The Lodge at Ashford Castle

Hotel review

The Lodge at Ashford Castle may well be the little sister of swanky Ashford Castle (just a bit further down the drive), but it has plenty to shout about of its own. Yes, it may only be a four star, compared to its super luxe sister, yet it still packs a serious punch. Tucked away in its own little section of the estate, this charming hotel was once the estate manager’s house. It has been added to down the years and now provides smart accommodation in a lovely elevated position with stunning views over Lough Carrib (if you can, book one of the more expensive lake view rooms — they’re worth every penny).

What strikes you as soon as you walk in here is the warmth of the welcome and the superb service. Drive up to the front door, and your bags will be swiftly dispatched to your room, then your car parked somewhere more discreet! The other thing that strikes very quickly is the quality and quirkiness of the artwork that covers all of the walls (public areas and guest rooms alike). There are many notable artists’ names and recognisable pieces, from a Damien Hirst print to a Sir Peter Blake original in the reception.

Rooms are beautifully designed in true Red Carnation fashion, with tactile fabric walls and decadently thick curtains to keep the Irish weather at bay. The best have fireplaces, lake views and small private patios for drinks on balmy days. All are individually designed and provide a really comfortable night’s sleep with spoiling handmade soap toiletries, fluffy towels and luxurious bath robes.

Dining at The Lodge is a bit of a treat, too. Wilde's at the Lodge offers fabulous fine dining dishes (alongside more crowd-pleasing favourites for those who prefer things plainer), created with superb local ingredients including native oysters, scallops and fallow deer. Delicious doesn’t quite cover it, and the views from its first floor location are pretty spectacular. Breakfast too is served here; it’s an à la carte affair with freshly prepared dishes from the full Irish to local poached smoked haddock, porridge, granola and the usual suspects, all excellently executed.

For drinks, there’s the lively Quay Bar with its notable artworks, cool cocktails and great fun staff, with a terrace area for outdoor drinks and bar snacks in the summer months.

The final feather in the Lodge’s cap is its superb leisure centre, Éalú. It boasts a 15m heated indoor pool with a lap lane, children’s splash area and a whirlpool tub. You’ll also find a sauna and steam room, the ideal places to relax after a busy day exploring the estate or trying your hand at one of the numerous activities on offer (from guided walks and boat trips on the lough to exploring on one of the property’s bikes).

The Lodge at Ashford Castle is obviously a “go-to” for anyone who hasn’t got deep enough pockets to stay in the castle itself. But it has enough going for it not to have to play second fiddle to its big sis down the drive. It’s got charm galore, warmth and a great vibe from a crew of staff who really know what they’re doing and carry it out with panache and more! For a getaway to this unspoilt part of the country, it’s a no-brainer.

Sarah Empson