Treat yourself to a standout stay at these luxury hotels in Belfast

The luxurious Merchant Hotel is situated in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, a trendy neighbourhood full of chic bars and quirky boutiques. After something different? This Grade A-listed building has lots of amenities to test out, from a gym with an open-air rooftop hot tub to a lively jazz bar. Once you’ve checked in, go straight to The Spa, a relaxation centre with therapeutic lighting and quality treatments using Heaven Skincare, CosMedix and Darphin products. Relieve tension with a warm bamboo massage or a detoxifying wrap, or simply relax with a herbal tea in the hydrotherapy area‘s whirlpool, rock sauna and aroma steam room.

The hotel’s Great Room Restaurant is one of Belfast’s most impressive. Its Victorian interior has a stunning glass cupola, Ireland’s biggest chandelier and a rich colour palette of gold, black and deep red. The cuisine, meanwhile, brings together top-quality ingredients from local suppliers. To really indulge, sample small plates such as seared scallops with cauliflower puree and roasted quail with orange from the à la carte menu.

When you’re ready to hit the hay, your sleek Art Deco-inspired or traditional Victorian bedroom is waiting. Snuggle up under a velvet throw and feel spoilt in a generously sized space decorated in silk curtains, bespoke furnishings and period artworks.

For a date night with a difference, base yourself at the quirky Malmaison Belfast in the city centre. (It’s conveniently located just a 4 minute walk from Victoria Square’s high-street shops and a 20 minute walk to the historic Titanic Quarter). Check in to a standard or superior double and make the most out of the roomy king-sized bed, power shower and lounge-worthy sofas. Pour yourself a gin from the dedicated minibar and relax with a glossy mag. Sleek rooms are decorated in neutral earthy tones and subtle prints like paisley and checks on walls and throws.

Make a beeline for the Malmaison Brasserie, a bright and airy space featuring cosy booths, brushed steel tables and a menu of contemporary favourites. You can sample dishes as diverse as curried tiger prawns and West Country lamb here. If it’s an extra-special occasion, sign up for the hotel’s private dining service, where the friendly Mal team will look after your every need.

Continue the fun with a cocktail from the hotel’s Malchemy drinks list, full of innovative recipes like the Bee Have, a fusion of gin and honey, or the Fletcher’s Porridge, which is filled with oats! These options are inspired by the hotel‘s sister locations across the British Isles; test out the Irish Maid with Belfast’s Bushmills whiskey for a homegrown option.

Ten Square Hotel seamlessly fuses a genuinely welcoming atmosphere with a chic boutique-inspired style – something that you’ll notice throughout. The design cues echo 1920s style, with elegant interiors in shades of black, white and grey. Mid-century modern wooden sideboards and fittings add a touch of interest. Relax in the bar on quilted benches, or head to the rooftop terrace for a crisp glass of pinot with a view of Belfast.

The hotel is steps away from City Hall – so it’s pretty central – and less than a 5 minute walk to cosy cafés and lively bars. After a day out, rest up in your Classic or Executive Room, sinking into a super-king size bed with extra-soft bedding and pillows. You’ll notice the colour scheme here is similar to the rest of the hotel, combining crisp white with soft grey and the odd pop of teal on blankets or furnishings.

Ready for dinner? Order a house special at Jospers, like a juicy steak grilled to perfection in a specialist Spanish charcoal oven for a succulent and smokey taste. If seafood or vegetarian meals are more your thing, you might be tempted by dishes like pan-fried seabass with red pepper coulis or spicy tomato and goat’s cheese gnocchi.