Ardtara Country House

Ardtara Country House was the Victorian family home built by Harry Clark, an adventurous linen magnate who developed his skills and acumen in the New World. The manor was built in 1896, when Harry finally returned to Ireland to start a family. He originally intended to run away to America at the age of 18, yet when his father caught up to him in Liverpool, the senior Clark made a deal with Harry instead. As a family of prominent linen manufacturers in Upperlands, Harry needed to take up the mantle someday. He would be allowed to go on his adventures in America, but on the condition that he worked as a salesman promoting their linen.

Although Ardtara served as the family home for the following decades, it suffered a decline and sat empty from the 1970s. It gained a new owner in 1990 and underwent restoration, eventually opening in 1994 as a country house hotel. Two decades later, it became part of the Browns Bonds Hill Collection, owned by hospitality veteran Marcus Roulston and celebrity chef Ian Orr. The new owners continued the restoration, while also building up its reputation as a luxury retreat and fine-dining destination.

Though Ardtara Country House was built in 1896, it embraces the romantic notions of Victorian Britain while staying rooted in Irish architectural traditions. The structure retains the conventions of late 19th-century country houses, built with high ceilings and large windows. Much of its original features are intact, such as the wood-burning fireplaces and their ornate mantels, the panelled wallpapers in the reception hall, and the well-maintained leather seats in the bar. Additional decorative touches and period furnishings further enhance Ardtara's historic aura, along with its qualities as a luxury retreat.

Like the shared spaces of the hotel, the guestrooms also blend heritage and contemporary comfort. Each of the nine rooms is individually designed, giving them their own personality while also showcasing Ardtara's historic aspects. Retained features include the high ceilings, their original fireplaces, and large windows overlooking the grounds and woodlands. These are paired with period antiques and heirlooms that give each space a unique character. Complementing these are modern amenities such as lavish bathrooms with Italian marble, some of which have also been adjusted for guests using wheelchairs.

Dining is treated as a crucial part of the guest experience at Ardtara Country House, indulging guests with beloved local recipes and modern fare. Each dish is made with locally sourced ingredients, refined through the culinary craftsmanship of the kitchen's chefs. Likewise, the menus change along with the seasons, showcasing the freshest flavors. For the dining spaces, guests can enjoy the cozy ambiance of the historic Clark Room, or book a private table in the conservatory garden.

Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, from a casual bar and lounge menu to a more formal a la carte dinner. Breakfast is available for residents and is cooked to order, paired with local teas or Upperlands coffee, continuing the focus on quality throughout every mealtime. The restaurant also upholds the British tradition of Sunday roasts, inviting guests to partake in this beloved weekend feast.

Afternoon Tea

Ardtara’s Afternoon Tea service provides a luxurious twist on the classic British tradition. You'll be treated to savory canapés and finger sandwiches, accompanied by your choice of tea or local Upperlands coffee, followed by decadent desserts and freshly baked breads with cream and jam. The service is perfect for a peaceful afternoon filled with relaxed socializing amidst the manor's historic setting.

Availability: Wednesday to Saturday: 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Celebrate your Happily Ever After at Ardtara Country House's 19th-century Victorian mansion, with the estate's beautiful landscaped gardens and woodlands as your backdrop. As part of the Browns Bonds Hill Collection, your event will enjoy catering prepared by award-winning culinary teams. They'll create carefully tailored menus that showcase the finest local ingredients, while enchanting you and your guests with your favorite flavors. Likewise, the dedicated events team will work just as closely to plan out everything, from the menu, decor, and even services such as musicians and toastmasters, all to ensure your vision and preferences are fulfilled.

The house can be hired exclusively for added privacy, and is licensed for civil ceremonies, meaning your union will be recognized by the law. The hotel's adaptable indoor spaces can be configured for your reception and banquet, with the historic Clark Room accommodating larger dinners, while the Garden Room is more suited for intimate gatherings. If you need to, you may also book both venues and host up to 78 guests. Outdoor ceremonies are also available during warmer months, which is perfect for scenic photoshoots and partying.

At Ardtara Country House, guests can enjoy various in‑house experiences that are sure to elevate their stay. You can book a heritage tour around the estate, which will be led by the General Manager, Seán McEvoy. If you're planning for a special occassion, such as a birthday or anniversary, celebrate it with a special six-course tasting dinner to sample the finer details of Northern Irish cuisine. There are also the Cookery Demonstrations, led by co-owner and Chef Patron, Ian Orr, who will teach guests a variety of easy-to-remember Irish recipes, then followed by an exquisite five-course meal.

Around the area, guests can enjoy a slew of cultural and outdoor activities that will foster their fondness of the Northern Irish countryside. Nature walks are plentiful along the scenic trails of Upperlands Mill & Dam Trail, and in nearby ancient woodlands and meadows like Drumnaph Nature Reserve and Banagher Glen. Although located in an urban area, the Antrim Castle Gardens consist of expansive parks and woodlands with plenty of facilities and attractions.

For those interested in day excursions, the historic city of Londonderry features museums, dining establishments, and landmarks. Nearby Bellaghy is home to the Seamus Heaney Homeplace, the Nobel Laureate's house which has been converted into a museum. Lough Neagh is Britain’s largest freshwater lake, and its banks are dotted by towns and villages with plenty to offer. Galgorm is another well-regarded heritage stay in the region, and known for its well-preserved Galgorm Castle.