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Close to Queen’s University, and adjacent to both the Ulster Museum and Botanic Gardens, is the Harrison Chambers of Distinction.

This unique former merchant’s residence dates to 1879 and has been lovingly designed, restored, and furnished by owner Melanie Harrison, whose eye for detail and Belfast heritage is evident throughout the 16 rooms and suites.

Formerly known as Windsor Gardens, the nine townhouses of 37-51 Malone Road were occupied by wealthy Victorian businessmen. When later converted to apartments, a young couple, John and Roberta Hewitt, were amongst its tenants.

[Robinson and Cleaver department store, now home to The Ivy Restaurant]

John would go on to become one of the city’s best-known poets as well as Art Director of the neighbouring Ulster Museum. The Harrison even housed John Cleaver (of famed Robinson and Cleaver, a late 1870’s luxury department store), his wife Mary, and their eight children.

Purchased by Melanie in 2018, The Harrison was set to open right around the start of the pandemic, which postponed its opening until 2021.

Upon arrival into Belfast after a long day of international flights, I sense deep-rooted history in my room’s collection of antiques, objects d’art, and thoughtful touches. Harrison has infused each room with its own page from the city’s vibrant history – and its iconic cultural figures – to create an atmosphere that invites curiosity while offering a comfortable stay.

From C.S. Lewis to Van Morrison, each room and suite celebrates figures that have shaped Belfast, whether through literature, music, science, the arts — even chocolate!

A clever map in each room includes a brief history of each luminary as well as corresponding numbers on it to follow in each one’s footsteps around the city. The Harrison has just expanded with a new wing comprising an additional 11 suites, guest lounges, a conservatory room for breakfast, plus a piano bar.

Rooms

I’m booked into the charming, street-facing Sir Hans Sloane room, complete with a freestanding bathtub against a mural backdrop, a bathroom with rain shower, horse-accented bedside lamps, thick olive green curtains on brass rods, a chandelier, and a large antique wooden table, perfect for enjoying an in-room breakfast, getting some writing done, and watching the world go by along Malone Road.

Hans Sloane (1660-1753), physicist and British Museum benefactor, was perhaps best known for inventing the Cadbury chocolate recipe.

[The master of the house: Blue, Melanie’s French bulldog, napping in the lobby]

[In-room breakfast]

Breakfast can also be enjoyed in the new wing’s conservatory.

Behind Malone Road is Lisburn Road, filled with boutiques and restaurants.

In the Area

The city centre is a 15-minute walk away from the Harrison, including The Titanic Visitor Centre. Owner Harrison has a connection with the Titanic: Her grandfather was head carpenter during its construction in Belfast and was offered tickets for the maiden cruise. He had a fiancée at the time who warned that if he took the journey, she’d not be there for him upon his return. Luckily his heart won out and the two married and had a large, happy family.

[St. George’s Market on weekends, a must-do!]

Music fans can enjoy shows at The Odyssey, Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall or smaller spaces such as The Limelight and Empire Music Hall. There’s a variety of theatres with A-listers headlining productions in town, as well as smaller theatres where up-and-coming actors take the stage.

[Queen’s University]

For nature lovers, Lagan Meadows, a nature reserve complete with a forest, meadows, and a river towpath is ideal for both bird-watching and stretching your legs. There are a series of walking routes here, and runners can get a workout over to Shawsbridge.

[The Botanic Garden’s Palm House, a unique building styled with curvilinear cast iron glass]

Pubs and restaurants are aplenty here, and cater to most palates. For a lively night out, the Cathedral Quarter is a focal point for enjoying a pint of Guinness or a glass of Bushmills. Craft beers have also made their mark here.

The Harrison Chambers of Distinction is located at 45 Malone Road in Belfast, Ireland.

I was a guest of The Harrison Chambers of Distinction for the purpose of experiencing the hotel for this feature. Opinions, as always, are my own.