Ballygally Castle - 4-Star Hotel in Larne

Built in 1625, Ballygally Castle is the only surviving 17th-century residence in Northern Ireland and sits directly on the Antrim Coast. The hotel has a famous Ghost Room and an atmospheric dungeon, with a Game of Thrones-themed door leading to the restaurant. Guests can explore the original castle tower and read about the building's 400-year history in the reception area.

The Garden Restaurant serves a menu built around locally sourced produce, including a seasonal salad with Kearney Blue Cheese and a signature roast salmon dish. Afternoon tea, awarded for its quality, is served in the garden-facing setting, and the Sunday carvery offers a wide selection of meats and desserts. The bar features a real fire and serves a Jawbox G&T, with live music events held on select evenings.

The Coastal Deluxe rooms offer panoramic sea views over Ballygally Bay, with elegant fabrics and a colour palette that complements the coastline. Superior Double Rooms include original beams and seating areas, while the Garden Suite provides extra space and direct views of the walled garden. All rooms have tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, and ESPA toiletries in the bathrooms.

The hotel sits on the Causeway Coastal Route, 2 miles from Cairndhu Golf Course and a 10-minute drive from Larne town and ferry terminal. Guests can walk to Ballygally Beach directly across the road, and the Giant's Causeway, Bushmills Distillery, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge are all within driving distance. The hotel offers free parking, electric vehicle charging points, and a secure car park opposite the entrance.

The hotel welcomes families with a children's play area in the garden, family-sized rooms, and a kids' meal menu in the restaurant. Ballygally Castle is a licensed wedding venue with a dedicated events coordinator and a Kintyre Room that accommodates up to 124 guests for receptions. The property also offers self-catering apartments with separate living areas and a welcome basket of local produce.

History: Only 17th-century residence in Northern Ireland, with a Ghost Room

Dining: The Garden Restaurant with local produce and award-winning afternoon tea

Rooms: Coastal Deluxe rooms with ocean views and original castle features

Location: Beachfront on the Causeway Coastal Route, near Giant's Causeway

Events: Wedding venue with capacity for 124 guests in the Kintyre Room

Access: Free parking, EV charging, and 40 minutes from central Belfast