Location, location, location! This well-regarded mantra in the hospitality industry is exemplified at Belfast’s voco hotel. Just a short walk from the city center, City Hall, and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shops, this hotel is ideally positioned.
Tucked away in the historic Gasworks district, voco provides a tranquil retreat adjacent to a charming water feature and the scenic Farset River, which lends its name to Belfast (Beal Feirste—Gaeilge for ‘mouth of the Farset’). The nearby green areas are perfect for a leisurely dog walk or a peaceful moment in nature.
Occupying the site of the city’s former gasworks—now repurposed into a series of offices—this 120-room hotel is a jewel of the InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG). As the inaugural voco hotel in Northern Ireland, it is part of a network of 87 properties across 25 nations, launched just seven years ago.
Guests are greeted through two entrances—one leading to a spacious parking area and the other opening onto the serene water feature. The welcoming lobby is furnished with comfy armchairs, settees, and a long wooden table suitable for group work, accommodating ten or more guests, as we noted during our visit.
Inviting Atmosphere
The interior decor showcases vibrant framed artworks reminiscent of early Picasso, along with potted plants and stylish lamps that foster a cozy ambiance. A delightful corner filled with books invites guests to relax next to the reception.
Rory from Derry, who welcomed us at the front desk, epitomized the warm and helpful nature of the staff throughout our two-day stay. The blend of local Belfast personalities along with international staff from countries such as India, Pakistan, and Ghana contributed to the hotel’s charm, harmoniously blending local wit with professionalism.
Dining at POMO Bar & Restaurant
For exquisite dining, make your way to the ground-floor POMO Bar & Restaurant, where Italian cuisine is served in the ambiance of vintage 19th-century architecture. After arriving late from our journey through Ireland, we turned to our outstanding server, Marc Lennon, for his recommendations.
We enjoyed crisp Caesar salads and tender calamari, followed by chicken topped with melted parmesan and creamy mashed potatoes. Complement your meal with an extensive wine list featuring selections from regions like Argentina, Australia, and, naturally, Italy.
Cocktail lovers will appreciate the menu, which includes 13 options, four enticing mocktails, and ten varieties of Irish whiskies, featuring the prestigious 21-year-old Bushmills.
Dessert may prove to be the toughest choice, with indulgent selections like tartufo, tiramisu, and chocolate mousse. The restaurant also features an outdoor terrace for those who enjoy dining al fresco.
Your Cozy Escape
Our spacious suite, 602, boasted floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of lush trees and an aerial glimpse of Belfast’s rooftops. Comfortably appointed with cozy armchairs, a work desk, and contemporary amenities, including coffee and tea-making facilities, it was a haven in itself. The ensuite bathroom featured both a shower and a bathtub for optimum relaxation.
As Belfast rises as a sought-after European destination, voco hotel offers a comforting stay with affable staff, all situated just a ten-minute walk from the city’s key attractions.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
