Looking to getaway but fancy something completely different? Luckily, Northern Ireland is home to some of the coolest Airbnbs around.
Whether you want a city centre pad with original style or a coastal getaway steeped in history - there are all kinds of quirks that make our country’s guesthouses some of the greatest. And some of them may be closer to you than you think.
We know how hard it can be to find somewhere to stay that has it all - location, luxury and that little bit of edge. So, we’ve done all the hard work for you, and compiled a list of some of the coolest places to stay. From boats to bubbles, glamping to Game of Thrones - here are seven of the most unique Airbnbs in Northern Ireland.
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The old shipping container turned ‘Surfer’s Shack’
Where? Ballycastle, Co Antrim
What’s unique? The shack has been created using an upcycled shipping container. Cute and eco-friendly!
What else will I love about it? If you’re looking for a quiet yet quirky getaway, The Surfer’s Shack is definitely the one for you. Surrounded by Co Antrim countryside while covered in Causeway coastline deco, this place will give you all the best of what Northern Ireland’s natural surroundings have to offer. The top tourist spots are located just minutes away (Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, the dark hedges and the Bushmills distillery to name a few). The porch is perfect for a glass of wine on a summer evening, and in the colder months, the log fire or jacuzzi should keep you lovely and warm.
Where can I find more details? Here .
A converted 1960s horsebox on the coast
Where? Causeway Coast and Glens
What’s unique? You get to stay in a converted horsebox from 1968…it doesn’t get much more unique than that!
What else will I love about it? Aside from its incredible history, The Oat Box still has so much to offer. It sits in the perfect location for exploring the coast, with a lovely selection of restaurants and coffee shops nearby, and sensational views just up the hill.
You may think an old horsebox might be a cramped place to stay, but The Oat Box is big enough to have its own shower room inside. Couples can spend their evening gathered around the firepit or sitting on the balcony watching the sunset.
Where can I find more details? Here .
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Prosecco and smores in your very own bubble
Where? Portglenone, Co Antrim
What’s unique? If you really need to escape reality, you can spend a weekend in your very own bubble.
What else will I love about it? It doesn’t get much cooler than spending the night in your own bubble - gazing at the stars from the comfort of your own bed. The Foxborough Bubble Den is beautifully decorated, surrounded by greenery, and you get breakfast included in the morning. What’s not to like?
If you fancy a treat, perhaps go for the sunset package (prosecco and smores included). Guests described it as “an amazing experience”, “a lovely getaway” and “a truly magical place”.
Where can I find more details? Here .
Glamping gone wild
Where? Magherafelt, Co Derry
What’s unique? It’s a pod with pretty much everything you could ever wish for.
What else will I love about it? When it comes to a great Airbnb, The Pod just about ticks everything on the list. Whether it be the private, wood-fired hot tub, the pizza oven, the huge BBQ, the amazing gym, the mountain views, or the breakfast (included) - there is something for everybody at this place. It’s also great for exploring loads of places in NI - whether it be Derry (45 minutes away), Giants Causeway (50 minutes away), Portrush (45 minutes away) or Belfast (60 minutes away).
Where can I find more details? Here.
A huge house on the beach where Game of Thrones was filmed
Where? Castlerock, Co Derry
What’s unique? Game of Thrones was filmed on Downhill beach, which happens to be located right in front of this house!
What else will I love about it? While its link to one of the most popular series of all time will no doubt draw fans in, there are loads of other reasons why even guests who haven’t watched GOT will want to stay at Sandybank. Sat directly in front of Downhill beach, you can enjoy eight miles of sandy beaches right in front of you, with stunning views of Donegal too. Plus if you hadn’t noticed, it's massive, meaning up to eight guests can enjoy long days at the beach, a BBQ in the garden or a day out at nearby tourist spots while staying in this incredible, well-located mansion.
Where can I find more details? Here.
A hot tub house in the city
Where? Belfast
What’s unique? It’s in the coolest city in the world, and it has a hot tub!
What else will I love about it? Wherever you stay in Belfast, you’ll no doubt have a good time. But anywhere with a hot tub is always going to make your stay even better. Aside from the luxury private jacuzzi, guests still have loads to look forward to during their stay, including chilled champagne on arrival, a complimentary mini-bar, retro arcade games, speakers, Netflix, and a night out in Belfast. Sounds like an absolute blast if you ask us!
Where can I find more details? Here.
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This anchored narrowboat has its own private beach
Where? Ballyronan, Co Derry
What’s unique? A few nights on this boat will certainly be a brand new voyage.
What else will I love about it? Nestled on the edge of Lough Neagh, The Ali Rose is a beautifully reclaimed timber boat embarking on a new, less busy type of life. You won’t be doing much floating, but you’ll still be able to fall asleep to the sound of the shore, enjoy your own lawn and private beach, and experience stunning views of the lough.
Meanwhile, you can cook up a BBQ, chat around the firepit, fill up the log burner, chuck on your favourite vinyl record, or simply sit back and let your stress sail away. One guest said: “I wish I had of known about The Ali Rose sooner.” Well, luckily, we all do now!
Where can I find more details? Here.
