Bushmills Inn Hotel

The Bushmills Inn has the sort of character golfers tend to like: traditional features, cosy communal spaces and rooms that feel individual rather than cookie-cutter. Interiors lean classic, with exposed oak beams and period furniture, but you're still getting the practical comforts that matter on a golf break, namely a comfortable bed, a quiet night and a good base to dry out after a proper north coast blow.

Rooms are thoughtfully appointed, blending period charm with modern amenities to ensure a restful stay after a long day on the course. The discreet accommodation reflects the building's inherent character throughout, with each room offering its own sense of place rather than a standardised hotel feel. It's the kind of setup that works whether you're here for a quick overnight or settling in for a longer tour of the region's courses.

Location is the big win. Royal Portrush is the obvious draw, but staying in Bushmills also keeps you close to the wider Causeway Coast run, which is ideal if your group wants variety across a few rounds without spending half the trip in the car. For societies, it's also the right sort of place to regroup after golf and swap stories in the bar, with enough space to spread out but not so large that it loses the personal touch.

Food and drink are a key part of the experience here. The Gas Bar is the hotel's Victorian-style pub, and it's exactly where you'll want to end up after 18 holes, whether that's for a pint, a hearty meal or something a bit special from the whisky list. If you're feeling flush, there's the option of a 25-year-old Bushmills malt, though the standard pour is more than respectable after a day battling the wind on a proper links test.

The Taste of Ulster restaurant focuses on local County Antrim produce, which is a nice match for the setting and a welcome change from generic hotel dining. Menus showcase seasonal ingredients and local suppliers, with dishes that feel rooted in the region without being overly formal. It's the kind of place that works for couples who want a quality dinner as much as it does for groups who want a relaxed, sociable evening that doesn't feel stiff. The welcoming atmosphere and homely environment make it easy to settle in for the night, especially when you know there's another round waiting in the morning.