Just a few minutes walk across the Peace Bridge from the city centre on the other side of the River Foyle, Derry's landmark Ebrington Square has waited a long time for its potential to be fulfilled - but that came a step closer in July 2023 with the opening of the four-star Ebrington Hotel and Spa. A welcome addition to the buzzing Derry scene, it has given momentum to existing businesses nearby, such as the excellent Walled City Brewery (see entry), and created a spacious public area that can be used for outdoor concerts and events.
The hotel occupies five handsome military buildings dating back to 1842, which have been transformed complete with the square's iconic clocktower and modern additions, to create the city's first destination spa and a luxurious old-meets-new hotel with views of the Peace Bridge and the whole city. An appealing base for leisure and business visitors alike, it's ideally located for visiting the Walled City on foot and for exploring the scenic North Coast.
Aiming to combine modern luxury and Georgian style in the former barracks, the striking interior design is modern - in both the guest rooms and the spacious public areas, meeting rooms and an impressive events suite for weddings and other functions.
The food operation is overseen by well known chef Noel McMeel - formerly of Lough Erne Resort in Co Fermanagh and known for his support of local produce - although he may not always be on site. Casual dining is available in the Corner House Pub & Lounge, while the main Oak Room Restaurant offers formal dining in a glitzy, brightly lit room with helpful, nicely turned out young staff. Floor to ceiling windows make the most of the view across the river to the city and there's a pleasant outdoor seating area for fine weather.
Simply written and inventive menus (with local suppliers named and allergies shown) give a choice of about six starters and main courses, including a vegetarian option, with a supplement likely on some dishes (eg steak,£10). Staff are helpful with the menus, which typically include popular choices like starters of ham terrine and duck confit and mains of loin of pork or lamb, with generous side vegetables. Desserts might include a classical hot soufflé with seasonal fruit, such as blackcurrant, and ever-popular pannacotta - and there will probably be a local Dart Mountain Cheese selection (£9 supplement).
Breakfast is also served in the Oak Room Restaurant - a bright place to start the day and discuss all the potential places to visit and things to do, which could well include some interesting tours in the city and the area, and perhaps an expedition to the Giant's Causeway, or a hop across to Donegal on the ferry.
