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County Antrim

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About County Antrim

County Antrim is a stunning part of Northern Ireland that is awash with glorious scenery. Its glacier-shaped glens and numerous waterfalls spring to mind, along with vast expanses of grasslands, all finished with a coastline that alternates between dark and rugged rocks and sandy, sweeping bays. And on the very edge the incredible Giant’s Causeway. Our pick of the best places to stay in County Antrim includes farm stays, B&Bs, converted castles and country houses, seaside retreats, and a rather grand spa hotel.

This is a hugely varied landscape and not surprisingly appeals to a wide range of travellers — walkers and hikers, fisher-folk, surfers, divers, families, lovers of Irish culture and traditions... But one of the major groups of visitors is those who are on a pilgrimage to destinations used in the filming of Game of Thrones. From Ballintoy Harbour, used for Pike and the Iron Islands, to the Caves of Cushendun, where Melisandre gave birth to a shadow-child.

The fantastic sight of the Giant’s Causeway is one of the region's great treasures, but don't miss the coastline around Fair Head, which has some of the same remarkable basaltic columns, Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle and Colin Mountain, for its cairns. Bushmills, which is known for its whiskey distilleries, and pretty, popular, port-side Portrush are some of the best places to stay in County Antrim if you’re looking for a small centre and base. If you’re looking for lovely beaches we recommend looking at Ballycastle, Cushendun and Larne.

The Best Places to Stay in County Antrim

For a golf and spa resort

  • The Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is a large, and luxurious, spa hotel, set right next to a river, on 163 acres of mature woodlands just outside Ballymena. As well as impressive facilities, there’s an impressive array of rooms, plus private cabins, shepherd’s huts, cottages and lodges. If you want your own hot tub, that’s an option, and there are all sorts of romantic upgrades, as well as family-centric ones. The spa offers five outdoor hot tubs, two saunas, indoor and outdoor pools and a hydrotherapy pool. There’s also a gym, a choice of four dining options, tennis courts, championship golf course and opportunities to go fishing or horse riding.

For a Countryside Escape

  • Ballylagan Organic Farm has four guest rooms and a private, self-catering cottage, filled with rustic antiques and cosy, sitting and dining rooms. The food served is organic, local produce, but it’s quite gourmet in style as well as being fresh and wholesome. Families will do well in the self-catering cottage.
  • Ardtara Country House is an elegantly symmetrical country house, with lots of large windows — perfect for admiring the picturesque grounds. There are nine guest rooms, all uniquely decorated in classic country house style with nice antiques, soft fabrics, and tasteful art. The location is quiet and secluded, and the restaurant excellent.

For Couples

  • Overlooking Portrush harbour, Pier 39 is a small and charming B&B with a nautical spin, and light, airy rooms, the best rooms of which boast a private terrace. The breakfasts are indulgent, and you’re within a very pleasant stroll of some excellent bars and restaurants.

For Families

  • Ballygally Castle is every bit the ‘proper’ castle, complete with fairytale turrets worthy of Rapunzel. Its interiors are more contemporary than the exterior style, and while each of the 54 rooms and suites varies in size, they’ve all decorated with simple style and comfort in mind. The Family Suites are a good size, and the restaurant has a hearty kids’ menu, alongside its main menu which features plenty of local produce. Kids are also welcome in the castle’s walled garden. And of course you’re just across the road from a beautiful beach.
  • The Fullerton Arms is a charmingly traditional pub-with-rooms in the pretty coastal village of Ballintoy. There are just 13 rooms and suites, including family rooms which sleep up to six. All of them are decorated with great contemporary style. Downstairs in the pub there’s a hearty Irish menu and a great range of drinks.

For a Countryside Escape

  • At Bushmills Inn there’s a friendly mixing of locals and tourists, with golfing holidaymakers as well as those here for the Giant’s Causeway. The award-winning restaurant is part of the draw, but the courtyard is charming and the atmosphere convivial. There are 41 rooms and suites, wood-panelled or white, with antiques and vintage pieces. 

Best B&Bs

  • Portrush’s Blackrock House is an impeccably designed adults only B&B. Each of the three rooms has wonderful sea views, a pleasant mix of antiques and contemporary pieces and a white and soft grey colour scheme. There's a separate self-catering apartment overlooking the harbour, for those looking for a more independent or longer stay.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Belfast Airport is in Aldergrove, which is in County Antrim. If you’re travelling to Antrim itself, it’s a 15 minute bus or taxi journey from the airport, or just over half an hour if you’re arriving into Belfast by rail. If you’re heading towards the northern coastline or the Giant’s Causeway, you need to aim for about Bushmills, which you can get to on a bus from Belfast, or towards Portrush, which you can reach by train from Belfast and Antrim.
  • If you want to hire one we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • If you’re hoping to see County Antrim in the nicest possible weather, the best time to visit is between late spring and early summer. This part of Northern Ireland has mild summers and cool winters, the regulating power of the Gulf Stream ensures temperatures are never too extreme, but it does catch quite a bit of squally rain in off the Atlantic. Spring is pretty with wildflowers, and if you wait until autumn you’ll see colourful foliage. Even winter has its appeals, especially if you like windswept coastal walks, atmospheric mountain views, and roaring pub fires afterwards!

Still not sure where to stay?

Weather

Monthly Weather in County Antrim

Best Hotels in County Antrim

  • Ballylagan Organic Farm Ballyclare, County Antrim 4 rooms from $122

    Country Escape  -  Set on a lovely farm in County Antrim, this place is definitely for people who are looking for fresh air and open space.
    Sights nearby  -  Take a day trip into Belfast and explore sights such as the Titanic Museum, the Falls Road and the Ulster Museum.
    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of lovely walking routes.
    Full of character
    RestaurantGardenParkingNo pets

    With pigs in the pens and sheep in the field, Ballylagan Organic Farm is exactly like its name suggests. The original farmhouse boasts four delightful rooms and there is the option of a self-catering cottage. Perfect for people looking for an immersive rural experience. See More

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  • Ballygally Castle Ballygally, County Antrim 54 rooms from $128

    Local exploring  -  Whether you want to visit the set of Game of Thrones, view (other) ancient castles, or go on hikes — there's plenty to do here
    Families  -  With family rooms, kids' menus, good pricing for children, and plenty of space — this is an easy choice for a family break
    Sights nearby  -  Visit nearby sights such as Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and Bushmills (the world’s oldest distillery)
    Great walks  -  The lovely Antrim Coast Road starts from near the property
    RestaurantGardenParking

    An ancient castle with contemporary interiors located on the coast 40-mins from Belfast. Rooms vary in size but each has had a complete overhaul leaving a simple, modern and fresh feel. The restaurant serves hearty local dishes and there's a pretty walled garden outside. Well priced and laidback. See More

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  • Fullerton Arms BALLYCASTLE, County Antrim 13 rooms from $128

    Families  -  Spacious family rooms sleep 4 or 6 and the vibe of the hotel is very laidback, making this a good choice for families
    Country Escape  -  With hearty cuisine, cosy rooms, and a spectacular rural setting on the coast — this is a perfect country escape
    Outstanding location  -  Overlooking a stunning harbour and rugged coastline that was the setting for Iron Islands in Game of Thrones
    Great walks  -  There is endless choice for scenic walks whether you want an amble or a full day hike
    RestaurantPet friendlyParking

    A traditional pub, turned boutique hotel, in a picture-perfect setting in the coastal village of Ballintoy. Rooms have a contemporary feel with dark green hues & simple pale wood furniture; the best have sea views. Traditional Irish cuisine in the pub is worthy of a visit alone. Rural perfection. See More

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  • Blackrock House Portrush 4 rooms from $141

    Active Holiday  -  Find a host of outdoor pursuits in the surrounding region.
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll along the scenic Portrush promenade and beach.
    Restrictions on children  -  Adult only
    Traditional
    ParkingNo pets

    An impeccably designed boutique B&B boasting a coastal position in Portrush. Accommodation mixes the old and new with polished wooden floors, a few select antiques, white-washed walls and soft grey hues. A charming base to discover the region. See More

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  • Ardtara Country House Upperlands, County Antrim 9 rooms from $152

    Country Escape  -  A beautiful country house tucked away amidst wodland and surrounded by some serious natural beauty.
    Fishing  -  Ardtara is close to a variety of good rivers and lakes and the Irish sea is only 45 minute drive away.
    Sights nearby  -  Make a trip to the nearby Dunlace Castle.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    An imposing country house set in picturesque grounds. Beautifully designed throughout mixing contemporary styles seamlessly alongside the houses original features. Chef-patron Ian Orr has created an inspired restaurant. The staff are delightful and surrounding countryside sublime. See More

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  • Pier 39 Portrush 4 rooms from $154

    Local exploring  -  Set by the coast in Portrush on the Causeway Coastal route, there's beaches, historic sights, golf, and walking to enjoy
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle, or Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
    Adult Only
    Full of character
    GardenParkingNo pets

    A charming small B&B in a spectacular location overlooking the sea in Portrush. Light and airy rooms have a distinctly nautical look and the best open onto private terraces. Indulgent breakfasts are served and, just steps away, are an exciting array of restaurants. Ideal for a coastal break. See More

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  • Bushmills Inn Bushmills 41 rooms from $243

    Local exploring  -  Packed with things to see from the stunning Giant’s Causeway to tours of the world's oldest distillery.
    Foodies  -  Enjoy the locally sourced award-winning cuisine on offer, in a charmingly old school setting.
    Sights nearby  -  Close to attractions such as Old Bushmills Distillery, The Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle.
    Restaurant  -  Award-winning restaurant. Each dish is crafted from traditional roots, but with a Bushmills twist.
    RestaurantGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Renowned inn offering genuine Irish hospitality and scrumptious food in its award-winning restaurant. Classic-chic bedrooms in neutral tones with four poster beds. A warren of little snugs and Wild West-esque gas bar create a cosy ambiance. A great choice for groups and families. See More

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  • Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort Co. Antrim, County Antrim 122 rooms from $282

    Spa breaks  -  The spa is the real lure with five outdoor hot tubs, two saunas, and a River House for lounging half on land and half over water
    Romantic Break  -  With romantic suites, private hot tubs, a spa, and fine dining — this is the perfect place for a romantic break
    Golf  -  Galgorm boasts a Championship Parkland course and a 6-hole Pitch & Putt as well as a Golf Academy
    Groups  -  Riverside Cabins, Cottage Suites, Shepherds Huts and Residence are ideal for groups or families
    TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParking

    A luxury riverside hotel & spa set in 163 acres of mature woodlands. A wide range of accommodation includes rooms, suites, & lodges which feel traditional yet luxurious. With an award-winning restaurant & a stand out spa that boasts outdoor hot tubs & a snow cabin, this promises a rejuvenating stay. See More

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