The Most Luxurious Glamping Sites to Book in Northern Ireland
Rural and picturesque, Northern Ireland is a camper’s paradise, with sites scattered throughout the varied landscape. For those of you who want to connect with nature without all the clobber and discomfort that comes with the traditional tent-and-sleeping-bag set-up, these luxurious glamping sites in Northern Ireland, bookable with Culture Trip, may be more up your street.
Further.Space at Glenarm Castle, for sunrise sea views
Glamping
From a distance, the snug pods at this coastal glamping site look a bit like the semi-cylindrical huts you’ll see dotted across Northern Ireland’s pig farms. Thankfully, the sleeping conditions here are considerably more luxurious, with a double bed (plus a bunk for the kids), en-suite shower room and a mini kitchenette. The front of the pods are fully glazed, meaning every morning starts with shimmering views of the sea – just make sure you remember to wear the eye masks provided when you nod off, as there are no curtains to shield you from the sunrise. Spend your days between the beach at Glenarm and the castle’s grandly landscaped grounds, and evenings toasting marshmallows to charred, molten perfection around your private campfire.
Further.Space at Leitrim Lodge, for nature hikes
Glamping
Leitrim Lodge is another glampsite from the Further.Space team, only here, instead of waking to views of the sea, you’ll get sunrise over the Mourne Mountains. There are forests, fields and streams to explore nearby, and there are trails to take you up to the peak of Rocky Mountain (the one closest to the campsite). You’ll have your own campfire for cookouts under the stars, and you’re also just a short drive from pubs and restaurants in Hilltown, Newcastle and Castlewellan – for when the mountain weather puts a dampener on your BBQ plans.
Aurora North Coast, for log-cabin luxury
Cabin
Pack your long johns for this spot on the Antrim Coast offering glamping near Portrush, where you’ll be hunkering down in an authentic log cabin that, from the outside at least, looks like something from the pioneer days. Even inside, there are nods to the Old West, with lantern-style lights, a bunk bed made from rough-hewn timber and a wood-burning stove. But there’s enough modern luxury to make sure you’re not roughing it like the pilgrims, including a fitted designer kitchen, a super king-size bed and even a private outdoor hot tub. And IF you ever want to leave, you’re an hour’s bracing walk across fields to the Giant’s Causeway, one of Northern Island’s must-visit attractions.
Lovely three-bed cabin in Meigh, for a family holiday
Cabin
If you like your log cabin stays on the less rustic side, then this wood-panelled pad in Meigh, just south of Newry, could be the best luxury glamping Northern Ireland has to offer. Sleeping up to eight, it’s perfect for families, who’ll love to pile onto the massive L-shaped sofa in front of the log-burner and flatscreen TV or, when the sun’s out, spread out on the wraparound deck and bob in the hot tub. Younger kids in particular will also love the nearby Giant’s Lair Story Trail, complete with fairy houses and spooky, gargoyle-like sculptures.
Castle Ward Camping Pods, for country manor glamour
Camping, Glamping
Cushendun Caravan Park, for woodsy hobbit-style pods
Camping
Crom Estate Pods, for wildlife sightings
Glamping
East Coast Adventure, for sporty types
Glamping
For more stunning stays, see the most incredible places to stay in Northern Ireland, bookable with Culture Trip. Enjoy some easy sightseeing with the best hotels near the Giant’s Causeway, or stay close to nature with the best campsites in Northern Ireland.
Niall McGrade contributed additional reporting.