The River Bann - rich in eels for roasting and smoking and in salmon from poaching - flows out of Lough Neagh. On its left bank are the towns and fortifications of the 17th-century Planters, built by London's Livery Companies, whose descendants developed the linen industry. Today, virtually all of that rural industrial heritage is gone, with the notable exception of the village of Upperlands. Make sure you tour William Clark and Sons, a working linen mill where age-old wooden machinery still beetles (polishes by pounding with hammers) threads for the linen linings of suits for England's Royals. There's also a small linen museum here.

Where to Stay & Eat

Fodor's Choice:

Ardtara Country House. A 19th-century Victorian home, Ardtara was built by a descendant of the founder of the town's first linen mill. Eight large bedrooms are furnished with antiques, each has a fireplace-as do some of the marble bathrooms. The terra-cotta and pink drawing room, with plaster moldings and a marble fireplace, looks out on the wide front lawn and tennis court. The The hotel's restaurant is in the former snooker room, with dark panels and a wallpapered hunting scene. The terrine of duck appetizer is popular, as is the stellar poached fillet of lamb with buttered Savoy cabbage entrée. Restaurant, tennis court, meeting room

The warmth of the surroundings at this splendid Victorian house is matched only by the warmth of the awaiting welcome. With the old style service and vast array of antiques, it will appear that you are stepping back in time, except that all the facilities belong very much to the present day. Exquisitely furnished throughout, you'll find all the comfort and atmosphere expected by the most discerning visitor.

Whether your stay is for business or pleasure, you are sure to experience the efficiency and service, which affirms Ardtara's reputation as one of Ireland's most distinguished country houses. Fantastic cuisine awaits you in the equally impressive dining room. The menu features the very best of fresh local produce in a range of country house cooking that perfectly reflects the 'Taste of Ulster'.

Ardtara is a delightful, high quality Victorian country house set in 8 acres of mature gardens and woodland. The stylish public rooms include a choice of lounges and a sunroom, whilst the elegant period dining room sets the perfect venue for enjoying the skilfully prepared cuisine. Bedrooms vary in style and size; all are richly furnished with fine antiques, open fires and well-equipped bathrooms

19C house with a charming atmosphere. The interior features "objets trouvés" collected from owner's travels; original fireplaces set off the individually styled bedrooms. Restaurant set in former billiard room with hunting mural and panelled walls.

The eight luxurious bedrooms are each individually styled and offer panoramic views across the extensive eight acres of grounds. Furnished throughout with antiques, Ardtara House will satisfy the most discerning of visitors and is certainly one of the most distinguished country houses in Northern Ireland. The cuisine at Ardtara matches the quality of the surroundings and the menu, which features the best in fresh local produce, perfectly reflects the "Taste of Ulster".

First and foremost, Ardtara House is a veritable golfer's paradise, located within 45 minutes of four top class golf courses including Royal Portrush and Portstewart. There is plenty to do and see in the area when not playing golf. Whether shopping in nearby Derry or Ballymena or taking in the many attractions, including the spectacular coastline, the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge, the Bushmills Whiskey Distillery or the world-famous Giant's Causeway, Ardtara Country House really is an excellent base from which to explore and discover.