Belfast’s Merchant Hotel has topped a poll naming it as the most romantic destination in Belfast following an online vote by Visit Belfast.

Almost a third of voters chose the iconic Cathedral Quarter hotel in an online poll to help celebrate St Valentine’s Day and find Belfast’s most loved-up locations. Shortlisted ‘hot spots’ included, Belfast Castle, Victoria Square’s Dome,  Botanic Gardens and the Culloden Estate and Spa, which came a close second in the line-up. However, the five-star Merchant Hotel, which boasts a blend of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco, topped the poll with 31% of the Valentine’s vote, winning over visitors with its luxury spa, jazz bar and the stunning Great Room restaurant in the heart of the city’s Cathedral Quarter.

Gavin Carroll, General Manager at The Merchant Hotel said:

“We are delighted the public has voted The Merchant as the most romantic place in Belfast. Care and consideration has been taken over the years to create a luxurious setting that lends itself to intimate occasions. We’re honoured that The Merchant has been chosen as the place where, time and time again, many of our guests choose to celebrate special occasions and make cherished memories together.”

The final top ten list of Belfast’s most romantic destinations were as follows:

1.    The Merchant Hotel – 31%

2.    Hastings Culloden Estate and Spa – 25%

3.    Belfast Castle – 12%

4.    Grand Opera House – 11%

5.    Botanic Gardens – 7%

6.    Cave Hill – 7%

7.    Victoria Square’s Dome – 4%

8.    Mourne Seafood Bar – 2%

9.    Stormont Estate – 1%

10.  Crown Liquor Saloon – 1%

For anyone still on the look-out for something romantic to do this weekend, cupid’s help is at hand from the team at the Visit Belfast Welcome Centre who can provide inspiration, ideas and information on the latest visitor attractions and events which offer the perfect way to spend time with your Valentine.

For more information on these destinations and others, visit www.visit-belfast.com

Where is your most romantic place?