Special Places to Stay - More than a bed for the night

Belfast has a buoyant, contemporary cultural life and staying at Ravenhill will connect you to those vibes. The centre is 10 minutes by bus and there's lots of life within walking distance, the Real Music Club for example. Running this bright and well-loved B&B in a leafy district of smart Victorian houses, the Nicholsons are a young and enthusiastic couple. Roger, from the north of England, loves the buzz of his adopted city and is glad to share its sights and secrets. Olive, from Westmeath, is warm and friendly, faultlessly juggling the B&B and a busy family life. Ravenhill has a cheerful lived-in atmosphere, people come and go, the city moves past the triple-glazed windows. Good-sized bedrooms are done with soothing cream walls, Roberts radios, the odd Barbara Allen print and locally-made ash and oak furniture with purple heart trim. There's a sitting room with books, a piano, log fire and internet connection. Entirely local or organic, breakfast is mouth-watering: Roger is proud of his authentic Ulster breakfasts with homemade bread and marmalade a speciality – not to be hurried.