25 November: The season of wrapping up and staying snug is here. Christmas and New Year is a special time, so if you’re planning a short break to make memories or looking forward to spending time with friends and family, Northern Ireland has some perfect spots for a cosy getaway.
Belfast becomes a magical place, with twinkling lights and lively pubs to escape into as the nights turn cooler. Work up an appetite with a trip around Victoria Square shopping centre, before heading to the famous Belfast Christmas Market at City Hall. Kick off the season of indulgence with a night of fine dining in one of the city’s many restaurants or enjoy cocktails at the Bullitt Hotel to start a festive night out in the Cathedral Quarter.
Alternatively, head to the Maiden City of Derry~Londonderry, and kick off your festive celebrations with a trip to the Walled City Market at Christmas or enjoy the charm of St Columb’s Magic Kingdom followed by a performance at The Playhouse or Millenium Forum.
Discover Northern Ireland has created this list of hotels, many of which are just two hours from Dublin, with Christmas experiences that you should check out this winter.
· The 5* Merchant Hotel is beautifully dressed and ready to welcome you for a Christmas break to remember. A wealth of indulgent experiences including festive banquets, sumptuous overnight stays, seasonal afternoon teas and fabulous celebrations will ensure your Christmas is truly magical. With its roaring fire and scents of whiskey and cinnamon in The Cocktail Bar, The Merchant Hotel is the perfect place to be when the weather outside is frightful. Visit www.themerchanthotel.com/
The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast
· A stone’s throw from the Belfast Christmas Markets and next door to the Grand Opera House, if panto is your thing, the 5* Fitzwilliam Hotel is ideally placed for a magical stay in the city. Enjoy elegant dining experiences including Christmas Day dinner and you will be blown away by their gorgeous festive décor – which makes the most magical backdrop for all your Christmas photos. Visit www.fitzwilliamhotelbelfast.
Galgorm Resort & Spa, County Antrim
· Festive splendour is what you will find this Christmas as you unwind and refresh at the 4* Galgorm Resort & Spa, home to the fabulous Thermal Village. We all deserve some wining, dining and pampering and this is a phenomenal setting to enjoy all those things. Be sure to check out the Christmas Stay and Spa packages or themed Christmas dining and Afternoon Tea. Visit www.galgorm.com/christmas.
Corick House Hotel and Spa, County Tyrone
· Set among meandering streams and winding country roads in County Tyrone, the 4* Corick House Hotel and Spa offers guests the finest in tradition and hospitality. There are a range of planned family events including Santa Sundays, Festive Afternoon Teas and Party Nights with Live Entertainment. Visit www.corickcountryhouse.com/
Clandeboye Lodge, Bangor, County Down
· A warm-hearted Christmas welcome is waiting for you at the 4* Clandboye Lodge. Enjoy a top class stay with mulled wine, gingerbread and festive dining experiences, made with the finest local produce. The team at Clandeboye Lodge Hotel are running a special Christmas offer on their gift cards and vouchers from the start of November until December 31. When you spend £100 on a gift voucher you will receive a £10 voucher for you to spend there and they will also donate to their local food bank, Storehouse North Down, on your behalf. Visit www.clandeboyelodge.com/
Killeavy Castle Estate, County Armagh
· Step into the mystical, rural setting of Killeavy Castle Hotel and enjoy the finest fresh seasonal food, quality wine and festive entertainment. No need to leave the luxury of the estate with onsite woodland walks, spa treatments and dining options providing you with the opportunity to rest, recuperate and celebrate. Idyllically situated in the heart of Slieve Gullion, you can explore this historic area and visit local festive events before returning to the cosy surroundings of the hotel for the night. Visit www.killeavycastle.com/
Lough Erne Resort, County Fermanagh
· Hear the crackle of open fires and have your dinner cooked by top chef, Noel McMeel for a Christmas treat to remember in the 5* Lough Erne Resort in the Fermanagh Lakelands. A Thai Spa, two golf courses and walking trails around the 600-acre peninsula means you have everything you need for Christmas relaxation. Be sure to check out their current promotion on gift vouchers – for a limited period, they will gift an extra £15 with every £100 spend. Plus, for every £100 you spend on resort gift vouchers there is one complimentary entry to The Magic of Christmas Giveaway which includes a Family Trip to Lapland or Couples Trip to the Northern Lights in 2023. Visit www.lougherneresort.com/
Everglades Hotel, Derry-Londonderry
· Have yourself a ‘Derry Little Christmas’ this year with the Hastings Group. The 4* Everglades Hotel has been hosting Christmas in the Walled City since 1993 and certainly know how to treat their guests. Each room has been tastefully furnished and decorated to get you in a festive spirit. Festive packages include party nights and Santa Sunday Buffets…and don’t forget that famous ‘Derry Girls’ Afternoon Tea. Visit www.hastingshotels.com/
