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Newforge House

John and Louise Mathers’ fine Georgian country house is less than half an hour’s drive south west of Belfast, and handy to both Belfast International and City airports and Ferry Terminal - yet, in a wonderful setting of mature trees, gardens and green fields on the edge of the quiet village of Magheralin, it feels like worlds away.

The property - which is substantial - was built around 1785 and has been in the Mathers family for six generations.

Following major renovations the Mathers opened John’s former family home as a guesthouse in 2005, and it now offers luxurious accommodation in stylish, individually decorated rooms (all with beautiful bathrooms, five of which have separate bath and shower), a period drawing room with an open log fire, and a fine dining room where John takes pride in presenting meals based mostly on local and organic produce - which can be taken at separate tables or as a group.

It is a lovely spot for a short break (various special offers are available) and makes a perfect setting for special occasions, including weddings (which can be in a marquee in the garden for larger numbers), smaller celebrations, or corporate events.

Rooms 6 (5 with separate bath & shower, 1 shower only, all no smoking). B&B £60 pps, ss £20. Unsuitable for children 1-10 years (cot available free of charge, high chair); free broadband wi/fi; wheelchair accessible on ground floor, including toilet facilities; bedrooms are upstairs & not wheelchair accessible. Dining Room seats 22. D daily 7-8.30 (to 9 Fri/Sat); Sun & Mon light dinner only; Set 2/3 course D £28.50/35; Vegetarian meals on request; House wine £15. No smoking house. Croquet, garden. Fishing (fly &coarse), golf, garden visits and watersports nearby. Closed 24 Dec - 8 Jan. MasterCard, Visa, Switch.

Directions:

M1 from Belfast to Craigavon until junction for A3 to Moira; through Moira to Magheralin then turn left at Byrnes Pub (on the corner) onto Newforge Road. Continue for 2 minutes until the National Speed Limit signs; black and white sign for Newforge House on the left. Next left through entrance in stone wall; take first right turn and park in front of the house.