Dining at Dunluce Lodge. Sensational Experience. Stunning Location.

press release

Dining at Dunluce Lodge. 

Sensational Experience. Stunning Location.

 

Just one year after opening its doors, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, Co. Antrim has firmly established itself as one of Ireland’s most distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. In a remarkable first year, the 35-bedroom, five-star property has earned a series of accolades and prestigious affiliations, positioning it among the world’s finest boutique hotels. Yet beyond its luxurious surroundings and dramatic coastal setting, it is the dining experience that truly defines a stay here.

Located along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route and just moments from Whiterocks Beach via a private walkway, Dunluce Lodge offers a rare sense of calm in one of Ireland’s most striking landscapes. Evenings unfold slowly, cocktails by the fire, freshly shucked oysters at the bar, the Atlantic fading into dusk.

 

At Dunluce Lodge, food is central to the story. Under the direction of Executive Head Chef Stephen Holland (pictured), the culinary team delivers a highly refined expression of Northern Ireland’s natural larder, supported by impeccable, intuitive service.

At the heart of the experience is The Restaurant at Dunluce Lodge, where Holland’s menus are shaped by seasonality, sustainability and close relationships with local farmers, fishermen and artisan producers. A Tyrone native, Holland’s culinary journey began at just thirteen, inspired by his mother Patricia and his great aunt Kathleen, whose love of cooking sparked his lifelong passion. His career has since spanned the globe, including time working with celebrity chef, Rick Stein and cooking for distinguished guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, before returning home with a clear vision: to champion the produce of Northern Ireland.

 

“The Causeway Coast offers an incredible natural pantry,” says Holland. “Our aim is to give diners a true taste of this place and celebrate its rich bounty by working with exceptional local producers and allowing those ingredients to shine.”

That philosophy is evident in every dish. Co Down oysters on offer are pristine and briny, lifted with Burren balsamic horseradish vinegar and lemon. Kilkeel crab and mussel salad, finished with a delicate fennel and dulse pickle.

Seafood is a constant thread throughout the menu. Grilled local fish is paired with sweet brown shrimp, samphire and a sharp lemon and bay vinegar. Halibut is elevated with crayfish, samphire and radish while hake is served with charred leek, potato and leek pavé and a robust XO sauce. Each dish is rooted in both technical precision and a strong sense of place.

 

For meat lovers, provenance is paramount. The standout 400g bone-in sirloin of Lisdergan beef is a celebration of Northern Ireland’s exceptional farming, served simply with a rich red wine jus to allow the quality of the meat to come through. Elsewhere, Lisdergan flax-fed beef fillet is complemented by braised beef cheek and fine herb stock, while Eccelgreens pork is paired with Armagh apple butter and preserved fennel, further reflecting the kitchen’s commitment to sourcing local pork.

Beyond the main restaurant, Dunluce Lodge offers a variety of distinctive dining experiences. The Bar provides a relaxed yet refined setting for all-day dining, where expertly crafted cocktails, fine Irish spirits and a carefully considered menu create an atmosphere that blends elegance with warmth.

 

The Vault offers a more intimate and atmospheric experience. This elegant cellar space, with its soft lighting and sense of old-world charm, is home to an exceptional collection of wines and premium whiskeys. The extensive wine list has been thoughtfully curated, featuring both classic and contemporary producers from across the globe, while the whiskey selection showcases the very best of Ireland alongside rare international finds.  The great big table in the centre is perfect for private dining or a special occasion for an intimate group.

 

Dining at Dunluce Lodge extends beyond the plate. Guests can experience chef’s table evenings, whiskey and oyster pairings, and seasonal tasting menus inspired by the Causeway Coast, as well as foraging walks with the culinary team.

Ultimately, dining at Dunluce Lodge is about more than exceptional food—it is about provenance, storytelling and a profound sense of place. Here, every ingredient has a source, every dish has a purpose, and every meal offers a true and memorable taste of the Causeway Coast. Food stories from the edge of the world where the dramatic coastline plunges into the sea.  A great story told one plate at a time, one bite at a time.

For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700.

Dunluce Lodge Celebrates First Anniversary with Major Industry Recognition and Global Prestige

press release 

Dunluce Lodge Celebrates First Anniversary with Major Industry Recognition and Global Prestige

 

Just one year after opening its doors, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, Northern Ireland, has firmly established itself as one of Ireland’s most distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. In a remarkable first year of operation, the five-star property has achieved a series of accolades and prestigious affiliations that position it among the very finest boutique hotels in the world.

 

Among the hotel’s most notable honours is the Georgina Campbell Award, one of Ireland’s most respected and influential recognitions in the hospitality industry. The Georgina Campbell Guides are widely regarded as the gold standard for independent hospitality assessment in Ireland, celebrating excellence in hotels, restaurants and guest experiences. Receiving this award within its first year is a powerful endorsement of Dunluce Lodge’s exceptional service, refined design, and outstanding guest experience.

 

Further cementing its international reputation, Dunluce Lodge has also been accepted into the globally renowned Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) portfolio. Membership in SLH is highly selective, with each property undergoing rigorous evaluation to ensure it meets the organisation’s exacting standards for quality, individuality and luxury. Inclusion signals that Dunluce Lodge is recognised on the global stage as a property delivering world-class luxury and bespoke hospitality. Adding to its growing list of distinctions, Dunluce Lodge has also become a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, a prestigious collection of the country’s most exceptional hotels, country houses, castles and restaurants. Membership is by invitation and represents a commitment to authentic Irish hospitality, outstanding culinary standards, and a distinctive sense of place.

 

Located on the spectacular North Antrim Coast, near the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club, Dunluce Lodge has quickly become a destination for discerning travellers from around the world. The hotel’s proximity to one of golf’s most celebrated links courses has also made it a favourite among visiting players and fans of the sport.

 

In 2025, global golfing star Rory McIlroy chose Dunluce Lodge as his home during the The Open, staying at the property with his family while competing in the tournament at nearby Royal Portrush. His visit further highlighted the hotel’s appeal to international guests seeking privacy, luxury and a world-class location along one of the most scenic coastlines in Europe.

 

Over the past year, Dunluce Lodge has distinguished itself through its combination of understated luxury, exceptional cuisine, and warm, personalised service. With its intimate scale, refined interiors and dramatic coastal setting, the hotel offers guests an experience that blends contemporary elegance with the rich heritage of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast.

 

Commenting on the hotel’s first anniversary, General Manager Stephen Meldrew said, “Reaching our first anniversary is a proud moment for everyone at Dunluce Lodge. From the beginning, our ambition was to create something truly special on the Causeway Coast — a hotel that combines world-class luxury with the warmth and authenticity of Irish hospitality. To receive recognition such as the Georgina Campbell Award, to be welcomed into Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and to join Ireland’s Blue Book within our first year is an incredible honour for the entire team.”

 

As Dunluce Lodge celebrates its first anniversary, these achievements reflect both the vision behind the property and the dedication of its team in delivering an exceptional guest experience from day one and they look forward to welcoming guests from across Ireland and from around the world.

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB. For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

 

MUM’S THE WORD AT DUNLUCE LODGE!

press release

MUM’S THE WORD AT DUNLUCE LODGE!

 

Give the gift of breathtaking beauty, indulgent pampering, and timeless memories this Mother’s Day at Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, perched along Northern Ireland’s dramatic north coast. From the awe-inspiring cliffs and Atlantic waves to the historic allure of Dunluce Castle and the legendary Giant’s Causeway, every moment here is a celebration of life’s finer pleasures.

Overnight Escape - Step into a world of serene luxury. An overnight stay at Dunluce Lodge offers elegantly appointed rooms with sumptuous bedding, stunning vistas across the sea, the gardens and Royal Portrush Golf Course.  Let her wake to the soft sound of waves and the scent of the sea in the air (From £310 B&B per room per night).

 

Spa Indulgence - From rejuvenating massages to bespoke therapies designed to restore mind, body, and soul, Dunluce Lodge’s spa experience is an invitation to indulge in serenity. Located in quiet building separate from the hotel, the intimate spa offers guests an opportunity to completely retreat from the world. 

 

Divine Lunch or Exquisite Dinner - Celebrate her with a culinary experience to remember. Whether it’s an elegant afternoon tea, lunch showcasing the finest local ingredients or an elegant dinner crafted with sophistication and flair, each meal is a feast for the senses and is always a real treat.

 

Flexible Gift Vouchers - Dunluce Lodge vouchers allow the recipient to pick what they would like to enjoy themselves—from an overnight escape to a spa treatment or a signature dining experience.

Every detail at Dunluce Lodge, from the sweeping coastal views to the exquisite interior comforts, reflects a commitment to creating unforgettable moments.

Perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and just a few hundred metres from the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge is one of Northern Ireland’s most luxurious and intimate five-star hotels. Opened just a year ago, the elegant property comprises 35 suites and a private residence, The Stookan, blending understated luxury, warm Irish hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting.

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB. For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

 

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Dunluce Lodge on the Causeway Coast Launches Restorative and Immersive ‘Sleepcation’ 

 

Winter asks more from the body than we often realise. With shorter days and reduced natural light, our circadian rhythm — the internal clock that regulates sleep, energy and hormone production — begins to shift. This can affect everything from alertness and mood to melatonin release at night, leaving many people feeling more tired, sluggish, sad or mentally foggy.

 

Sometimes the finest luxuries cannot rival the impact of a truly great night’s sleep. Problems feel less overwhelming, perspective returns and the day ahead becomes brighter after deep, uninterrupted rest. Acknowledging winter’s slower rhythm — and the body’s instinctive need for more sleep — is often the first step toward restoring balance.

 

Responding to this, Dunluce Lodge has launched its restorative and immersive ‘Sleepcation’, a stay designed entirely around rest, relaxation and deep sleep.

Perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and just a few hundred metres from the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge is Northern Ireland’s newest five-star retreat and one of its most intimate. Opened just a year ago, the elegant property comprises 35 suites and a private residence, The Stookan, blending understated luxury, warm Irish hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting into a refined escape designed for complete relaxation.

The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation is a fully immersive experience centred on restorative rest. The stay includes an overnight escape, breakfast, a signature spa treatment, calming sleep tea and a curated bedtime wellness offering, with amenities including a Seabody Sleep Balm and a carefully considered night-time ritual designed to help guests fully switch off and unwind. (?580 per room for two people sharing).

 

At its heart is the sleep experience itself. Guests settle into ultra-comfortable Hypnos, handmade beds layered with natural fibres and cashmere guard duvets and Cheviot wool pillows by local brand, Ava Innes, chosen for their gentle weight and natural temperature regulation.  The brand pioneers a unique, sustainable duvet fill made from cashmere guard hair — a forgotten luxury fibre offering gentle weight, exceptional temperature regulation and a sleep experience grounded in natural wellbeing.

Outside, the only sound is the Atlantic rolling steadily onto the shore, while inside the Lodge, a deep quiet settles after dusk. A short bedtime story inspired by local folklore — tales of giants and heroes such as Finn McCumhaill — is left on each bed as part of the turndown ritual, encouraging guests to disconnect from screens and return to the simple comfort of reading before sleeping.

 

The woodland spa plays a central role in the experience. The Drift & Dream Ritual by Seabody begins with grounding breathwork, followed by a personalised massage using warm Lavendar poultices, aromatherapy oil and finished with Seabody’s brand-new Sleep Balm. Stretching, lymphatic drainage and gentle acupressure guide the body into deep relaxation, preparing both body and mind for rest.

 

Dining at Dunluce Lodge complements the experience, with Executive Chef Stephen Holland and his team showcasing the best of the region’s seasonal produce through thoughtful, locally inspired menus. Evenings unfold slowly — cocktails by the fire, oysters at the bar or watching the last light fade into the Atlantic — before retreating to suites where comfort, stillness and the rhythm of the sea take over.

 

Located along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route and moments from Whiterocks Beach via a private walkway, the Lodge offers a rare sense of calm in one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes, within easy reach of landmarks such as the Giant’s Causeway.

The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation ultimately pays homage to the restorative power of sleep, embracing the rituals, environment and natural elements that support true rest. By bringing together sea air, silence, natural fibres and a slower pace of living, Dunluce Lodge invites guests to reconnect with their natural rhythms and rediscover the transformative power of deep, uninterrupted sleep. 

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB

 

For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

A LOVE STORY AT DUNLUCE LODGE

 A LOVE STORY AT DUNLUCE LODGE

 

-Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland-

The restaurant

 

Dunluce Lodge is Northern Ireland’s newest independent five-star hotel, an intimate coastal retreat perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush and overlooking the Atlantic on the edge of the seaside town of Portrush in County Antrim. With just thirty-five suites, it is the most refined place to stay along this dramatic coastline, offering a calm, residential atmosphere where privacy, romance and quiet luxury define the experience.

 

This Valentine’s, the Dunluce Lodge Luxury Valentine’s Retreat offers couples an elegant escape on the Causeway Coast, priced from £425 per couple sharing. The experience includes an overnight stay in a luxurious suite, a four-course dinner with a glass of bubbles, breakfast the following morning, and access to the spa facilities — a refined celebration of time together, designed for couples to relax, reconnect and slow the pace.

 

The Valentine’s experience is thoughtfully curated from arrival to departure. Guests are welcomed with a refreshment before settling into their suite, ahead of an evening that unfolds with a four-course dinner celebrating seasonal, local produce. After a restful night’s sleep, morning begins with a beautifully prepared breakfast and time to unwind in the spa’s steam room and gym. Each suite also features The Larder, a curated selection of north coast treats, while evening turndown includes handcrafted chocolates from The Chocolate Manor.

The lodge’s spa and fitness suite add another layer of calm, with treatments using Sea Body and Natura Bissé products inspired by the sea and the elements, while complimentary local transfers make it easy to explore nearby.

 

Affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World and a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, Dunluce Lodge blends contemporary design with warm, assured hospitality. Interiors are serene and beautifully detailed, while the public spaces — including the restaurant, bar, private dining rooms and atmospheric vault — look out across the dunes and sea, creating a setting that moves naturally from relaxed days into softly lit evenings.

Dunluce Lodge is ideally positioned for discovering the Causeway Coast, a region celebrated for its extraordinary natural beauty, from sweeping beaches and cliff walks to the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the historic village of Bushmills. Bespoke local experiences and guided excursions can be arranged, allowing guests to explore at their own pace.At Dunluce Lodge, luxury is quiet, personal and deeply connected to place — an ideal setting for a love story - where the landscape, the light and the atmosphere do the rest.

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