This grand Gothic country mansion was built in 1876 as a palace for the Bishops of Down. Set in 12 acres of gardens full of specimen trees, including California redwoods, this Scottish-baronial manor of hand-cut stone is full of traditional detail. It overlooks the Antrim coast in idyllic surroundings. Just five miles north of the city center, it is a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
A liveried doorman welcomes guests to a small reception that opens into a sumptuous lobby of gilt furnishings and pictures. The main lounge affords great views, and the roaring hearth in the Chancel bar is a favorite gathering spot. A network of public rooms includes a bar and dozens of comfortable armchairs.
In back is the Mitre restaurant, where Gothic-Persian decor provides an interesting setting for an Irish menu featuring local produce and the chef's renowned venison rump steak. It also offers waiter service for afternoon tea and drinks. The Cultra bistro and bar is in a separate building in the garden and presents a more informal atmosphere for drinks and dining. Zest is a small poolside restaurant and snack bar in the spa serving light meals, juices and coffee.
The spa area is exceptional in Northern Ireland and has been recently refurbished: It is bright, spacious and well designed. The Romanesque indoor pool and spa includes a steam room, solarium, whirlpool, loungers and seven treatment rooms for massage, beauty treatments and aromatherapy. The fitness center has state-of-the-art equipment with 25 workstations and instructors on hand.
A craft and jewelry cabinet displays the work of a local designer and items may be purchased from reception. Swimming and leisurewear are on sale in the spa and car rental is available at reception.
The Stuart Suite is a large conference and exhibition venue with vehicle access. It can host 700 guests and has a separate entrance and its own bar and cloakroom. There are eight additional conference and boardrooms including the Cumberland Suite, which can seat 120 guests for dinner and also has its own bar. A business center provides secretarial support and a wide range of audio-visual equipment. There is ample parking on the grounds, and a helipad serves guests with pressing schedules.
Standard rooms are well furnished with matching floral drapes and spread. Rooms have adequate closet space, table and floor lamps, potted plants and an armchair. There are twin and double bed options, 28-inch TVs (being replaced with plasma screens at inspection), a DVD loan system, coffeemaker with grounds and instant coffee, voice mail, WiFi throughout, trouser press and laundry service. No minibars are in the rooms.
Baths vary in size but all are marble-tiled with combined tubs and showers in standard rooms. Neutrogena toiletries are used throughout. An exotic but pricey bath menu is available, prepared with a wide range of oils and treatment options along with champagne, canapes or chocolates, and rose petals. All rooms have garden views but those on the north side have the best views across Belfast Lough.
The hotel has 20 smoke-free rooms and one wheelchair-accessible room. Pets are not allowed. Room service runs round the clock but is restricted after 10:30 pm; the late-night menu still includes such hot dishes as pasta and curry. Some staff are a little aloof.
This stunning, elegant and secluded country mansion is one of the most attractive hotels in Northern Ireland. It has a traditional country house ambience but is rather formal. Its location, service and facilities surpass its Belfast partner hotel (the Europa) and the overall experience is more exclusive and refined than what guests find at the Hilton.
