Nestled in the heart of Derry, The Ebrington Hotel is redefining luxury stays in Northern Ireland, offering visitors an exceptional blend of historic charm and modern indulgence. Whether you’re exploring Derry’s thriving food scene, unwinding in the spa, or indulging in a fine dining experience, this riverside retreat provides everything needed for a memorable getaway. From its stunning rooms, world-class hospitality, and an unmissable culinary offering, The Ebrington Hotel stands out as a top-rated destination for travellers seeking luxury accommodation in Derry.

Derry was a city filled with trouble and strife which changed to a city full of history and character, and now, it’s creating a name for itself on the food and drink scene, making it an unmissable stop for any culinary-loving traveller. On my latest trip across the water, I checked into The Ebrington Hotel, a stunning luxury retreat that feels just as much a part of Derry’s cultural revival as the buzzing restaurants and cafés surrounding it. Read my article about the food and drink scene HERE.

DERRY IS EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY AIR, TRAIN AND CAR

Getting to Derry from Edinburgh, Glasgow, or London is pretty easy, with plenty of travel options to suit different budgets and schedules.

For the quickest routes, flights from Edinburgh and Glasgow to City of Derry Airport take just over an hour, making it an effortless hop across the water. London travellers can fly into Belfast International or Belfast City Airport, both of which offer regular connections to Derry via train or bus.

If you prefer a scenic journey, train and bus combinations from Edinburgh and Glasgow take around 5–6 hours, with connections via Belfast. From London, its better to travel via Liverpool or Belfast, followed by onward travel to Derry.

If you’ve chosen to drive, head to Cairnryan, onto the ferry to Belfast, and then drive to Derry—a great option if you want to explore Northern Ireland at your own pace.

My route was flying Edinburgh to Belfast and then a taxi straight to Derry which cost about £80.

Whether you’re flying in for a weekend foodie escape or taking the scenic route, Derry is well-connected and easy to reach, making it a perfect getaway for those looking to dive into its thriving food and drink scene.

First Impressions & A Grand Welcome

The Ebrington Hotel is the first place that catches your eye, as you walk over the Peace Bridge. The hotel stands like a guardian with its sweeping views over the River Foyle and Derry city beyond. As soon as I walked inside the hotel, I was met with genuine warmth from the staff, the kind of hospitality that makes all the difference after a long journey.

The reception area is most impressive, with two grand entrances, a striking floral centrepiece, and an atmosphere that instantly sets the tone for a relaxing and refined stay. After a long journey there’s space to unwind in the plush seating areas, take a visit to the spa to truly remove the stress, or if you want a cocktail, The Ebrington has you covered.

Rooms with a View & Thoughtful Touches

My room was gorgeous, it had an air of understated luxury. The double bed, was so inviting with pristine white cotton sheets, while the muted tones—soft greys and blues popped in the headboard and cushions—gave the space a calming, elegant feel.

One of my favourite features? A marble desk spanning an entire wall, thoughtfully designed to double up as a workspace, vanity station, and tea/coffee nook—ideal for both winding down and fuelling up for the day ahead. Thoughtful little touches like complimentary cartons of Irish water and a couple of cookies added a lovely nod to local hospitality.

Of course, the modern amenities were all there—a wall-mounted flat-screen TV, USB ports by the bedside, a safe, wardrobe, iron, and hairdryer, ensuring both comfort and convenience.

My only ick was that my room was located at the back of the hotel, overlooking air ducts on the roof and a tarpaulin sheet that rattled in the wind constantly!

I fell in love with the bathroom — all that sleek white marble throughout, with an incredible rainfall shower that felt like the ultimate spa indulgence. Every detail of the room was curated with style and functionality in mind, from the light on the mirror, to the complimentary toiletries. It truly felt like a wee piece of luxury.

Dining at The Ebrington Hotel

The dining experiences at The Ebrington has options to suit every mood. By evening, the restaurant transforms, offering both a fine dining selection for those looking for an elegant meal and hearty, comforting plates for those wanting something a little more indulgent.

You’ll take your breakfast here too, with a vast buffet alongside a cooked menu, which is great if you fancy a light bite or starving and need a belly busting breakie!

Next door, the pub is more relaxed offering cocktails, tea and coffee, pints, large screen TV’s for sports. It’s worth stopping here mid to late afternoon for tea and scones! They are seriously tasty.

Spa Bliss: The Ultimate Escape

For me, the spa at The Ebrington is the cherry on the cake. Much like Scotland, Derry has its fair share of four seasons in one day, and when it’s lashing or feeling a bit dreich outside, there’s no better way to escape the elements than with a luxurious spa session.

There’s a small but perfect rejuvenating pool and a steam room and sauna, offering the ultimate way to relax and warm your bones after a day of exploring. Whether you’ve been exploring the Derry murals or taking in a food tour, an hour in the spa is the perfect reset before heading out for another round of adventure.

Exploring Ebrington & Beyond

What makes The Ebrington even more special is its location in a buzzing riverside district of Ebrington that’s packed with hidden gems. A must-visit is to head to The Ebrington Bakery for doughnuts and coffee for taking over the Peace Bridge. There are several charming cafés offering lunches with relaxed vibes, but Stitch & Weave, is an absolute gem of a restaurant, and bar right on the river front and delivers plates worthy of any food lover’s attention.

For those keen on art and culture, there’s Ebrington Square and the Mute Meadow art installation compromising of 40 pairs of columns. And if you’re partial to a good craft pint, the local Walled City Brewery right next door to the hotel, will sort you out.

The Ebrington Hotel is wonderful. It’s a perfect blend of luxury, charm, and top-tier hospitality. Whether you’re here for a weekend of eating and drinking (which I highly recommend), looking to see the Derry Girls mural and find out more about Northern Irelands past, this spot ticks all the boxes.

If you’re planning a food-fuelled trip across the water, put The Ebrington Hotel firmly on your list!

THINGS TO NOTE ABOUT THE EBRINGTON HOTEL

4 Star luxury hotel
Free high speed wi-fi
Pool and spa
Rooms have air conditioning
Restaurant is 2 AA Rosette
Free parking nearby
Rooms are approximately £160 per night depending on time of year

Ebrington Hotel, 69-72 Ebrington Square, Derrt, BT47 6FA www.theebringtonhotel.com/

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer and judge living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events), is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards. Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk

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A Luxury Stay in Derry Ireland : The Ebrington Hotel Through a Scottish Food & Travel Lens