Ballygally Castle

The castle and hotel bring modern luxury together with centuries of history and a haunted twist. I stayed one night with a friend in a coastal deluxe room, and the whole visit was first class. Check-in was quick, the room clean and comfortable, and the view over Ballygally Bay was stunning. Staff were pleasant and helpful, and both dinner and breakfast were delicious. A great pick for a relaxing break with lovely scenery and fascinating history.

We didn’t spot any ghosts, but we did have the best Sticky Toffee Pudding of our two weeks in Northern Ireland and Ireland. We tried enough to feel that was a fair assessment. The room and view were great, and it was a much appreciated stop after a long day driving. If you’re planning to eat at the hotel restaurant, ask reception to book dinner, since getting a seat can be tricky otherwise. To be fair, they had warned us.

The views are super and the staff lovely, in a great location. I’d avoid the beefburger, though. The chips and chutney were good, but they only cook the burger well done, and it came out hard and not good. I had the steak sandwich last time and that was very good.

We had excellent service and fantastic food during a wind-whipped January weekend. The tower rooms are a little chilly at this time of year, though ours was toasty by evening. The frosted glass toilet door might disconcert some people. Considering the tower’s age, the modernisation works well and the small inconvenience was worth it. A good mix of old and new in a quieter stretch of the north coast, and just right for an atmospheric getaway.