Business Details
12 Years
experience
Luxury Country House Hotel in Upperlands, Northern Ireland
Ardtara Country House is a historic Victorian country house hotel nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland, offering luxurious accommodation, award-winning dining, and exceptional hospitality. Established in 2014 under the ownership of Marcus Roulston and chef patron Ian Orr, the property combines romantic architecture with modern comforts, featuring nine individually designed bedrooms adorned with antiques and heirlooms. Our culinary philosophy centres on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, including produce from our own gardens, overseen by a team with decades of combined experience in fine dining.Located equidistant from Belfast and Derry, we provide easy access to iconic attractions such as the Causeway Coastal Route and the Sperrin Mountains. Recognised by the Michelin Guide and part of Ireland's Blue Book, our commitment to excellence extends to weddings, gourmet experiences, and curated local itineraries. The service, praised for its warmth and professionalism, ensures guests feel at home while enjoying top-tier hospitality. Sustainability and community are core values, reflected in our partnerships with local producers and preservation of historical heritage.
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Fine Dining
Wedding Venues
Afternoon Tea
Tasting Menus
Cookery Demonstrations
Local Itineraries
Bar Services
Exclusive Hire
Gift Vouchers
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- Award-winning fine dining with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients
- Historic Victorian architecture with modern comforts
- Strategic location for exploring Northern Ireland's top attractions
- Personalised service praised in guest testimonials
- Curated experiences including cookery demonstrations and local itineraries
Associations and certifications
- Michelin Guide
- Ireland's Blue Book
What people say
Outstanding service
Delicious food
Beautifully restored house
Cosy atmosphere
Impeccable hospitality
Services
Luxury Accommodation
Ardtara offers nine uniquely designed bedrooms blending historic charm with modern comforts. Each room features antiques, heirlooms, and contemporary amenities like Nespresso machines. En suite bathrooms include high-pressure showers and Italian marble finishes. The Master Bedroom provides panoramic views of woodlands and gardens, while Superior and Classic Rooms offer working fireplaces and scenic vistas. All accommodations ensure a tranquil retreat for guests seeking elegance and comfort.
Fine Dining
Award-winning dining at Ardtara showcases seasonal, locally sourced ingredients curated by Michelin-recommended chef Ian Orr. The daily-changing menu highlights produce from our gardens and partnerships with regional suppliers. Guests enjoy a six-course tasting dinner, Sunday lunch, or bar menu featuring dishes like venison haunch and seafood chowder. The restaurant, recommended by the Michelin Guide, provides wine pairings and a curated cocktail list for an immersive culinary experience.
Wedding Venues
Ardtara is a premier venue for gourmet weddings with bespoke menus and exclusive hire options. The Clark Room accommodates 54 guests, while the Garden Room seats 24, with combined capacity for 78. Packages include civil ceremony licensing, overnight stays in nine bedrooms, and tailored menus. Recognised as 'Most Romantic Hotel' by Northern Ireland Hospitality Awards, the team ensures stress-free planning from menu selections to champagne receptions in a historic setting.
Afternoon Tea
Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea experience featuring homemade scones, clotted cream, and preserves. The festive menu includes seasonal delicacies like Christmas pudding and macaroons. Served Wednesday to Saturday, it pairs with Thompson Family tea or Upperlands coffee. The menu changes seasonally, offering both classic and innovative twists in a refined setting overlooking the estate's gardens.
Local Itineraries
Ardtara provides curated itineraries for exploring Northern Ireland's attractions, including the Giant's Causeway and Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Guests receive GPS tipsheets for discovering nearby golf courses, historical sites, and scenic drives. The team offers recommendations for hiking in the Sperrin Mountains, coastal walks, and cultural experiences in Derry and Belfast, ensuring a tailored exploration of the region.
People
Ian Orr
Chef Patron
Award-winning chef Ian Orr, renowned for his appearances on BBC's Saturday Kitchen, leads Ardtara's culinary team. With five Michelin stars across his restaurants, he champions local produce and seasonal menus. Orr co-owns the Browns Bonds Hill Collection, blending innovation with tradition to elevate Northern Ireland's gastronomy on a global stage.
Marcus Roulston
Owner
Hospitality specialist Marcus Roulston co-owns Ardtara with Ian Orr. A visionary in luxury dining and accommodation, he has transformed historic properties into award-winning destinations. Roulston's expertise in curating immersive guest experiences ensures Ardtara maintains its reputation as a beacon of Northern Irish hospitality and heritage.
Questions
What services does Ardtara Country House offer?
We provide luxury accommodation, fine dining, afternoon tea, wedding venues, and curated local itineraries. Our restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.
Is Ardtara accessible for guests with disabilities?
Yes, we offer accessible rooms and facilities. Our staff ensures all guests enjoy a comfortable stay with tailored assistance upon request.
Can I redeem a Blue Book voucher at Ardtara?
Yes, Ireland's Blue Book vouchers can be used for stays and dining. Contact us directly to book and apply your voucher.
What nearby attractions are accessible from Ardtara?
We're 45 minutes from Belfast and Derry, with easy access to the Giant's Causeway, Sperrin Mountains, and Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Local golf courses and historical sites are also nearby.
Do you offer exclusive hire for events?
Yes, Ardtara can be exclusively hired for weddings or private events, accommodating up to 78 guests across two dining rooms and nine bedrooms.
Are dietary requirements accommodated in your restaurant?
We cater to dietary needs where possible. Please inform us of allergies or intolerances when booking, though trace allergens may be present.
Reviews (4)
Christina Kerr
May 11, 2022
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We enjoyed a lovely evening last night. All staff, were welcoming, friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The food was delicious and presented beautifully. No better way to celebrate my 60th birthday and retirement.
William McDonald
May 02, 2022
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The food and service you get here is first class and second to no one, I would say it was first class from you come in the door to you go back out the door.
Tracy Taggart
Mar 10, 2022
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This country house is amazing so much character. The staff are so professional & polite in their jobs Sean the general manager is a lovely person once we checked in he shown us round the house then to are room all there rooms are gorgeous the bathroom as an amazing roll top free standing bath would highly recommend & intend to go back.
Helen Houston
Feb 10, 2022
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My husband and I have stayed in Ardtara House a few times. The house is set in lovely gardens and grounds, which are well maintained. The rooms and bathrooms are spacious, tastefully furnished and decorated - transporting you back to a time of graduer. The food is always excellent - high end dining. The staff are friendly, helpful and make your stay a memorable experience - thank you Sean, Pedro, Nicola and all the staff behind the scenes. We will definitely be back in the not too distant future. Billy and Helen x
