The city of Armagh is in the southern part of Northern Ireland, 40 miles southwest of the capital, Belfast. According to the Discover Ireland website, Armagh is "the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland" and is the seat of both the Catholic and Protestant archbishops. The city, which has a history stretching back 6500 years, is home to such historic sites as the St. Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral, which Saint Patrick built in 445 A.D.; along with archaeological sites including Navan Fort, which dates from at least the Iron Age. Visitors traveling to Armagh will find comfortable hotels that offer all necessary amenities and easy access to the city's attractions.
Described by Discover Ireland as the "ultimate in luxury," Armagh City Hotel is set in landscaped gardens overlooking the city. The hotel is just a three-minute walk from the County Armagh Golf Club, which was established in 1893. All 82 bedrooms feature wireless Internet and cable television, and those staying in Executive rooms can enjoy private balconies. Along with free parking, facilities include a beauty salon and the area's largest fitness center with a 16-meter swimming pool, steam room, whirlpool and sauna. The hotel's Friary restaurant serves international dishes prepared using fresh local produce, and guests can choose between two bars: the lively Spires Bar, which shows live sports events on large screens, or the cozier Callan Bar, which features a fireplace and live music on Friday and Saturday nights.
Armagh City Hotel
2 Friary Road
Armagh BT60 4FR
United Kingdom
011-44-028-3751-8888
armaghcityhotel.com
The Charlemont Arms Hotel is a family-run establishment that occupies a building dating from the 19th century. The hotel is situated in the city center, a five-minute walk from the St. Patrick's Church of Ireland Cathedral. The hotel has 30 modern and stylish guest rooms--recently renovated as of late 2010--and offers secure parking, and Internet access in the reception area. Lonely Planet notes the hotel's charming period decor, which features Victorian fireplaces and oakwood paneling. The Hotel Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and traditional dinners that include steaks and mixed grills. The on-site Turner's Bar serves drinks and snacks and features two original fireplaces, nooks and snugs; there is also a downstairs wine bar and cafe.
Charlemont Arms Hotel
57-65 Upper English St.
Armagh BT60
United Kingdom
011-44-028-3752-2028
charlemontarmshotel.com
De Averell House is just a five-minute walk from both the Armagh Observatory and Armagh Planetarium, which holds astronomical shows for visitors of all ages. De Averell House offers guesthouse-style accommodations in a converted Georgian town house. The house has six guest rooms, including a top-floor apartment that can fit four adults. Lonely Planet advises that the twin room at the back of the house is the quietest and that those at the front can be noisy. Although there is no on-site restaurant, there are several within a five-minute walk, including Manor Park French Restaurant, winner of Best Restaurant in County Armagh in the 2010 Irish Best Restaurants Awards.
De Averell House
47 Upper English St.
Armagh BT61 7LA
United Kingdom
011-44-028-3751-1213
deaverellhouse.net
