Arrival/Check-In: Rain and wind greeted us as we arrived at Ashford Castle, a reminder that Ireland’s often-brisk weather is part of its charm. The drive in was blustery; wind whipped water off the lake and made the approach dramatic. Staff greeted us at the front door and directed us to back the car into a spot right at the castle entrance, where it remained for the duration of our stay. Porters brought our luggage inside out of the elements. At the reception desk we were welcomed warmly and our room was still being prepared, so we took the opportunity to enjoy lunch in the Prince of Wales Bar and sample my first pint of Guinness of the trip. The bar has a long history—the Prince of Wales, who later became George V, visited in 1905—and during our stay there was talk the current Prince of Wales might visit, which added a buzz throughout the castle. After a delightful lunch of smoked wild salmon and homemade brown bread, we were shown to our suite.
Guest Quarters: We stayed in the Kennedy Suite, located in the castle’s oldest section. The suite is tastefully furnished with period pieces that suit the historic setting. Entering through a heavy wooden door, we found an entry room with an armoire, mirror and vanity. The staff provided a robust power converter that handled multiple styling appliances with ease. A few steps up led to the main bedroom, featuring a 19th-century walnut queen-sized bed flanked by elegant bedside tables. Large, nearly floor-to-ceiling windows offered views over the lake and the manicured grounds. A seating area in front of the windows included a small settee and a chest used as a coffee table, while two tapestry-covered chairs and a Victorian rosewood table provided an additional sitting space. A desk on the far wall was ideal for working with a laptop and papers, and an 18th-century Spanish armoire completed the room’s classic character.
Services/Amenities: Ashford Castle offers a wide range of activities and amenities. Golfers can enjoy a nine-hole course with varied tee and green combinations that make for an 18-hole experience. The estate’s gardens and grounds are beautifully maintained. One standout activity is the “Hawk Walk,” where guests learn to handle a hawk, release it to the trees and watch it return—guides quickly teach the basics and the experience is memorable. Dining options are many, but the main dining room, George V, is a must for a special evening. Built by the Guinness family for a royal visit, the room’s service and style are impeccable; Waterford chandeliers and refined décor create an elegant ambience. For more casual dining, Cullen’s at the Cottage sits in a traditional thatched building across the bridge near the golf pro shop and first tee, offering approachable fare and a selection of local microbrews. Recent renovations also introduced new casual spaces, including the Dungeon—once a storage area, now a relaxed dining spot with a medieval feel that suits those seeking a less formal meal.
The Experience: Visiting Ashford Castle was a long-held dream for me since my first visit to Ireland at 23, and the stay lived up to expectations. The property underwent extensive renovations in recent years: wood paneling was carefully restored, roofs, guest rooms and windows were repaired, and central air-conditioning was added to meet modern guest expectations. The combined restoration efforts and thoughtful updates have preserved the castle’s historic charm while making it a comfortable, memorable destination.
GT CHECKLIST
Doorman/valet: yes
Check-in time under 10 minutes: yes
Separate tub and shower: yes
Large vanity: yes
High-quality towels: yes
Powerful, unattached hair dryer: yes
High-quality bed linens: yes
Large, flat-screen television: yes
Large desk with convenient outlets: yes
Large, complimentary laptop safe: yes
Complimentary in-room WiFi: yes
Complimentary bottled water: yes
Stocked minibar: yes
Ample lighting: yes
In-room coffeemaker: no
Iron and ironing board: yes
On-site restaurant: yes
24-hour room service: yes
24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center: yes
Turn-down service: yes
Ashford Castle
Cong, County Mayo, Ireland
tel 353 94 954 6003
ashfordcastle.com