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Where to Stay in County Antrim

Where to Stay in County Antrim

County Antrim Northern Ireland, UK Travel Guide

Diverse Lodging Choices

Urban & Traditional Stays

  • Hostels:

    Economical dormitory-style and private rooms, mainly in Belfast and some coastal communities like Portrush. Great for meeting people.

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

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

  • Hotels:

    From budget chains to mid-range and luxury options, with most premium 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 family or group travel, available via platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, offering more space plus food preparation facilities.

  • Camping & Outdoor:

    Places to camp 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.
  • Typical urban precautions apply.

Lisburn Road / Malone Road South Belfast

Benefits
  • Quieter atmosphere with good features.
  • Close to Queen's University, Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens.
  • A very safe, affluent residential area.
Considerations
  • Slightly farther from the primary 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 vacation spot 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

Reserving ahead 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 small communities or Belfast.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, Sep-Oct): Reserving ONE-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 terms are not the same 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 additionally have presence.
Hostel Specialists:
  • Hostelworld is a leading guide 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 plus local perspectives.

Coastal Appeal:

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

Recommended Stays for Every Traveler

Discover top picks customized 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.

  • Budget dorms 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 a fancy experience in Belfast.

  • 5-star accommodations such as the Grand Central Hotel, Fitzwilliam Hotel, or The Merchant Hotel.
  • Boutique places like The Harrison Chambers of Distinction also offer a high-end option.
Properties with Historical Significance

Immerse yourself in history.

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

Family-Friendly Accommodations

  • Hotels with Family Rooms:

    Many hotels are family-friendly with purpose-built room configurations.

  • Self-Apartments With kitchens & Cottages:

    Provide space and kitchen facilities, ideal for families.

  • Holiday Parks:

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

  • Properties with Green Space:

    Look for accommodations with gardens or very near to parks.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels:

    Great for social opportunities and meeting fellow travelers.

  • Guesthouses:

    Present a friendly 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 rooms in a hotel.
  • Can be more cost-effective for extended trips.
Cost-Effectiveness

Self-food service 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 you reserve.

Accessibility Features

Check with properties about specific accessibility accommodations.

Local Recommendations

Hosts at B&Bs often offer excellent local dining plus recreation suggestions.