Experience buzzing Belfast at one of these cosy B&Bs

The success of Titanic Guesthouse is partly due to its prime location. Historic murals decorate roads adjacent to the hotel, illustrating the city’s poignant backstory and flourishing arts scene. If you’re into naval history, the Titanic Museum, a 30 minute walk away, charts one of the most well-known passages in Belfast’s past (and it’s directly on the site of the workspace where the infamous vessel was built). The guesthouse itself is set in a Victorian building that was once owned by a director of the local shipyards.

At the end of a day navigating your way through Belfast’s bustling streets, sink into a spacious tub surrounded by the calming hues of the cream-coloured tiles in your en-suite bathroom. Upscale toiletries are provided to inject a touch of luxury into your break. Dry off in a serene cream bedroom with plush beige carpets, and large windows that lend a bright, roomy feel in the daytime, then snuggle up in bed.

Titanic Guesthouse has recently been refurbished, adding a well-equipped kitchen so you can make your own meals. Save money on eating out by creating a home-made dinner, perhaps using produce picked up from artisan suppliers at St George’s Market. If you’re travelling with a large group, choose one of the hotel’s rental properties, fully furnished accommodations that fit up to eight people comfortably. Bloomfield House features memory foam mattresses to rest on, a private living room with a leather couch to socialise on and a handy dining area for family meals. Alternatively, opt for Templemore Apartment and admire the black and white photographs that adorn the living room wall from floor to ceiling.

From the red-brick Victorian exterior to the 1930s New York loft stylings of the guest rooms, Maryville House transports visitors to a time gone by. Step into an attic room and spread out on a carefully custom-made four-poster bed, sinking into the plush linens and letting the sophisticated ambience lull you to sleep. Alternatively, curl up in a Prohibition-era wing chair and allow the smooth melodies of the freestanding vinyl record player carry your soul away. The adjoining attic room is decorated with luxurious faux-fur throws and eye-catching brass beds for a taste of the high life.

From refreshing fruit salads to hearty Irish fry-ups, morning meals at Maryville House are all about variety. Sample local delicacies such as yoghurt from nearby Clandeboye or opt for international cuisine including treats such as syrup-smothered French toast. Breakfasts are cooked to order and helpful staff are on hand to assist with any special requests you may have; vegetarians, for example, can savour scrumptious dishes such as spinach and mushroom omelettes.

One of Maryville House’s most striking features is its classic English tearoom, so make sure to indulge in a spot of afternoon tea here. The white marble fireplace and shimmering silver of the candlesticks and sandwich trays set the mood for an opulent snack. A wide range of sandwiches is available, comprising of favourite flavour combinations such as mouth-watering prawns with tangy Marie Rose sauce. Delectable pastries, baked on the premises each day, are served to finish, along with your choice of loose-leaf tea or barista-grade coffee – ideal for recharging your batteries after a morning of sightseeing.

Wake up ready for a day of exploring at Harpers bed and breakfast and head downstairs for a hearty meal to sustain you until lunch. Sunlight filters through the bay windows built into the handsome red-brick facade, illuminating the elegant dining room and reflecting across a glittering chandelier while you eat. Cereals and energy bars are on offer, as well as sweet scones and fresh bread, so you can create a morning spread to energise yourself.

This Victorian building is located a 15 minute walk from the hub of Belfast’s thriving downtown, meaning you won’t have far to go to take in some of the capital’s most popular sites. A short stroll brings you to both the Central and Botanic train stations, opening up the entire city and its scenic hinterland. Take time out to explore the lush vegetation of Queen’s University gardens and the 19th-century auditorium of the Grand Opera House, Belfast’s first listed building. Amble home beneath the glorious reds, oranges and yellows of the setting sun afterwards to unwind in your spacious room.

The soft feeling of Egyptian cotton against your skin, the plush texture of luxurious carpet at your feet, and the enticing warmth of heated tiles as you step into the bathroom – the guest rooms here are designed with pure comfort in mind. Decorated in inviting browns and striking greys, each has its own seating area for some peaceful relaxation as the day draws to a close. If you’d prefer some company, gather with friends on the communal lounge’s vintage-style tan sofa and bask in the heat from the black-and-gold fireplace.

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From the lush vegetation of the Queen’s University botanical gardens – picture climbing vines, leafy ferns and kaleidoscopic birds of paradise – to the lakeside promenades of Victoria Park, Belfast is a haven for dogs and their two-legged companions. So why not spoil your furry friend with a visit to Namaste Lodge? The owners of this bed and breakfast have three canines of their own, so your pooch will be in good company. If you don’t have a dog, take one of the doggy residents for a walk to Ormeau Park. This municipal green space, the oldest of its kind in Belfast, is just a 4 minute stroll away.

The soothing aquas, warm blues and crisp whites of the in-room decor, coupled with the Eastern-inspired wall art and emerald flowers, makes a stay at Namaste Lodge both a rejuvenating and peaceful experience. Embrace the zen ambience by sinking into comfy couches, curling up on cosy armchairs or gazing up at the stars through your skylight. Family rooms are available for groups and there are also free laundry facilities– ideal if you’re packing light.

Start your day off with a light but energising continental breakfast. Think fresh breads, pastries and fruit, as well as steaming cups of tea and coffee, all eaten in the family-style kitchen. Planning on leaving early for a flight or sleeping late for extra relaxation? Your meal will still be waiting for you; in fact, you can even opt for breakfast to go.