Marcus Hotel in Portrush named in Irish Independent's 'Fab Fifty' Top Places to Stay 2026
The Marcus Hotel in Portrush has been named in the Irish Independent’s ‘Fab Fifty’ list of top places to stay in 2026.
The Marcus Portrush Tapestry Collection by Hilton, to give the venue its full title, was highlighted for its USP (Unique Selling Point) which, the list said, was its “vibrant design in a Victorian building”.
The ‘Fab Fifty’ listing said: “The Marcus is Northern Ireland’s first Tapestry Collection by Hilton Hotel, with a prime perch on Portrush’s Main Street.
"Eighty rooms, an Asian fusion restaurant and a cocktail bar (try the Orra Margarita, a blend of poitin and mango named for the Antrim Glens drive) are the offer, but the USP is vibrant design in a Victorian building.
"Inspired by Marcus, a fictional explorer, it stretches from octopus logo to Tintin-style storybook and whimsical illustrations of whale sharks and thrashing ocrean waves – combining with historical photos and a cosy sense of scale, especially in the lobby and bar, to bring Portrush’s personalities to life.
"Garuda Design’s comic-book colour shows just how generic other hotels can be.
"It’s a tribute to the timeless spirit of Portrush,” the article said.
Some of the messages of congratulations on the hotel’s social media included: “Nicest and cleanest hotel I’ve ever stayed in. The staff are so lovely. And breakfast is amazing. Can’t wait to be back in the summer and at Halloween”, “Fantastic hotel but the staff definitely make it the best one” and “Fantastic place to stay, staff are amazing in all areas”.