The Cuan in Strangford, Co. Down, has been named Northern Ireland’s winner in the prestigious The Times and The Sunday Times Best Places to Stay 2025 guide, highlighting its exceptional transformation and dedication to hospitality.
The leading guide, which focuses on elements such as comfort, great service, value for money, personality and warmth, is an essential resource for those seeking the best stays across the UK.
The winners were announced online today (Monday 10 March), with a special supplement to feature in The Sunday Times on Sunday, 16 March.
Described by the judges as “one of Ireland’s best-kept secrets”, The Cuan has been praised for its exceptional evolution. The publication notes:
“The old-fashioned boozer in Co. Down has been taken to new heights with a £1m renovation that’s revamped its rooms and restaurants.”
Richard Brown, Managing Director of the Cuan, said:
“We are absolutely thrilled to be named Northern Ireland’s Best Place to Stay by The Times and The Sunday Times. This prestigious award is a true reflection of our dedicated team, who work tirelessly to create an exceptional experience for our guests.
“This recognition highlights that The Cuan is more than just a place to stay – it’s a destination in the heart of Strangford where visitors can relax, explore, and enjoy outstanding hospitality. We look forward to welcoming many more guests to experience it for themselves.”
Claire Irvin, Head of Travel at The Times and The Sunday Times, highlighted the rigorous selection process behind this year’s awards:
“The judging process for this year’s Best Places to Stay awards has been as rigorous as ever, as our criteria combines with the ever-increasing importance our readers place on value for money in travel to find a shortlist worthy of their visit.
“This value is subjective – our readers covet multiple breaks across the year and are lucky to have the time and money to spend on them – however, each trip needs to be individually unique and memorable. And with international destinations easier than ever before to reach, UK hotels have their work cut out to compete on all levels. Luckily for us, they are rising to the challenge as never before.
“The price points of each hotel chosen may differ, but they all share the same commitment to consistency and excellence that our readers – and their hard-earned cash – deserve.”
Susan d’Arcy, Hotel Expert at The Times and The Sunday Times, added:
“One of the things that has impressed us most when travelling around the country this year is the welcome. Hotel teams appreciate that there’s a lot of choice out there, and they’re really going the extra mile to deliver friendly and knowledgeable service. It makes all the difference to a stay.”