Northern Ireland winter staycation ideas at the National Trust

-Credit: (Image: National Trust / Mike Henton)
-Credit: (Image: National Trust / Mike Henton)


For those planning a staycation in Northern Ireland over the winter months - why not consider staying at a National Trust property?

It has holiday cottages, dog friendly options, campsites and caravan parks, the Causeway Hotel, and even properties close together available, meaning there's an option for everyone!

We've listed a few for you to check out for some inspiration:

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Causeway Hotel

The Causeway Hotel -Credit:National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor
The Causeway Hotel -Credit:National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor

If you'd like to explore the Giant’s Causeway in Co Antrim, you can’t stay any closer than the Causeway Hotel.

All 28 rooms here offer views of the Atlantic Ocean or a private terrace.

You can find a cosy corner in the bar lounge to warm up after exploring the coast, or enjoy wintry views across the Atlantic Ocean, overlooking Runkerry beach, in the hotel's restaurant.

Bluebell Cottage

Bluebell Cottage -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton
Bluebell Cottage -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton

Bluebell Cottage is a traditional stone farm cottage complete with wooden sliding sash windows and an open fire.

It's one in a collection of courtyard cottages on the Crom estate, a tranquil landscape of islands, woodland and historical ruins, next to Lough Erne in Co Fermanagh.

It sleeps three guests, and larger groups can also book neighbouring Willow Cottage, sleeping three, and Alder Cottage, sleeping two.

Castle Ward Caravan Park

Castle Ward Caravan Park -Credit:National Trust Images/Lee John Mann
Castle Ward Caravan Park -Credit:National Trust Images/Lee John Mann

Historical attractions and nature trails on the lough shore, a short walk from vibrant Strangford village in Co Down.

Castle Ward Caravan Park is near the many trails that criss-cross the Castle Ward estate, once known for its eccentric owners and mansion house, and now famous as Winterfell in Game of Thrones

If you want to brave the cold, you can paddle calm waters by canoe or kayak to spot seals, porpoises and otters as well as many sea birds.

The Potter's Cottage

The Potter's Cottage
The Potter's Cottage -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton

In the farmyard at Castle Ward in Co Down, this dog-friendly, stone cottage has Strangford Lough and miles of footpaths on the doorstep.

It sleeps four guests, with two dogs also welcome. There are white-washed stone walls, small peeping windows and a roaring fire to welcome you after a busy day of exploring.

Bishop's Gate Lodge

Bishop's Gate Lodge
Bishop's Gate Lodge -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton

A gothic one-bedroom gate lodge in Coleraine on the coastal estate of Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne which sleeps two.

The clifftop landscape at The Temple which is just a mile walk away is steeped in history and nature, with gardens, historic buildings and sweeping views.

The gate lodge has a woodburning stove for cosy evenings in the sitting room.

Crom Campsite

Camping at Crom -Credit:National Trust Images/John Millar
Camping at Crom -Credit:National Trust Images/John Millar

This loughside camping escape is miles from anywhere, and has islands, wildlife trails and castle ruins to discover.

Located on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in Co Fermanagh where you can park up and spend your days exploring by foot, bike or boat.

Featuring tents and pods, and up to two dogs are welcome per pitch.

There's a tea-room so you can grab breakfast, lunch or snacks, which is handy as this location is miles from the nearest town, shop or pub.

Strand House

Strand House -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton
Strand House -Credit:National Trust / Mike Henton

Stay steps from the beach in a coastal cottage right in the heart of the Glens of Antrim.

This option sleeps five, and it's a stone's throw from a sandy beach and has sea views from many of the rooms.

Families, history enthusiasts and walkers will love the location, and you may even recognise the dramatic landscape surrounding the cottage from the Game of Thrones.

You can explore all options, check availability and book on The National Trust website here.

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