Dunadry Hotel and Gardens

Originally a medieval paper-and-linen mill, the Dunadry Hotel has architectural and design elements that recall its previous incarnation. In addition to its white plaster walls and wood-framed doors, rollers of the old mill machinery have been repurposed as columns in the hotel bar. The A-frame roof's wood beams are exposed to reveal parts of the building's original structure. Newer decor still holds to a traditional style. The lobby bar's high-back leather armchairs and floral-patterned love seats suggest a style that's at least 100 years old, if not medieval, as do the carved rungs of the wooden banister. The hotel's stately event spaces have stained-wood walls with plenty of detailed molding. For weddings, the chairs are covered with sashes to accentuate the romantic aura. Other parts of the hotel, such as the hotel restaurant, are contemporary and refined. Most of these spaces have picture glass windows, highlighting the beauty of the grounds' lush greenery.

As suggested with its name, Dunadry Hotel is in the village of Dunadry, which at one point in time was an important contributor to the Ulster County linen industry. Today, most of the buildings that composed the village are gone, leaving several acres of land around the hotel. But the location is still strategic. Dunadry is about a 30-minute drive from Belfast and a 10-minute drive to the Belfast International Airport, making it a convenient stopover for travelers who have an early flight or want to rest after a long one. Area attractions include the Maid of Antrim, with cruises around Lough Neagh, leaving from the Antrim Marina, which is about an 11-minute drive from the hotel. The Antrim Castle and Gardens, a historic collection of flowers that dates back 400 years, is a seven-minute drive away. Massereene Golf Club, which opened in 1895, offers panoramic views of Lough Neagh, and is 12 minutes away by car. The 19th-century Belfast Castle, which overlooks the city, is about 20 minutes away by car.

Compared to the regal exteriors and public spaces, guest rooms at the Dunadry are a bit of a letdown. There's little to indicate the hotel's historic pedigree. Instead, decor is contemporary and pleasant. Room amenities include slippers, flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and electric kettles.

The Dunadry Hotel may have an isolated location surrounded by little more than nature, but the hotel's amenities give plenty to keep guests busy. Dunadry's restaurant serves continental fare, including Irish venison loin. The Copper Bar displays relics from the years when Dundary was a mill, and serves food and drink. Afternoon tea, with finger sandwiches and pastries, is also served, and some room packages include tea with spa treatments. Massages, facials, and body wraps are available at the on-site spa. The gym has exercise machines and free weights, an indoor pool, set underneath an arched wood roof, is large enough for laps, and swimming, yoga, and other fitness classes are offered by the hotel.
Anyone planning a wedding at the hotel will find numerous options for decor and celebratory ceremonies, such as a "Champagne Cork Signing" -- so many couples are married at the Dunadry that these Champagne corks are showcased on shelves in the lobby. Meeting organizers can choose from seven event spaces, including one that holds up to 300 people.