Hotel review: This is every rugby fan's dream location and great for families too

Just streets away from the Aviva, this family-run four-star delivers for both rugby fans and families

Step outside and you’re so close you can see the stadium ‘waves’ of the Aviva right outside

The Sandymount Hotel

Our rating: 8/10

Location

This is every rugby fan’s dream. Step outside and you’re so close you can see the stadium ‘waves’ of the Aviva right outside. We visit the weekend of Leinster’s defeat to Northampton.

The outside patio bar was readying itself for an influx of celebratory fans.

Instead, it was a muted gathering, coming together to drown their sorrows. Given its location, it’s a popular destination for rugby followers. But simple steps like opening the restaurant for residents only means the sport never consumes or overpowers the hotel.

9

Style and design

Victorian houses acquired over two generations comprise the modernised 4 star 175-bedroom hotel on Herbert Road. Rebranded from Mount Herbert Hotel to The Sandymount Hotel in 2011, it underwent an extensive renovation in 2022.

There are at least five public areas scattered across the ground floor, from an atmospheric library to lush spaces flooded with light.

Contrasting textures from neutral wooden panelling to velvet seating create a slick, modern vibe. The entranceway has a bronze statue of a pair of rugby players lifting another aloft, reflecting the proximity of the Aviva Stadium.

8

Service

The Sandymount has been managed by three generations of the Loughran clan since 1955. Celebrating its 70th year, the Sandymount prides itself on being the longest family-run hotel in Dublin.

This attention to detail shines through. Staff are attentive – check-in was seamless and service in the restaurant was particularly notable at breakfast. The maitre d’ even recalls our drinks order from the morning before.

The Sandymount feels like a home from home.

9

Guest rooms

The hotel’s 175 rooms are smartly decorated after a recent renovation – ours was a soothing palette of pale blues and beiges, with modern furnishings and beautiful bed throws. The rooms are spacious, with interconnecting options for families.

8

In-room perks

The note to say that fresh milk is available on request is a welcome touch, although the only coffee option in my rooms is instant, which is disappointing. Rituals products are stocked in the renovated bathrooms.

6

Menu

This is where the Sandymount excels. There are options for all occasions.

Think crusty pizzas and thick crispy chips for laid-back dining. Or garlic and chili prawns, or and teriyaki and wasabi seed salmon for experiential diners.

To the rear, there’s a beautiful garden terrace with seating which is a real sun trap. Breakfast is a full buffet with all you’d expect, from fruit, to cereals, bacon and eggs to pastries. Pancakes are the only notable omission.

8.5

Activities and amenities

There is a small fitness studio with a key available to guests on request.

It’s also set close to the DART rail for easy access to all of Dublin, and a short walk from Sandymount Strand. From the beach to the city, it’s all catered for.

The Aviva is a stone’s throw away. With the rugby on, we took in a tour of Croke Park instead. Just 20 minutes away, we saw inside the dressing rooms, and held replica cups aloft in the stadium.

7

The bill

To celebrate the hotel’s 70th anniversary, visitors can avail of a 20% discount from now until December. The City & Coast Explorer package includes two-night B&B stay for two, plus 15% off Dublin Bay Cruises; 20% off entry to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, and 15% off the new Windmill Lane Studio tours.

Room to improve? The Deluxe Super King rooms have Nespresso coffee machines but they would be a good addition to all bedrooms.

Access for guests with disabilities? Yes, The Sandymount Hotel offers great disability access with wheelchair accessible rooms, ramps and lifts and free allocated disabled parking bays near the entrance.

Family-friendly? The hotel has spacious family rooms and interconnecting rooms. The quiet residential area is appealing to families, with the DART. stadium and Sandymount Strand close by. Whitty’s Restaurant offers child-friendly dining options, and the hotel bar is welcoming to families during the day. There’s a landscaped garden space that’s great for kids to safely run around or enjoy some fresh air. There are often family packages and experiences.

EV chargers? Five free charging points for guests in the hotel’s on-site car park.

• Herbert Road, Dublin 4, D04 VN88
• sandymounthotel.ie

Two-night Summer City and Coast Packages from €379 for 2 people sharing.

The Hotel Examiner was a guest of The Sandymount Hotel