From top to bottom, the island nation of Northern Ireland (not counting its southern half, the Republic of Ireland) is saturated in stunning natural beauty and world-famous geological sites that are as ancient as the trademark myth and lore that pervades their culture. Travel as far north as the wild and barely habited Rathlin Island (current population: 150) for seabirds, cliffside trekking, and a remote island landscape, or go road trippin’ along Northern Ireland’s iconic Causeway Coast route, home to the country’s only UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giants Causeway.
Farther south, explore must-see landmarks like the Mourne Mountains where there are ample opportunities for climbing and hiking, the sprawling County Fermanagh’s many castles, lakes, farms, and cities like Belfast, Londonderry (aka Derry), or scenic Enniskillen. And if all else fails, there’s always the self-guided Game of Thrones filming location tour, if that’s your thing.
In Northern Ireland, a perfect way to getaway without roughing it is glamping. A combination of “glamourous” and “camping”, glamping is a global travel trend that blends outdoor adventure travel with resort-style accommodations, making it as popular with staycation lovers as travelers coming from far and wide. Northern Ireland has unique places to stay like luxury glamping pods, beautiful bothies, renovated shepherd’s huts, and idyllic forest spas that allow you to spend time outside and relax in comfort.
From picturesque glamping pods and modern treehouses to bubble domes and classic bell tents, we’ve searched high and low to bring you the following ten best places for a Northern Ireland glamping holiday.
The 10 Best Glamping Sites in Northern Ireland
Enniskeen Estate & Forest Spa - Newry, Mourne and Down, UK
Vibe: Riverside Retreat
Just a mile from the beach, on the banks of a flowing river is a cottage-esque hideout that’s perfect for escaping everyday life. The smooth, rounded silhouette creates an uber-cosy feel inside that might tempt you to remain indoors if it weren’t for the riverfront hot tub, sauna, and winding trails that are right outside your door.
Rate: £308/night
Shepherd's Hut - Bangor, UK
Vibe: Sweet and Simple
This little shepherd's hut is located on the banks of a lake. Besides a cozy, simple interior, there's a wood-fired hot-tub too, so all your bases are covered. The stunning grounds are enchanting enough to keep you home-bound, but for some restaurants and shopping, the seaside town of Donaghadee is close by.
Rate: £224/night
Burrenmore Nest - Castlerock, UK
Vibe: Elevated Glamping
Located on the North Coast a short walk to Fair Head and a quick drive from Coleraine, Limavady, and Ballymoney, this boutique “forest lodge” is set up high in a green canopy of trees yet within reach of the sea. Each of the four modern cabins features king-size beds and floor-to-ceiling viewing windows to surround guests with relaxing sights of nature. Modern in design with enough woodsy and rustic touches to make it homey, the property features complimentary wifi and breakfast, and best of all, a dreamy moss-covered hot tub.
Rate: Starts at £225/night
Sperrinview Glamping - Cookstown, UK
Vibe: Secluded Star Gazer
Situated in one of Northern Ireland’s Dark Sky Sites, at the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains, these A-Frame cabin pods feature a cosy interior with a large, triangular window in the bedroom for unobstructed mountain views and fantastic the night sky stargazing. Venture out to explore the area’s emerald pastures where you can follow trails dotted with ancient stone circles dating back to the Neolithic era. At night, a private fire pit (BYO marshmallows) and outdoor bbq await, making this listing a fun couples retreat and family glamping experience too.
Rate: £105/night
Finnlough Bubble Domes - Enniskillen, UK
Vibe: In a Nature Bubble
Located in the southwest of Northern Ireland near Carrickreagh Bay on the edge of Lough Erne, this property is nothing but unique. Here, the only thing that’s separating you from actually being totally immersed in nature are the totally transparent circular walls of these unique bubble domes. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the forest and unmatched stargazing in your own private dome home, complete with a bespoke four-poster bed, fluffy bath robes, and a freestanding stone tub. Onsite amenities like a lakeside sauna and hydro spa are also available.
Rate: Starts at £325/night
Pebble Pods - Strangford Lough, UK
Vibe: A Stone’s Throw Away
Set on the shores of Strangford Lough, Pebble Pods is a popular glamping destination with a private hot tub, fire pit and bbq area, and lake views throughout. With four cosy pods to choose from, the well manicured resort is perfect for couples or friend groups on holiday. Go for a kayak, paddleboard, swim, or simply stay put and enjoy the views.
Rate: £165/night
Willowtree Glamping - Newry, UK
Vibe: Magic in the Mourne Mountains
Set at the foot of the Mourne Mountain range, this adults-only getaway offers visitors rustic log cabins with rough-hewn siding, yurts filled with eclectic decor, and a handcrafted shepherd’s hut. Each accommodation features mountain views and a whimsical, down-to-earth feel that fits with the Mourne’s rugged granite peaks—a bubbling outdoor hot tub is the cherry on top.
Rate: Starts at £150/night
Further Space Glamping Pods at Carrikreagh Bay - Enniskillen, UK
Vibe: Lakefront Luxury
Each of the eight comfy, cosy pods at Further Space are fully-stocked with modern conveniences, walking distance from the water and area’s hiking trails, and feature wonderful lake views of Lough Erne—with kayaks available for rent. Paddle or swim around Carrikreagh Bay, relax at the glampsite, or bbq on an open fire under the stars in the beautifully landscapes common seating area.
Rate: £125/night
Sycamore Pods - Larne, UK
Vibe: Coastal Basecamp
Centrally located to several of Northern Ireland’s most popular outdoor destinations (Giants Causeway, Dark Hedges, Carrick a Rede Rope Bridge), the Sycamore Pods are an ideal basecamp for adventure-filled day trips. Set in a scenic field of wildflowers, each inviting pod has a wood burning stove and its own private hot tub boasting panoramic views of the lush, coastal surroundings.
Rate: Starts at £160/night
Causeway Country Pods - Bushmills, UK
Vibe: Pastoral and Peaceful
The warmth of the rich wood-paneled interior makes the Causeway Country Pod a cosy hideaway amidst the rolling countryside of Northern Ireland’s famous North Antrim coastline—and just a quick trip from nearby Ballycastle. Inside, the heated pods have a kitchenette, ensuite bathroom, and all the necessary comforts, plus, a private hot tub to enjoy a peaceful soak by the sea.
Rate: £180/night
Published 05-16-2023
Updated 08-29-2023
