Top Rated Accommodations in Derry

A good-looking Victorian property that clearly shows the benefits of excellent restoration work, Arkle House has lost none of its original charm. It is only 10 minutes drive from the city centre and its proximity to the border makes it an ideal location from which to explore Donegal. Close to shops and a local bar, it has the added feature of a large and well-maintained garden to accentuate the relaxed and tranquil setting. Arkle House offers genuine value for money. Ask about weekend deals. The parking is private. If you want to stay nearer town, you should ask about the owner's other B & B, Acorn House.

The Beech Hill Country House Hotel is a beautiful period country house accentuated by lush, extensive gardens. Located on the main Belfast-Derry route, two miles out of town, this sophisticated house is a grand affair, with origins in the 17th Century. The interior echoes historically authentic values. The furnishings have aesthetic qualities yet are inviting as well as comfortable and all the rooms are individually decorated to mirror the hotel's four-star rating. The Ardmore Restaurant deserves its good reputation for fine food and the perspective from its windows. A fitness suite with steam-room and jacuzzi is on-site. For more information, talk to Michelle Simpson, the Marketing Manager.

Joan Pyne's lovingly restored Georgian guesthouse has the distinction of being the most centrally located B & B in the city. The immediate area around it could be said to be the most architecturally interesting in Derry. The building itself - a 19th-century townhouse - is of considerable historical interest. Visitors will find books and a television in each comfortably furnished room. Operated by the same family that runs Merchant's House, Saddler's House guarantees excellent quality and service, with courtesy home-made jam and fresh coffee provided. (The owner also rents an apartment on Crawford Square, which is perhaps a more independent alternative to her guesthouses.) Next door at #34 is Ogmios, a great store to buy Irish crafts, cards and music CDs. This is also restaurant land, with at least four good ones in the adjoining streets.

A haven of peace and tranquillity, this newly-built house nestles amid the trees of its own private grounds, spanning over one acre, in Londonderry’s rolling picturesque countryside, just 3 miles from Derry city centre. Tastefully furnished in warm, relaxing colours, Groarty Manor provides 6 comfortable en suite rooms, one of which is set on the ground floor and offers disabled access and disabled bathroom facilities. The residence is within the grounds of the 200-year-old Groarty House, which boasts a sun-flooded conservatory with panoramic views across Derry and the surrounding areas. The house has been designed to be environmental friendly. It is heated with a 50 kw log burner and solar panels. The bedrooms are individually zoned with their own heat sensors.

On the banks of the River Foyle, the modern 4-star Everglades Hotel has free on-site parking, a bar and an award-winning restaurant. It overlooks the rugged hills of County Donegal. Hastings Everglades is next to a golf course, and a 5-minute drive from the centre of Derry. Everglades is also within reach of beautiful beaches and the superb Sperrin Mountains. Fresh local ingredients are prepared in the award-winning Satchmo’s Restaurant. You can also enjoy a snack or a pint of Guinness beside the fire in the Library Bar. Why not stay for Sunday Lunch in the beautiful Grand Ballroom?

With an award-winning restaurant and leisure centre, this 4-star, family-run hotel offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. Best Western White Horse Hotel is a 15-minute drive from Derry centre, just 3 miles from Derry Airport. All rooms at White Horse Hotel have tea/coffee facilities and a private modern bathroom with a hairdryer. The leisure club features a large swimming pool and fully equipped gym. Guests can relax in the sauna or steam room, and there is also a children’s pool and aerobics studio. 68 Clooney Restaurant serves a modern British menu, featuring seasonal and local produce. 68 Clooney Bar offers classic cocktails and light meals, and has live music on weekends. The hotel is centrally located for exploring North West Ireland, and is within easy reach of Derry's ancient walls, the North Antrim coast and the Sperrin Mountains.