Ashford Castle

We stayed at Ashford Castle for six nights in March. It was truly a magical experience. I was celebrating my 60th birthday. From the moment we arrived at the door we were treated like royalty. Our car was unpacked for us and parked. We didn’t have to worry about that. On checking in we were offered refreshments and the man on the desk made us feel at home and very welcome. Our room was perfect. I had booked an accessible room as my husband walks with crutches. We visited the School of Falconry. I didn’t think we’d manage this but I mentioned it when we were checking in and asked could we see the birds with my husband sitting down. So one morning we got a call from reception saying they had set it up for us. They took us there and it was an unforgettable experience seeing a hawk flying and landing on our arms. They really went out of their way to make this a memorable experience for us. On another occasion we visited the Wolfhounds. I was in heaven here. They were just adorable and so gentle. We ate in the George V restaurant, Cullens at the Cottage, Wildes at the Lodge and The Dungeon. All restaurants were excellent both in service and food. The staff made us feel welcome and were friendly and helpful. The food was delicious and wonderfully presented. The one that stood out was the George V. This was fine dining at its very best. We opted for the À la Carte menu but there was also an option for a tasting menu. It was delicious food in a beautiful dining room. The weather wasn’t on our side during our stay but we were never bored. We went out when we could between the showers and walked around the grounds which are impeccably kept. Stunning views over Lake Corrib and beautiful walks in the gardens. It was so calm and relaxing. Of course one of our favourite films is The Quiet Man and there is so much history here associated with this film and in the local town of Cong. Mrs Tea’s is a beautiful gift and coffee shop on the grounds of Ashford Castle. Stocking all kinds of beautiful gift and Ashford Castle keepsakes. But the main thing for me was the chocolate counter with handmade chocolates. Absolutely delicious. I would highly recommend a visit to Ashford Castle. Driving in you are straight away mesmerised by the beauty of the place. This is a “Proper Castle!” And then from the moment you step out of your car you are treated like royalty by each and every single member of staff. They are one of a kind and this trip truly exceeded all our expectations. We most definitely will be back.

We toured around the country of Ireland as a family with two kids aged 11 and 8, this Ashford Castle was everyone’s favorite place we stayed. They treated our kids as guests and the whole experience was top notch. We wished we could stay longer and if our travels return to Ireland, we will return to Ashford Castle.

If you want an experience to remember Ashford Castle is the place to visit. I have been visiting and staying at Ashford for more than 20 years and I can honestly say it seems to get better each time. From the minute you enter the castle gates you know you are in for something very special. Each person you meet is friendly, courteous and professional. They make you feel you are returning home. We thoroughly enjoyed our Heritage Walk with Vincent, it was interesting and educational. Vincent was so proud of the castle and his home village, his enthusiasm shone through. I have to give mention to breakfast - what a superb choice and all beautifully served. It really sets you up for the day. Staff were so pleasant and helpful. Robert and staff in the George V restaurant make you feel like very special guests and the food was delicious and well presented. Our room was tastefully decorated with a lovely view of the lough. I really hope it won’t be long before I visit my favourite place in the world. It is really special!

This is an amazing place to stay. It is beautiful, historical, with lots of things to see and do. The service is excellent and everyone was so friendly and helpful. Our dinner and breakfast were fabulous! We will be back!

We have traveled to Ireland frequently but this was our first stay at Ashford. It most certainly will not be the last. We enjoy traveling and usually stay in 5 star resorts and Ashford surely tops the list of one of the finest we have had the pleasure to stay at. First the room we had was a mansion stateroom and was beautiful and comfortable with a gorgeous view of the lake. The highlight of the trip was the exceptional experience arranged by the concierge which was truly an authentic Irish Connemara experience. We were given a private ride through the Connemara mountains (lots of sheep) and access to local Irish craftsman and private lunch in a local home. Finally a private music experience in a local pub was really special. You cannot miss the walk with the majestic Irish wolfhounds who grace the estate. We had miraculous March weather and took advantage of the Lough Corrib cruise. Dinners in both George V and the Dungeon were fabulous. We literally enjoyed every minute there. We will definitely return!