Winner of the Northern Ireland Business Award 2017 for Country House Accommodation
Dromore House sits quietly in the countryside in Coleraine, a charming Georgian home built around 1826 for a family to live and manage their estate. Over the years, it stayed a private residence, but in the late 1900s, a new owner came along and carefully brought it back to life, keeping the fireplaces and gardens that had grown over generations. One of the quirkiest spots is the Scullery, a separate little unit with its own kitchen, perfect for some added privacy. Winner of the Northern Ireland Business Award, the house is also a calm base for exploring the north coast, whether it’s marveling at the Giant’s Causeway, strolling along dramatic cliffs, or following scenic trails through forests and coastal villages.
88 Coolyvenny Road, Coleraine, Coleraine, United Kingdom, BT51 3SF
Dromore House is this proper old house out near Coleraine, sitting there in the middle of the countryside. Built sometime around 1826, you can even spot it on some of the really old maps. It started as a Georgian country house with big windows, lots of space, and a balanced look that people liked back then. Back in the day, families with land would build these houses not just to live in, but to run their farms.
For ages, it was just a private family home. In the late 1900s, the place needed some serious care, and a new owner took it on and slowly brought it back to life. The gardens and huge old trees that you see now have been around for generations, giving it that real “country estate” vibe. Walking around there, you can’t help but notice how old it feels, like it’s seen a lot of stories over the years.
Dromore House follows a classic Georgian country house style where everything feels balanced and well-spaced. Inside, a lot of the original details are still intact. You'll notice the painted wooden floors straight away, along with old fireplaces and window shutters that have clearly been part of the house for a long time. The interiors are not flashy or overly styled. Instead, the house leans into what it already has. Antique furniture is placed where it makes sense, and nothing feels out of place.
The Scullery is a separately enclosed, self-catering space that sits slightly apart from the main house. It has its own small kitchen, a compact bathroom, and a comfortable bedroom area, making it ideal for guests who want a bit more privacy. Ceilings are lower, and the layout is more basic, which matches how it was originally used. An original fireplace was uncovered during renovation, and that adds to the character. Windows across the house open out to views of the gardens and the surrounding countryside. Overall, the design stays honest to the building, letting its age and structure speak for themselves instead of covering them up.
Dromore House does not have its own full kitchen, but all accommodation includes breakfast. Breakfast is freshly made using local produce and usually includes a hot, traditional Ulster cooked breakfast. Expect local butcher sausages, Irish peat-smoked bacon, black pudding, house-made potato bread, along with local mushrooms and tomatoes. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available. On some days, there are breakfast specials too, like eggs Benedict or eggs Florentine, fluffy pancakes served with bacon or fruit, and warming bowls of porridge.
If you are looking to eat out later in the day or head out for dinner, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants just a short drive away in Coleraine. Nearby options for a light bite include Coffee at the Dock and Rocca. For a relaxed sit-down meal, Sandpiper Bistro Bar is a popular choice, while Elliot’s Bistro is great if you want something a bit more substantial. Seafood lovers often head to LIR at the marina, which is well known for its fresh, seasonal dishes. All of these places are within a short drive or quick taxi ride from Dromore House, making it easy to explore the local food scene.
Dromore House is a peaceful country retreat where families can enjoy the gardens and open space, while inside there are books, board games, and puzzles for a relaxed afternoon. It’s a calm base from which to explore the many sights and experiences along the north coast.
The Giant’s Causeway is one of the most famous attractions nearby. It's thousands of interlocking basalt stone columns that stretch into the sea and create a landscape that feels almost unreal. Not far from there is the Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge, reached by a scenic coastal walk. Crossing the bridge can feel a little nerve-racking, but the views across the cliffs and sea make the effort worthwhile. It is open year-round and remains one of the most memorable coastal experiences.
Just a short drive from the hotel, visitors can tour the Old Bushmills Distillery, the oldest licensed working distillery in the world. Guided tours explain how Irish whiskey is made, followed by tastings. There is also the option of taking the steam train that runs between Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway.
Golfers often make time for the Royal Portrush Golf Club, home to the Dunluce Links and Valley Links. It is considered one of the top links courses in the world and has hosted The Open Championship. Along the coast, there are plenty of options for water-based activities. Boat trips leave from Portrush Harbour for deep-sea fishing or visits to Rathlin Island. Surfing, bodyboarding, windsurfing, and scuba diving are all popular along this stretch of shoreline.
Fans of Game of Thrones will recognise several filming locations along the Causeway Coastal Route. Dunluce Castle stands on a rocky clifftop and has a long and dramatic history. Visitors can explore the ruins and the remains of the nearby abandoned town. Derry Londonderry makes for an interesting day trip. It is the only completely walled city in Ireland and offers excellent walking tours that cover its history, murals, and key landmarks, including the Peace Bridge.
Finally, the Glens of Antrim offer a scenic route through valleys, forests, and small coastal towns. Glenariff Forest Park is especially popular for its waterfall walks, while places like Cushendall and Cushendun are good spots to pause and take in the views.
Dromore House is a peaceful country retreat, so they might be able to accommodate very small or intimate gatherings. For birthdays, anniversaries, or private family get-togethers, it could work depending on the arrangements. As the property is primarily a private home, it’s best to contact the team directly to discuss what is possible and check any details before planning a celebration
A small seaside village with a long sandy beach, good views, and easy walks along the coast to enjoy. (17-minute drive)
A peaceful forest with walking paths, wildlife to spot, and a quirky stone pyramid that’s fun to explore up close. (10-minute drive)
A really old fort with heaps of history, surrounded by forest, perfect for a stroll and imagining ancient life. (10-minute drive)
City of Derry Airport is the closest airport to Dromore House, around 35 minutes away by car.
The closest major train terminal to the property is the Coleraine Railway Station, around 15 minutes away by car.