Portrush Adelphi, Northern Ireland

In short…  Opened in April 2025, Marine & Lawn’s Portrush Adelphi is a traditionally cozy boutique hotel, a stone’s throw from The Royal Portrush, recent host of the world’s oldest golf tournament, The Open.

The surroundings… Nestled in the seaside town of Portrush, amidst the ruggedly beautiful landscape of Northern Ireland’s North Coast.

The backstory… A classic Victorian terrace building, originally constructed as three separate townhouses between 1840 and 1859. Having undergone significant refurbishment and modernization over the years, it now boasts 34 tastefully designed rooms alongside the intimate Red Sail Dining Room and Bar, courtesy of Marine & Lawn.

The vibe… An invitingly lit shelter discreetly hidden from the whistling and howling Atlantic wind whipping at your coattails. Think parquet wooden floors paired with tartan wallpaper and richly leathered banquettes, all ensconced in a warm glow befitting a conspiratorial libation. 

The rooms… During my two nights at the Adelphi, I stayed in one of the Deluxe King rooms: achingly spongy carpets to soak up all the hard miles chalked up on one of the many pristine beaches nearby, an enormous king-sized bed you’ll just want to collapse into at the end of the day, and a relatively comfortable and spacious seating area on the outside chance that you have to fire off a few emails before dinner.

The ensuite contains one of the biggest showers I’ve ever laid eyes on, as well as an assortment of products from London perfumer Floris, the oldest retailer of toiletries and fragrances in the UK, which was a welcome touch. 

The wellness… There are apparently plans on deck for a gym, but until that comes to fruition there is complimentary bike rental available throughout the year. 

My suggestion would be to make haste to one of the many scenic locations and/or walks only a short drive from the hotel itself: Whitepark Bay Beach, Kinbane Castle, Ballintoy Harbour or Glenariff Forest will get the legs pumping and that fresh, Irish air into your lungs.

The food… The Red Sail Dining Room and Bar serves Italian fare with a smattering of locally sourced produce throughout the menu.

I kicked the evening off with a Portrush Negroni (recipe as you’d expect, but the gin is from Belfast distillery Jawbox), then a caprese salad followed by the crab linguine and, on the recommendation from Declan, washed it all down with a glass of Zensa Fiano.

Extra tip goes to… Michelle and Jane, especially Jane, with her wide range of local knowledge of the area that introduced me to a few spots even I hadn’t known about.

Be sure to… Explore the coastline. Look, you don’t have to be “The Golden Bear” (aka Jack Nicklaus) to enjoy a stay at Adelphi Portrush. The wild and rugged North Coast has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, wild swimmers, surfers, and snorkelers alike.

And you can’t make a trip to the coast without enjoying a pint of Guinness at The Harbour Bar. Be sure to bring a book and warm yourself by the open fire in the snug.

Parting words… I’ve lived within driving distance of this beautiful area of Northern Ireland for some time now and to have a gem like this on my doorstep… It’s about time.

Date of stay…  October 14th-16th 2025