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Hotel review: Is this the perfect town centre base for a Killarney getaway?

Superb staff, a quality breakfast and great pricing make this old school find a real steal

Sun, 12 Oct, 2025 - 13:53

Jillian Bolger

Foley’s Townhouse, Killarney

Our rating: 7.5/10

Location:

A five-minute stroll from Killarney train station, and with guest parking on site, Foley’s is simple to get to.

Best of all, the traditional hotel is part of the fabric of the town, standing handsomely on High St and welcoming guests for over 75 years.

With the town’s restaurants, pubs, and shops on its doorstep you’re also just a mile from Killarney National Park, and 20 minutes from Kerry Airport.

10/10

Style and design:

Family-owned and run by successive generations, there’s no mistaking the longevity and staying power of Foley’s which has been modernised and expanded over the years.

The smart stone exterior with colourful window boxes is well-maintained, and you’ll find care taken in the housekeeping and public areas.

Undeniably comfy and welcoming, the traditional decor won’t be winning any design awards, however the building is immaculately maintained and offers everything needed for a comfy and cosy stay.

7/10

Service

The service at Foley’s is memorable for all the right reasons.

An example of honest, local, and traditional hospitality, it’s the sort of friendly and sincere old-school Irish welcome we are proud to see overseas tourists encounter. (And that we love to experience ourselves.)

Warmth, helpfulness, and banter is on offer no matter who we deal with, from the ebullient receptionists to the night porter, bar, and breakfast staff.

There’s a relaxed and happy energy that runs throughout, making Foley’s feel extra special.

10/10

Guest rooms

Old fashioned and homely, the rooms give traditional hotel vibes.

All differing sizes and individually decorated, some of the 29 rooms have been modernised though many still have dark old style wood furniture, like dressing tables, freestanding wardrobes and coffee tables plus quilted throws, cornicing and dated window dressings.

Nevertheless, they are comfy with everything needed for a relaxing stay.

Some feature air con and others have newly refurbished bathrooms.

Ours had comfy beds and plenty of space, and while the spotless bathroom was old-fashioned, the shower had surprisingly good water pressure.

7/10

In-room perks

There’s little in the way of extras, beyond an expected station with kettle, Barry’s tea, coffee and biscuits in each room.

Guest rooms come with smart TVs and free wifi.

6/10

On the menu

Breakfast is excellent, and delivers serious choice at this price point.

A buffet of baked goods, with croissants, fresh scones and lovely apple cake, yogurts and fruit incudes a great selection of cheeses and charcuterie, granola pots and juices.

This quality offering is complemented by cooked to order dishes, including a good full Irish, fluffy omelettes, and generous pots of tea and coffee brewed to order.

We didn’t have dinner in the busy restaurant, so can’t comment on the menu which specialises in steak and seafood, featuring quality produce like Cromane oysters and Castletownbere scallops.

The dining room is atmospheric with old stone walls and linen table cloths.

Worth noting too is the claim that Foley’s wine list features more than 300 wines.

8/10

Activities and amenities

Foleys Townhouse offers all you’d expect from a traditional town hotel on a main street, with a characterful bar, popular restaurant, and secure parking.

Its USP is the brilliant location in the heart of Killarney, with access to everything the town and area offers.

It’s not a destination hotel, rather a great hotel in a great destination.

6/10

Checking in

The bill? B&B in a Deluxe double from €165.

Room to improve? Some of the rooms and bathrooms are dated. Further refurbishment would elevate the whole guest experience. We’d love to see more provenace on the menu too, especially where the meat is concerned.

Access for guests with disabilities? Restaurant and bar are accessible but there are no modified bedrooms..

Family-friendly? Nothing special but it is clear that staff would be great with younger guests.

Dogs welcome? Only service dogs.

EV chargers? No.