How to spend a perfect weekend in Belfast? Stay at Northern Ireland’s ‘best hotel’

Van Morrison has long been a fan of this celebrated country escape (Picture: Grifco Photos)

If Belfast isn’t on your city break list yet, it should be: Northern Ireland’s capital is the unexpected hot ticket of 2026.

Last month, Belfast hosted Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, the world’s biggest celebration of Irish music and culture. (Locals just call it The Fleadh.)

Traditionally held south of the border, it was the first time the show had come to town.

And for eight days, streets long associated with division filled instead with joy – a poignant reminder of just how much this place has changed.

Coming only weeks after the July...