Effortless relaxation awaits at Ardtara Country House, a luxurious escape nestled in the heart of County Derry.
From the moment you arrive, attentive service, a peaceful setting, and comforting fine food create a haven for unwinding from the everyday rush.
Ardtara is owned by Browns Bonds Hill Collection, created by St. Johnston restauranteur Marcus Roulston and Chef Patron Iar Orr, a native of Derry city. It is a member of Ireland’s prestigious 50-year-old Blue Book collection, of which Roulston is the Chair.
Roulston and Orr purchased Ardtara in 2014 and were dedicated to preserving the heritage of the house while adding restorations. Ardtara was once the bustling family home of the Clark linen barons, whose legacy is still felt today.
Ardtara Country House and Restaurant
Ardtara was built by Harry Clark as a romantic and lively family home around 1896.
Now, Ardtara offers an elegant and intimate stay where everyone is welcomed as if it is their own home.
Curl up with a good book in the bar lounge while sipping an expertly crafted house cocktail, or stroll through the serene grounds and take in the fresh air. You can always cozy up by the quiet comfort of your own fireplace in your room.
Our 19th-century mansion bedroom
A warm welcome at Ardtara
Ardtara is an Ireland’s Blue Book Property
Our 19th-century mansion bedroom
A feast for the senses awaits at the Clark fine dining restaurant, recommended by the Michelin Guide and boasting 2 AA Rosettes. Foodies who appreciate farm to fork produce can savour the freshest, seasonal produce in a six-course tasting menu, or choose from an à la carte selection. This is where the service shines. The attentive staff, who even know each of their guests’ names, elevates the experience further. Don’t miss the bar lounge for the perfect nightcap.
The culinary delights extend to casual dining in the bar or afternoon tea in the Clark Restaurant, where you can savour country house treats with a contemporary twist. On Sundays, you can enjoy a leisurely lunch, choosing from an a la carte menu or the traditional roast.
Choose to sip a wine in the peaceful grounds
Sirloin
A choice of freshly cooked breakfasts
Amidst the indulging, there are ample opportunities for exploration.
The hotel grounds offer picturesque strolls around the boundary, or you can venture to the Upperlands Mill & Dams that once used to serve the linen mills.
On Sunday morning we visited Drumnaph Wood for an easy woodland walk on trails that are very well developed with fun features celebrating local wildlife.
Scenic walks at Ardtara
Scenic walks at Ardtara
Drumnaph Woodland Trail
Drumnaph Woodland Trail
Ardtara, is conveniently located just off the A6 and is only 15 minutes from Seamus Heaney HomePlace and within 45 minutes of Belfast, Derry city, the Giant’s Causeway, the Antrim coast, Royal Portrush Golf Club. Game of Thrones fans will also be thrilled to visit nearby filming locations. Or visit Magherafelt for boutique shopping, just a short drive away.
What I loved about Ardtara were the subtle nods to the house’s linen history that are woven throughout, from the family photos on the walls to the stunning linen menus. We really did feel transported back to the past.
Scenic walks at Ardtara
Country house character in the beautiful bathroom
Extensive wine selection at Ardtara Country House
Ardtara’s casual bar menu includes bespoke cocktails themed to the house and region. The beautiful menus are adorned with Clark family linen
Special Offers
If you would like to visit Ardtara on a Northern Ireland escape, don’t miss the B&B Spring Sale: with a two-course dinner, from £224 per room, based on two sharing, offer subject to availability until May 31st 2024.
The Easter Offer includes 2 nights Four-Course Dinner and B&B, get a third night B&B FREE! Valid between 1st April – 7th April 2024
There’s also a Lazy Sunday Wine & Dine offer from £117.50pps, with 1 night B&B, two-course dinner paired with wine, late breakfast and lake checkout.
Special Events
Sunday 31st March – Easter Sunday 4 Course Lunch £39.95pp
Saturday 20th April – Heritage Tour & lunch (3 courses) Tickets £35pp
Sunday 18th June – Father’s Day 4 Course Lunch £39.95pp
Reservations can be made online www.ardtara.com or by telephone 028 796 44490
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