Culloden Hotel

Set amid 12 acres of beautifully landscaped and sculpture-dotted gardens, this former 19th century bishop's palace offers sweet escape from the downtown melee. Views of Belfast Lough add a tranquil air, yet the city centre is a mere six miles away. The sumptuous interior boasts fine antiques, striking stained glass windows, Louis XV chandeliers and the elegant Mitre Restaurant. Rooms are equally opulent and range from the traditional luxury of the original building to the stylish and sophisticated new executives - and all have iPod docks, plasma TVs and toy ducks in tux (for bathtime and take home fun). The more informal Cultra Inn bar/restaurant is in front of the hotel's helipad - handy for all those visiting VIPs from U2 to Tony Blair. Sumptuous suites and an ESPA Spa confirm Culloden's five star status.