Culloden Estate and Spa

Victorian grandiosity meets modern-day luxury in this Belfast hideaway

Residing high on the slopes of the Holywood Hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the County Antrim Coastline, lies the Culloden Estate and Spa – a majestic Gothic mansion, secluded by 12 acres of spectacular gardens and woodland.Built by William Robinson in 1876, Culloden House was once the official residence of the Lord Bishop of Down, Connor and Dromore – hence the hotel’s charming motto, ‘Built for a bishop, fit for a king’. Beautifully renovated for the modern world, the hotel effortlessly combines contemporary luxury with signature pieces from its illustrious past – pause for a moment by the stained-glass windows on the grand staircase, or admire the architect’s crest on the historical Glasslough sandstone. It was originally a two-storey villa with dressings of Scottish stone and a castellated entrance tower. An expanse of light, the bedrooms are spacious and welcoming, furnished with King Koil Cloud Beds.

With acres of luscious lawns to explore, a walk around the grounds is a must. Start your day with a full Irish breakfast at Vespers Restaurant, before taking a leisurely stroll (or bike ride) through the gardens and nearby coastal path. In the afternoon, pop into town for a spot of sightseeing – Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions are just 10 minutes away. Be sure to return to the Culloden Estate and Spa in time for afternoon tea, which the hotel elevates to an art form.

From massages to facials, manicures to pedicures, indulge in top-to-toe relaxation at The Spa at Culloden. ESPA treatments bring together aromatic and pure essential oils with powerful plant extracts and marine elements to guarantee a sensual, calming and deeply nourishing experience. Take a dip in the linear vitality pool – complete with garden views – or melt your stress away in the Tylarium, a combination of a sauna and steam room. For a truly luxurious moment, take advantage of the spa’s Spa-tisserie experience, a treatment or your choice followed by afternoon tea and a glass of champagne.

Showcasing views from dawn to dusk, the Lough Bar brings together the splendour of the estate’s grounds with the flavours of Northern Ireland. Indulge in homemade scones, served with Irish butter and County Down preserves, or delve into a sharing platter of locally sourced artisan cheeses for lunch. In the evening, indulge in the Bar’s selection of classic cocktails and gins. Then, of course, there’s the Culloden’s artfully curated afternoon tea – an unrivalled selection of cakes, pastries and finger sandwiches served with the finest tea blends.