The Most Picturesque Holiday Homes in...

Northern Ireland is a country steeped in history and culture, and many of its holiday homes are representative of its fascinating past. From Medieval gatehouses to barn conversions, here’s our list of the most picturesque holiday homes in Northern Ireland.

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The Barbican Glenarm

Guesthouse

Bridge over Glenarm river to Barbican tower gate entrance to Glenarm Castle in Glenarm, County Antrim, Northern Ireland, UK, Britain

Built in 1825, the Barbican is actually the entrance gate to a larger castle in Glenarm, County Antrim. Effectively a miniature Medieval castle, the tower is now available to rent for the perfect romantic getaway. Situated just across a bridge, the tower sits between picturesque Glenarm Castle and the village of Glenarm itself.

Drum Gate Lodge

Guesthouse

Another tower property in County Antrim, this one is very different from the Barbican. Whereas the Barbican is a grand entrance to a faux-Medieval estate, the Drum Gate is almost understated, and was primarily occupied by farm labourers. However, after extensive renovations, the Lodge is now a beautiful two-storey space with additional rooms attached. It’s perfect for a quiet weekend away.

Narrow Water Castle

Apartment

While Newry’s Narrow Water Castle isn’t available to rent in its entirety, there is a self-catering apartment in Mount Hall, the original heart of the castle. This two-bed apartment is equipped with all the creature comforts you would expect of a luxury location, and also provides easy access to the castle’s grounds, forests, equestrian centre and golf course.

Triumphal Arch Lodge

Lodge

The Triumphal Arch Lodge is another gatehouse, this time standing at the entrance to the Colebrooke Estate. A Grade B-listed building, it’s compact and cosy while also reflecting some of the grandeur of the estate beyond. The Marble Arch Caves, Enniskillen Castle and Florence Court are all nearby, and the award-winning Colebrook Spa is on the estate, so you can unwind and relax after a long day of walking.

Helen's Tower

Homestay, Villa

A three-storey stone tower tucked away in the Clandeboye Estate, County Down, Helen’s Tower is not only one of the most picturesque holiday homes in Northern Ireland, but it also provides some of the best panoramic views in the country. Standing on top of the tower, the entire estate is visible, and, on a clear day, the view extends as far as Scotland.

Crotlieve Barn

Guesthouse

Spacious, cosy, and halfway between Belfast and Dublin, this barn conversion might be the perfect home base from which to plan your great Irish road trip. Overlooking Kilbroney Valley and Carlingford Lough, Crotlieve is secluded and calm, well suited for a larger group of friends. Spend your days exploring the valley, the Fairy Glen and Kilbroney Park, before retiring to the living room and its log fire come sunset.

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