Host Unusual meets the Irish Landmark Trust (and we got on so well that they’re offering an exclusive discount on heritage-steeped stays in Northern Ireland!)
Northern Ireland is a renowned treasure trove of beauty and heritage. Known for its castles, glacial valleys and mountains, religious and cultural monuments and – of course! – its many coastal links golf courses, we can’t think of many better places to spend some much-needed downtime.
(‘Game of Thrones’ fans will already be familiar with the stunning Northern Irish landscapes… seen regularly in some of the series’ most memorable moments!).
Of course, if you’re planning a trip to such a heritage-steeped part of the world, then doesn’t it make sense to stay somewhere interesting and unusual, whilst also contributing to a registered charity that works hard to ensure that the past has a future?
Breathing brand-new life into Ireland’s historic buildings since 1992, the Irish Landmark Trust is a completely non-profit, educational organisation that turns historic buildingsin need of conservation into beautiful holiday accommodation that is special and unique (a mission we can more than relate to here at Host Unusual HQ!).
Irish Landmark properties are living buildings that range from lighthouses and schools, to castles and gate lodges,each one with its very own fascinating story to tell. The Trust respects the history and architecture of its properties, whilst also ensuring that guests have absolutely everything they need inside their special holiday home.
We know… it’s not enough to tell you about these amazing properties, we have to show you, too! So without any further ado, here are six of the Irish Landmark Trust’s wonderful stays – and if any spark your interest, why not take advantage of the exclusive 10% discount offer they’ve arranged for Host Unusual guests (we’ll tell you more about that in a moment!).
First up is Ketch, the ideal holiday home if you’ve always harboured a secret dream of being a lighthouse keeper!
Set in County Down, Ketch is a lighthouse keepers’ cottagethat sits in the shadow of St John’s Point Lighthouse…painted in bumblebee black and yellow! The characterful cottage sleeps up to four people in two bedrooms, and promises wonderful sea views – as well as stunning wooden flooring and contemporary comforts throughout.
Helen’s Tower,built in 1848 by Frederik Lord Dufferin and named after his mother, is acultural landmark immortalised by Alfred, Lord Tennyson (“Helen’s Tower, here I stand. Dominant over sea and land”).
The setting for an enchanting getaway is assured – from the rooftop lookout you can even view the shores of Scotland on a clear day! Discover spiral staircases, wood-carved ceilings and ornate features throughout the four storeys of this breathtaking tower, found deep in the woods of County Down’s Clandeboye Estate.
Moving into County Antrim, where the Drum Gate Lodgeawaits you with its circular architecture and updated extension, creating a unique blend of traditional with modern that makes for the ideal romantic getaway!
Floor-to-ceiling glass windows make the most of the stunning countrysideviews, while a private patio and a peat-burning stove cater for summer and winter evenings alike. Oh – and with Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills within easy reach, holiday entertainment is guaranteed.
Magherintemple Lodge, another historic Country Antrim gem,dates back to the 19th century. Built in Scottish baronial style with most of the rooms at ground level, the two-bedroomed lodge was later updated by Sir John Casement, father of Sir Roger, who placed an inscription over the door.
The charming patio is the perfect setting from which to enjoy blazing orange sunsets, and the coast is within strolling distance. With all that exquisite peace and quiet on offer, Magherintemple Lodge certainly represents the perfect chocolate-box escape.
Beautifully situated on the River Bush in Bushmills, County Antrim, the Kiln Wing forms part of a lovingly restored 19th century corn mill, rescued from dilapidation in the 1980s by a retired engineer with a soft spot for the charming village.
If you’re looking for somewhere to escape to with your favourite person… somewhere you can really leave all the cares and stresses of modern life far behind you for a while, then the idyllic Kiln Wing is the perfect place. You’ll admire the original features of this historic and listed building,including the cogs and wheels at its core, but also the unrivalled setting right next to a rushing river – such a relaxing viewpoint from the lounge with your feet up!
Travelling south, and away from the coast, we arrive at the grand Colebrooke Estate, set within the lake region of County Fermanagh – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near the magical Lough Erne.
Triumphal Arch Lodgeis a Grade B-listed 19th century building that sleeps up to four (plus acanine companion!). Marvel in the intricate architecture as you wander around your new holiday home, infused with an authentic taste of times past. The onsite award-winning spa is an indulgent extra touch, and the gorgeous surrounding countryside lends itself to wildlife spotting and some fantastic walks and explorations.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this tour of the beauty and heritage found in Northern Ireland! Learn more about the Irish Landmark Trust by visiting their website (it’s easy to make a donation if you feel so inclined).
Oh, and if you’d like to stay in any of these magnificent properties, Host Unusual holidayers will receive 10% off stays between 1st September to 31st October 2017. Simply quote ‘HostUnusual17‘ at the time of booking to redeem your discount.
In the meantime, wherever you decide to spend your holiday (we have plenty of fantastic categories for you to choose from) we wish you plenty of traditional Irish-style craic!
