Galgorm Resort & Spa, River Room - Ballymena

Set in more than 100 acres of lush parkland close to the River Maine and some of Northern Ireland's most scenic attractions, Galgorm is a lavish Victorian mansion that has been impressively converted into a resort hotel and spa.

Formal meals are served in the aptly named River Room, which has great views of the water - thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows. In exclusive, intimate surroundings, guests can look forward to contemporary dishes along the lines of lasagne of Ibérico ham and langoustines with chestnut emulsion, roast and poached pigeon with essence of prunes and foie gras, and venison cutlet with sautéed sweetbreads and mead syrup. To finish, try green cardamom brûlée with coconut ice and pineapple.

Casual food is also available every day in Gillies Bar & Grill (think sizzling chicken fajitas, Thai curries, burgers and steaks). Live music every Friday night, and seasonal barbecues in the Bollinger Garden.