Hotel review: Ashford Castle is the pinnacle of Irish hospitality and offers real life escapism

Exceptional staff, superb food and lavish surroundings place this fairytale Irish castle in a class of its own.

Everyone who comes through the gates is treated like a VIP at Ashford Castle

Location

On the shores of Lough Corrib, tucked into a 350-acre estate of woodlands, walks and wild scenery, Ashford Castle cuts an imposing dash on the water’s edge.

Vast, with fairytale turrets and crenellations hewn from dark stone, it’s a magnificent medieval and Victorian confection.

10/10

Style & decor

An 800-year-old castle with all the character, charm and luxury you’d hope for, it was purchased by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection in 2013 who invested €47m. The considered restoration sensitively enhanced the castle’s opulent interiors while adding all manner of modern comfort to this heritage hideaway

10/10

Service

The welcome at Ashford Castle is truly remarkable. Warm, sincere, and charming, everyone who comes through the gates is treated like a VIP. From the doorman greeting us upon arrival to the valet parking, the mulled wine and mince pies over check-in, the outstanding housekeeping staff to the wonderful waiters in the George V restaurant, Ashford’s entire team is exceptional. Striking the perfect balance between friendly and professional, this is the pinnacle of Irish hospitality.

10/10

Amenities

There’s a head-spinning choice of activities. Start your day with a woodland walk with the resident Irish wolfhounds (we also loved our kitchen garden walk with Alex, the fascinating gardener). Relax with a treatment in the exquisite spa or enjoy a workout, swim, sauna or steam in the brand new Éalú health and fitness centre set in the woods. An afternoon hawk walk with Ireland’s School of Falconry, flying and feeding a majestic Harris’s hawk is a thrill. A movie and treats (including fresh popcorn) in the plush cinema is a perfect end to the day.

10/10

Guest rooms

A junior stateroom

Room categories and suites vary in size with the castle originals blessed with high ceilings, large windows and unique architectural features. Our spacious state room in the oldest part of the castle is supremely comfortable with beautiful lake views and a comfy seating area with coffee table laden with glossy books and magazines. Ornate high ceilings and a plush four-poster bed are enhanced by a sparkling chandelier and roaring gas fire. An enchanting bathroom has a unique canopied bath with monogrammed towels, fluffy robes and luxurious toiletries. Housekeeping is immaculate.

10/10

In-room perks

Perks depend on your room category with mini bars packed with premium Irish spirits and tonics, wine from the owner’s vineyards, Irish snacks and treats. A decanter of sherry and the hotel group’s red velvet cake are luxe touches too.

10/10

On the menu

The Connaught Room

Every meal at Ashford Castle is an occasion from the breakfast sommelier’s fresh elixirs to the ceremony of afternoon tea in the regal Connacht Room and the glamour of dinner in the George V restaurant, where executive chef Liam Finnegan’s cooking is a stand-out. A pre-dinner private tasting in the wine cellar with head sommelier Paul Fogerty is extra special.

10/10

Value for money

Offering real life escapism, a stay at Ashford Castle delivers excellence across the board. Lead in rates from €580 B&B based on two people sharing.

• The Hotel Examiner was a guest of Ashford Castle.