Ardtara Country House

About

If an award-winning gourmet break is on the top of your list, look no further than the elegant Ardtara Country House just outside the village of Upperlands, near Maghera. Luxurious from inception, the Victorian property was built by one of Northern Ireland’s wealthy linen barons and is in a picturesque setting amid woodlands and lakes.  Ardtara is a historic country house offering genuine warmth and hospitality, luxurious accommodation and award winning dining, all within 45 minutes of Northern Ireland’s airports, ferry terminals and the spectacular sights of the Sperrin mountains, Lough Neagh and the Causeway Coastal Route.

Restaurant - At Ardtara our chefs are passionate about using the finest seasonal food and believe in supporting local producers and suppliers wherever possible.  Our head chef changes the dinner menu frequently, showcasing the best that is on offer, including fruit, vegetables and herbs grown in our own gardens.

Our residents also get to enjoy a wide choice from our breakfast menu, all freshly cooked to order and served with Thompson Family teas and Upperlands coffee.  The afternoon tea at Ardtara is a joy in itself, offering a contemporary twist on a country house classic, while our Sunday lunch offers a la carte dining and always the option of a traditional roast.

We offer two dining areas; the Clark room was originally the games room, complete with glass canopy over where the billiards table once sat and is lit by two roaring fires in the original fireplaces.  The garden restaurant is in the orangery and can also be hired for private dining.  We advise customers to make a reservation to avoid disappointment.  Call +44(0)2879644490

Gardens - Just on the edge of the historic linen village of Upperlands lies Ardtara Country House Hotel.  Approached by a sweeping tree lined driveway and set amidst 10 wooded acres, this beautifully preserved country house was built in 1895 by the linen baron Harry Clark. Beyond the lawn lying to the front of the house are a series of paths and trails that lead you through the grounds where reminders of its Victorian origins abound.

Lounges - The stained glass front door leads into our reception hall, welcomed by the roaring fire, original wall hangings and the grand piano.  With original working fireplaces throughout its your choice whether you relax in the drawing room with its high ceilings, decorative cornicing and bookcases, or to unwind in the bar lounge with its extensive wine list and comprehensive array of local (and not so local) spirits, beers and aperitifs.

Bedrooms- Our nine individually designed bedrooms are filled with character and original features, furnished with a mixture of antiques, heirlooms and quirky pieces.  Each elegant en suite bathroom features a high pressure shower while many are clad in Italian marble or have their original wooden floors.

The king size beds have orthopaedic mattresses and are dressed with crisp white cotton bedlinen.  Eight of the bedrooms have an original fireplace with a working fire, and as Ardtara is tucked away in 10 wooded acres amongst rolling fields on the edge of the village a tranquil night’s sleep is sure to follow.

All of our bedrooms feature bathrobes, slippers, hairdryer, flat screen tv, telephone, free WiFi, and a Nespresso coffee machine. We even leave some homemade biscuits in your room.  And the bathrooms are made complete with soft fluffy towels and complimentary bath products.  Ironing and laundry facilities are available on request.