10 Ways to Indulge in Five-Star Luxury this Festive Season

From festive afternoon tea to fabulous New Year's Eve celebrations, here's 10 ways to enjoy a truly magical Christmas this year in one of Belfast's most luxurious hotels...


  1. Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree – The hotel’s festive season officially begins in November with the arrival of The Merchant’s iconic 25ft Christmas tree. Standing tall in all its festive finery amidst the splendour of The Great Room Restaurant, months are spent planning the décor for the impressive tree which takes over six hours to decorate. This year’s theme is under wraps for now, but it’s sure to dazzle and delight.
  2. Party pampering – Indulge in time away from the hustle and bustle and prep for this year’s party season in the tranquillity of The Spa at The Merchant.  Enjoy the wonderful treatments on offer including facials, mud wraps and stress relief massages, as well as waxing, lash and brow tinting, tanning and nail treatments. Or alternatively, relax with a pampering treatment after the hectic Christmas season is over.
  3. Festive afternoon tea – Served on a three-tiered silver stand, afternoon tea at The Merchant has become an iconic treat in the city. From December 1, guests can enjoy this elegant experience with a festive twist including turkey, chestnut stuffing and cranberry sauce finger sandwiches, traditional Christmas cake and seasonal macarons, alongside mulled wine fruit scones with clotted cream and delicious patisseries. Guests can also enjoy live music from 12.30pm until 4.30pm and add a special touch to the occasion with a glass of Champagne. Starting at £31 per person.
  4. Christmas cocktails by the open fire – With a roaring fire and award-winning drinks, The Cocktail Bar is a perfect place to relax this Christmas. Created by expert mixologists, you can enjoy a selection of festive drinks and winter warmers alongside the bar’s existing cocktail list over the festive season.
  5. Give the gift of luxury – Stuck for Christmas gift ideas? A Merchant gift card will guarantee a smile from your loved ones this year. Offering countless possibilities, from luxurious overnight stays, pampering spa treatments and cocktails in the world-class Cocktail Bar to fine dining in the grandeur of The Great Room and live music in Berts Jazz Bar, an experience at The Merchant will make a big impression this year. E-vouchers are also available online, perfect to take the hassle out of Christmas shopping or for last-minute Christmas purchases.
  6. Dine on festive food – If you fancy an intimate room to host a private dinner party, canapés in a themed winter roof garden with panoramic views, comfort food in The Cloth Ear, the sleek elegance of the art deco era in Berts Jazz Bar or the ultimate fine dining experience in The Great Room Restaurant, The Merchant has you covered. With a variety of festive packages to suit every budget and some of the best local food on offer, there will be plenty of festive cheer this year.
  7. Do it differently – Christmas is all about traditions but if you want to experience it in a new way this year, the festive experience package is for you. Arrive at the hotel on Christmas Eve for a delicious afternoon tea including a visit from Santa and live music from a traditional silver band. Then wake up in style on Christmas morning in one of the hotel’s Art Deco or Victorian bedrooms before enjoying breakfast, canapes, bubbly and a delicious six course lunch. The next day, have a relaxing start to Boxing Day in the rooftop hot tub before enjoying a French bistro-style menu at Berts Jazz Bar for dinner. Festive shopping packages and New Year’s Eve packages are also available.
  8. Bring in the New Year – Make this New Year’s Eve one to remember. Dine in style in The Great Room Restaurant and enjoy either a three course or five course sumptuous dining experience or join Berts Jazz Bar for a decadent start to the New Year with live jazz, bubbly and a four-course supper.
  9. Kick start your resolution – Get a head start on your New Year’s resolution and sign-up to The Gym at The Merchant to get your fitness on track. It is fully equipped with state-of-the-art machines and facilities and includes stunning panoramic views of Belfast and a rooftop hot tub, helping you to improve your lifestyle, achieve your goals and meet new friends in a luxurious space.
  10. Christmas shopping pit-stop – Nestled in the heart of the Cathedral Quarter, The Cloth Ear is the perfect place to rest your feet after a long day of Christmas shopping. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or none of the above, The Cloth Ear’s pub grub menus cater for everyone. Or if you don’t fancy food, simply relax in front of the fire with a craft beer or selection of Irish or International whiskies.

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