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Where to Stay in County Antrim

Where to Stay in County Antrim

County Antrim Northern Ireland, Ireland Travel Guide

Diverse Lodging Choices

Urban & Traditional Stays

  • Hostels:

    Economical dorms and private rooms, mainly in Belfast and some coastal towns like Portrush. Great for social interaction.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) / Guesthouses:

    Common throughout rural and coastal areas, often including a traditional Irish breakfast. A personal, homely atmosphere.

  • Hotels:

    From budget chains to mid-range and luxury options, with most luxury hotels in Belfast.

  • Boutique Hotels:

    Smaller, stylish hotels with unique character, mainly in Belfast, featuring distinct design and personalized attention.

Unique & Outdoor Options

  • Unique Local Accommodation:

    High-quality B&Bs and guesthouses with local hosts present an authentic Northern Irish experience. Farm stays are a charming rural alternative.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Self-catering options, popular for families or groups, available via platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, offering more space and cooking facilities.

  • Camping & Outdoor:

    Campsites are available, especially along the coast (e.g., Causeway Coast Holiday Park). Glamping sites with yurts or pods offer comfortable outdoor stays.

  • Homestay/Community-Based Tourism:

    Many B&Bs convey a homestay-like feel, allowing guests to experience local life.

Where to Stay: Areas Defined

Each area is a distinct character, with various advantages and considerations.

Belfast City Centre

Benefits
  • Central location with superb transport.
  • Abundant dining, shopping, nightlife.
  • Close to major attractions.
  • Generally very safe in tourist areas.
Considerations
  • Can be lively, especially on weekends.
  • Higher accommodation rates.
  • Standard urban precautions apply.

Lisburn Road / Malone Road South Belfast

Benefits
  • Quieter atmosphere with good amenities.
  • Close to Queen's University, Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens.
  • A very safe, affluent residential area.
Considerations
  • Slightly further from main city attractions.
  • Public transport or taxi sometimes necessary.

Causeway Coast Towns Portrush, Portstewart, Ballycastle

Benefits
  • Proximity to Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
  • Scenic coastal drives.
  • Excellent base for exploring the north coast.
  • Generally safe, with a resort atmosphere.
Considerations
  • Can be very crowded and expensive in high season.
  • Quieter in off-season with some reduced business hours.

Glens of Antrim e.g., Cushendall, Cushendun

Benefits:

Tranquility, natural beauty, authentic rural experience. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Considerations:

Limited public transport; a car is typically necessary for thorough exploration. Fewer dining options.

Booking Your Stay

Advance booking is often a good approach, specifically during peak times, to secure preferred options and rates.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-August): Book 3-6 months ahead. Last-minute availability will be scarce and expensive, especially in popular coastal towns or Belfast.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, Sep-Oct): Booking 1-3 months ahead is advisable for good selection and value.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): More flexibility, but a few weeks ahead for popular Belfast hotels or holidays is still wise.
  • Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Rates rise significantly in high season and during major events. Weekends are generally more costly than weekdays in Belfast.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com are widely utilized and reliable.
  • Local Websites: Discover Northern Ireland (official tourism site) lists properties. Many B&Bs maintain their own sites for direct booking.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo present options from rooms to entire homes.
  • Negotiation & Policies: Walk-in rate negotiation is not common. Prices are fixed. Deposit and cancellation policies vary by provider; always confirm terms.

Specific Platforms for Hotel Chains & Budget Stays

Major Hotel Chains:
  • Consider IHG Hotels for various brands.
  • Premier Inn and Travelodge also have presence.
Hostel Specialists:
  • Hostelworld is a leading resource for budget accommodations.

Unique Stay Insight

House Sitting:

Explore platforms like TrustedHousesitters for long-term, free accommodation in exchange for pet/house care.

Family-Run Establishments:

Many B&Bs are family-operated, providing a distinct, personal welcome and local insights.

Coastal Appeal:

Coastal towns like Portrush and Portstewart are especially popular for summer holidays, with various holiday park options.

Recommended Stays for Every Traveler

Discover top picks tailored for various budget levels and travel styles across County Antrim.

Budget-Friendly & Mid-Range

Economical Choices

For travelers seeking value, several excellent options present themselves.

  • Hostels in Belfast city center (e.g., Global Village) are very economical.
  • Family-run guesthouses slightly outside main tourist hubs also hold good value.
  • Campsites along the coast present the cheapest options for outdoor enthusiasts.
Quality Mid-Range

Find comfort and good amenities without a premium expense.

  • Numerous quality B&Bs operate throughout the county (e.g., in Bushmills, Ballycastle, or Cushendall).
  • Many 3-4 star hotels in Belfast also present good value.

Premium & Specific Traveler Needs

Luxury Stays

For an upscale experience in Belfast.

  • 5-star hotels like the Grand Central Hotel, Fitzwilliam Hotel, or The Merchant Hotel.
  • Boutique hotels like The Harrison Chambers of Distinction also present an upscale option.
Properties with Historical Significance

Immerse yourself in history.

  • The Europa Hotel in Belfast, known for its history and regeneration.
  • Many B&Bs operate in historic buildings, adding character to your stay.

Family-Friendly Accommodations

  • Hotels with Family Rooms:

    Many hotels cater to families with dedicated room configurations.

  • Self-Catering Apartments & Cottages:

    Provide space and kitchen facilities, ideal for families.

  • Holiday Parks:

    Coastal holiday parks often come with amenities for children, including play areas.

  • Properties with Green Space:

    Look for accommodations with gardens or close proximity to parks.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels:

    Great for social opportunities and meeting fellow travelers.

  • Bed & Breakfasts:

    Present a welcoming and safe environment for individuals.

  • Hotels with Single Rooms:

    Many hotels present comfortable single room options.

  • Group Tours:

    Joining group tours can lead to meeting other travelers.

Long-Stay Accommodations

Vacation Rentals

Apartments and cottages suit longer stays, feeling like a home away from home.

  • Kitchen facilities for self-catering.
  • More space compared to hotel rooms.
  • Can be more cost-effective for extended trips.
Cost-Effectiveness

Self-catering options typically lower expenses for extended periods.

  • Reduced dining out costs.
  • Laundry facilities available in many units.

Additional Considerations

Pet-Friendly Options

Some establishments welcome pets; check policies when booking.

Accessibility Features

Inquire directly with properties about specific accessibility accommodations.

Local Recommendations

Hosts at B&Bs often offer excellent local dining and activity suggestions.