It was remarked for its live music, bespoke tastings and pretty renovated rooms
A Co Antrim hotel has been named Northern Ireland’s ‘Best Place to Stay’ for 2026.
The Times and The Sunday Times has revealed their “definitive list of the 50 Best Places to Stay” from across the UK.
Harbourview Hotel in Carnlough has been crowned the best place to stay in Northern Ireland this year.
Located outside Ballymena, the judges praised Ireland’s first whisky hotel for its “live music, bespoke tastings and pretty renovated rooms”.
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The guide says guests can expect to enjoy “refurbished rooms”, and can immerse in “200 whiskeys, an on-site whiskey shop, bespoke tastings, and a whiskey-fuelled food menu.”
The guide is split into ten region and there are also winners in five different categories: Foodie, Family-friendly, Great value, Grown-up getaway, and Pubs with rooms.
The guide focuses on the “things that really matter”, hotels with the essentials of comfort, great service and value, as well as personality and warmth.
Claire Irvin, Head of Travel of The Times and The Sunday Times, said: “The highly anticipated unveiling of this year’s Best Places To Stay awards arrives like a breath of much-needed fresh air.
“It lands amid the tremors of global uncertainty and a winter that has felt uniquely, relentlessly grey.
“This list is as celebratory as the judging was uncompromising; our criteria remain fixed, even as our readers’ focus on genuine value sharpens.
“And while what constitutes ‘affordable’ and ‘worth it’ is subjective, in a world of rising costs, we know that every break must do more than simply tempt you – it must unequivocally earn its place on your calendar. But it helps that 22 out of the 50 come in at or under £200.
“Our readers are fortunate enough to enjoy multiple escapes a year, yet they are savvy enough to know that UK hospitality is becoming an increasingly expensive indulgence.
“When,even in turbulent times, international destinations are so easily reached, home-grown hotels have to fight harder for your attention. Fortunately, they are meeting that challenge with creativity, ingenuity, passion and brilliance. While the rates vary, every entry shares a singular commitment to the excellence that your time – and your investment – demands.”
You can find the full Best Places to Stay list here
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