Ashford Castle
County of Mayo, Ireland
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About the Hotel
A thirteenth century castle buried deep in a wooded parkland sounds like the setting for a fairy tale, but really it is home to the exclusive Ashford Castle. Standing impressively on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Mayo, Ireland, Ashford Castle is a monument to a fascinating and timeless history. Once the Guinness Family estate, the Castle has since opened its doors as an exclusive luxury hotel in 1939. Where else could one spend the morning learning how to fly a hawk at the School of Falconry, escape to the Walled Garden for a romantic picnic, and relax in the afternoon with a soothing massage at the spa? Filled with family heirlooms, rich furnishings and priceless objets dâ€(TM)art, Ashford presents the chance to enjoy the splendor of a bygone era in comfort and style.
Location
Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle Estate, Leaf Island,
County of Mayo, Ireland
F31 CA48
Nearest Airport: GWY
Features and Amenities
- Dining
- Private Dining
- Wine Cellar
- Bar
- Afternoon Tea
- Wine Bar
- Lounge
- Seasonal Restaurant
- Restaurants
- On-Site Amenities
- Heliport
- Fitness Center
- Garden
- Theater
- Movie Theater
- 3 9-Hole Golf Courses
- Chauffeur Service
- Equestrian Center
- Complimentary WiFi
- In-Room Amenities
- Turndown Service
- In-Room Safes
- Satellite Television
- Flat-Screen Televisions
- Work Desks
- Bathrobes & Slippers
- Complimentary WiFi
- Deep Soaking Tubs
- Activities
- Bicycling
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Sailing
- Tennis
- Wine Tasting
- Canoeing
- Clay Bird Shooting
- Billiards
- Archery
- Boating
- Zip-Lining
- Business
- Meeting Rooms
- Business Center
- Conference Facilities
- Business Services
- Catering Services
- Family
- Children's Programs
- Teen Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Interests
- Active & Adventure
- Chateaus & Castles
- Culture & Arts
- Golf
- Honeymoons & Romance
- Hotels
- Signature Perks
Reviews for Ashford Castle
A fun, atmospheric, luxurious place to roost
Ashford Castle is a special place. The castle itself is just the beginning. The surrounding gardens, the Irish wolfhounds, the shooting, the archery, the falconry, and the boat rides are all part of what makes it so extraordinary. There are a number of things to highlight. First, Ashford Castle is very US traveler friendly, with outlets for standard US electronics and no need to use converters. Second, the staff is amazing. It seems as if they anticipate your requests before you make them, lol. Third, the entire property is beautifully kept, with none of the slightly worn look that one often finds in large, old converted mansions, country houses, or castles. We stayed in a suite, 312, and it was very nice, with lots of storage, a beautiful (and very comfortable) bed, and the luxury of two full baths. Like many of the other reviews, I echo the need to book activities and meals in advance. We were fortunate that we had booked our falconry, clay shooting, and archery. We made the mistake of not booking the meals except for our dinner in The George V. However, the good news is that the Drawing Room, which has arguably the most spectacular views of the lake and the grounds, can generally be counted on to have a few open seats, and the food served in the Drawing Room is amazing. We are huge fans of falconry. The experience at Ashford was the best we have ever had, with a full hour of wandering through the forest with two amazing and super smart Harris Hawks. Our guide was a genius at capturing videos and photos, which we will cherish forever. Go. You will not regret it.
Karen W
The magical stay of a lifetime.
I don't know if I can say anything that has not been said of Ashford Castle. The service, food, drinks, grounds and every experience was, as my girlfriend consistently stated, "MAGICAL". This is a must experience at least once stay. We rode horses, did the hawk walk, and traditional boat tour. Breakfasts, lunches and dinners were phenomenal. The private whiskey tasting with Simon was a true learning experience.
Sean M - Virginia
5 Nights at Ashford Castle
Just back from 5 nights at Ashford Castle. We had Room #500, which apparently was the room John Wayne stayed in while filming 'The Quiet Man.' Beautiful room. One of the reasons for our visit was to try and find the town where my husband's late father emigrated from. Before our visit, Anne McGahon was extremely helpful and is a superb customer relations person. Second shout out to Ray Kenny, their chauffeur who picked us up at Knock Airport and another day spent 4 hours with us touring County Mayo. He found my husband's remote hometown which was so rewarding and made our trip. Wonderful guy, easy to be with. There are over 400 staff for the 166 guests and the staff was amazing. The grounds are spectacular and the walk into Cong is quick and easy. We had dinner twice in George V, twice at Cullens and once in The Dungeon. My favorite meal was in The Dungeon followed by Cullens. George V was very good, but it takes a long time. Morning coffee is served in the Drawing Room and breakfasts are excellent. We are so glad we went and highly recommend Ashford Castle.
Cilburke - rowayton
Three Nights as Royalty
This place is simply incredible. Absolutely the most luxurious stay I’ve had in all my travels. Everything here was just perfect; the food, drinks, experiences, and overall atmosphere of the castle were second to none. If you can afford it; stay here at least 3 nights and do the Falconry Hawk Walk.
Justin C
Exceptional experience
While traveling Ireland we had the pleasure of spending two days at AC. I wish I had planned more. The staff is charming and exceptional. The grounds and capital are exceptional. The interior decor is beautiful Multiple activities including falconry are available The town of Cong is a short walk away and is where the movie was filmed Highly highly recommended Slainte!
L6402KWseanm
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This is one of the finest properties we have ever visited. It is a beautiful castle, but it is also a world class hotel in the most beautiful setting you can imagine. The grounds are large and bikes are available for guests, the fishing on the river and the lake are first rate, and the service is unmatched. We have stayed twice and can't wait to go back again.
-D. & L. Butler
