Set against the ever-changing backdrop of Lough Neagh, The Boathouse is more than just a restaurant — it’s a relaxed, welcoming space where the beauty of Northern Ireland is matched by warm service, thoughtful cooking, and that unmistakable lakeside atmosphere. Whether you’re a visitor discovering Antrim for the first time or a local looking for somewhere to unwind, our location beside Lough Neagh offers something truly special: room to breathe, views to pause for, and food that fits the moment.
Life by the Lake
There’s a peaceful charm to Lough Neagh that’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it. As the largest lake in the UK and Ireland, it stretches across five counties and holds centuries of myth and local tradition — but it’s the calm, open skies and gentle lapping of water that make it so easy to love.
The Boathouse sits right on the lake’s edge, with uninterrupted views from inside and out. On sunny days, you can sit outside and watch the boats come and go. On cooler evenings, the glow from inside makes it the perfect place to settle in and watch the light shift over the water.
A Full Day Out in Antrim
The Boathouse is ideally located for those looking to make a day of it. Before or after your meal, there’s plenty to explore just a stone’s throw away:
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Antrim Castle Gardens – Just a short walk away, this beautifully restored heritage site is full of colour, calm, and quiet paths — ideal for a pre-lunch stroll.
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Antrim Lough Shore Park – With its walking trails, playgrounds and open space, it’s a brilliant spot for families or a casual wander along the water.
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Antrim Round Tower – A striking 10th-century landmark and one of the best-preserved in Ireland, this historic structure is well worth a visit.
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Mill Race Trail – A favourite among locals, this gentle riverside route offers greenery, fresh air and a moment of peace.
So whether you’re cycling, dog-walking, sightseeing or just escaping Belfast for a few hours, The Boathouse makes a natural stop along the way.
Something for Everyone
We’re proud of our menu, which reflects the variety of our guests and our region. While our lakeside setting means seafood is a natural highlight, The Boathouse is very much not just a fish restaurant. Our offering includes vibrant vegetarian options, tender cuts of meat, fresh pastas, gourmet burgers and more — all prepared using the best local produce Northern Ireland has to offer.
A Nod to the Water
Of course, being by Lough Neagh does inspire some of our best-loved seafood dishes. Our seafood isn’t just an afterthought — it’s carefully chosen, freshly prepared, and changes with the seasons.
Some highlights from our Summer 2025 evening menu include:
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Seafood Chowder
A warming bowl filled with crispy chorizo, smoked coley, salmon, haddock, and mussels — rich, creamy, and served with fresh bread. -
Mediterranean Seabass Schnitzel
A herb-crumbed seabass fillet paired with Greek salad, saffron-poached potatoes, aromatic butter, and tartar sauce. -
Traditional Fish and Chips
A local favourite featuring crispy battered fish, double-cooked chips, mushy peas, and house tartar sauce. -
Mussels (Galway Bay)
Sourced from the renowned Galway Bay, these mussels are cooked with shallot and fennel and finished with your choice of sauce, served with homemade bread. -
Seafood Tagliatelle
A rich marinara-based pasta with salmon, smoked cod, coley, mussels, prawns, fennel, and fresh herbs.
In addition to our set menu, we also offer a daily seafood special, created by our chefs to highlight whatever is freshest and most seasonal that day — whether it’s grilled whole fish, shellfish, or something with a creative twist.
A Relaxed Yet Memorable Experience
From the moment you step inside, we want you to feel welcome. Whether you’re joining us for a light lunch, a three-course dinner, or simply drinks by Lough Neagh, our team is here to make it memorable. We’re proud of our thoughtful service, laid-back atmosphere, and the fact that guests feel just as comfortable dropping in after a walk as they do booking for a special occasion.
And if you fancy a tipple, our wine list is designed to complement your meal — while our signature cocktails are perfect for a sunny afternoon or pre-dinner drink with friends.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
With its unique setting, diverse menu and connection to the landscape, The Boathouse is proud to be one of the standout Lough Neagh restaurant destinations in Northern Ireland. We’re easy to reach, surrounded by some of Antrim’s best-loved attractions, and here to make your visit one to remember.
So whether you’re just passing through or planning a special outing, we’d love to welcome you lakeside. Come for the food, stay for the view — and leave knowing you’ve found somewhere you’ll want to return to.
If you have any questions, you can reach out and contact us and remember you can follow us on all of our social media channels Facebook & Instagram.
Lough Neagh Restaurant with a View: Fresh Food on Northern Ireland’s Largest Lake | The Boathouse Antrim 2025
