Lough Mill House, Newtownabbey

County Antrim. Sleeps up to 4

Nestled in the suburb of Newtownabbey, County Antrim, is Whiteabbey Village. Overlooking the spraying sea on the shore road is this old mill workers terrace, Lough Mill House. The house was built by the Whiteabbey Flax Spinning & Weaving Company around 1900 for their workers. According to the locals, this house was one of only a handful of 3 storey houses, which only mill supervisors and their families were able to inhabit - regular workers and their families got a 2 storey, one bedroom terrace. Coal for the mill was brought into a number of piers - the only one to survive is Legg Pier, in front of the house. Just across the road from a beach and within easy reach of the bustling city of Belfast, this two-bedroom terrace is a superb base for a small family or four friends. Park up at the rear of the property before stepping inside to discover the beautifully presented open-plan living space. Unwind with a cup of tea on the sofa or enjoy heart-warming meals at the dining table, either while enjoying the view over the lough. Discover the contemporary kitchen, hosting an oven, hob and microwave to rustle up tasty dishes and make use of the dishwasher for a fuss-free clean! Throw open the door on the garden furniture whilst admiring the refreshing sea breeze; why not savour a glass of wine to relish your getaway? As the evening cools, retire inside and follow the oak parquet flooring to choose between two bedrooms, a super-king-size and a twin bedroom, which both enjoy scenic views of the coast. All beds have Hypnos wool mattresses, Hypnos wool mattress protectors, Hypnos and Dorma pillows and hotel quality bedding. The terrace sits on a busy main road. While its windows are high quality new double glazed, for light sleepers there are complimentary earplugs – a light sleeper might struggle for the first night if you are not used to background noise. Awaken tired eyes with a rinse in the en-suite shower room or indulge in a soothing soak in the bathroom, well-presented in stylish tiles and luxury Towels. A stroll across the road will lead you to the beach, where you can enjoy walking and swimming. There’s a public slipway handy for launching kayaks and paddleboards. If that's not for you why not test your swing at Fortwilliam Golf Course? Whiteabbey village has two restaurants, three takeaways, a pharmacy, Spar convenience shop (with hot food counter and post office), a wine bar, pub, florist, laundrette/dry cleaner, two hairdressers, a pet hairdresser, an art cafe and not least, a locally famous Maud’s ice cream shop that has to be on anyone’s to do list. Also visit Jordanstown Loughshore Park and Children’s Playpark which is only 0.5 miles away. The nearby historical town of Carrickfergus, complete with 12th century castle boasts a marina which has short term berthing facilities for holidaying sailing enthusiasts. The town has a public pool with its own pirate ship, perfect for keeping all the family entertained! A great base from which to explore the world famous Causeway Coastal route from your door step or via with the M5 motorway a short drive away! Visit the Giant Causeway, Carrick a Rede rope bridge, Mussenden Temple or one of the many beaches. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan you’ll want to visit the many filming locations including those dark hedges. There are so many things to see and do on the Causeway coast but it’s yours to explore! If you fancy some city delights, nip seven miles down the M2 to Belfast. You’ll find the Titanic museum and neighbouring Titanic Hotel, the original drawing offices of Harland and Wolf where the Titanic was designed. You can explore the history of Belfast and visit former hot spots of the troubles including the peace wall; still closed every night. The heart of the city hosts a plethora of great eateries and high street stores. If something between coast and city appeals, head to Belfast zoo but keep climbing the hill behind it to reach the imposing Belfast Castle. If you keep climbing, you’ll reach Napoleons Nose; the top of the Cave Hill where you will be rewarded with breath taking views of the City, across Belfast lough and down the County Down coast line to the historic town of Bangor. Hill walkers will be spoilt for choice between the Antrim Hills and Mourne Mountains. It doesn’t get any easier for golf lovers with Royal County Down less than an hour away and Royal Portrush an hour away! For seaside views and much to see and do, choose Lough Mill House.