Belfast

Gone are the days when Belfast was a place to mull over political murals before beating a swift retreat to the fabled sights of the Antrim Coast. Northern Ireland's capital is now a draw in itself thanks to a slow-but-sure blossoming of locally grown restaurants, innovative bars and downright fun places to sleep after indulging. Many hotels are dining destinations in their own right, but if yours is light on services - as is the concept at many of the city's newer high-design, low budget offerings in this lively student-populated city, you'll be toddling distance from a comfy coffee spot or restaurant where local ingredients drive inventive menus.

- By Sarah Barrell

Best for country living

CULLODEN ESTATE & SPA

This 92-room landmark in the Holywood hills grew out of a Baronial-style 19thcentury bishop’s palace. The setting, just 10 minutes’ drive from the city, remains palatial: contemporary sculptures from Ireland’s Gormleys art dealers punctuate 12-acre gardens sloping towards Belfast Lough and the estate’s own pub; oil paintings, tapestries and chandeliers define interior decor. A hotel since the 1960s, rolling renovations continue to update, adding wings, enlarging guest rooms (all with King Coil Cloud beds), and revamping the sizeable spa and modest pool. The original creaky-floor building around reception is most atmospheric, while newer waterfront suites offer VIP lough views. The country estate setting is Culloden’s main draw, though, plus top-notch tasting menus loaded with local produce served in its opulent dining room.

ROOMS: From £200. cullodenestateandspa.com

Best for panoramic views

GRAND CENTRAL