Lucinda O'Sullivan's Ireland

About The Hotel

The former country home of the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is on 350 acres of the most fantastic grounds, walks, and lakes and is incredibly romantic and evocative. It was founded in the 13th century and through the centuries has had various additions, the most significant being a French Chateau section in 1715 and two Victorian extensions in 1852. The guest book reads like a roll call of the world’s most famous people – Princess Grace, Tony Blair, John Ford, John Wayne, Bob Hope, Rod Stewart, Ronald Reagan, Fred Astaire, George V of England…have all graced Ashford Castle…and Pierce Brosnan and his wife Keely chose it for their wedding reception a couple of years ago. However, you don’t have to have your name in lights or be mega rich to enjoy Ashford Castle for they also do wonderful special breaks at certain times of the year.There is so much to do within the estate – a 9 hole golf course, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, horseriding, health spa and beauty centre and the school of falconry is an incredible experience, not to be missed. Walks through the woods with these birds will bring you straight back to Lancelot and Guinevere. This too is “Quiet Man” country and “Squire Danagher’s” house is on the estate.

The magnificent oak panelled halls lead to a central drawingroom, the social hub of the castle. On our first evening there, we dined in the Connaught Room, considered the finest room, with its fairytale inglenook fireplace and glorious ceiling holding the most exquisite chandelier. If you want a special treat, an experience you will remember, this is it. The sublime degustation menu is prepared by Michelin starred chef, Stefan Matz, and you will be waited on with grace and style as you sit romantically facing out to the lake.

There are three other dining options at Ashford, the King George V room which is also fabulous with the most luxurious food – poached foie gras with melted figs and sauterne jellies, scallops and black pudding on creamed potatoes, and seared monkfish with Connemara lobster claw are but a few. They also have an extensive menu for kids. More casual food is served in the Drawing Room and in their latest addition “Cullens at the Cottage which does delicious bistro food very reasonably priced. The staff are fantastic and do everything possible to make your stay perfect.

Ashford is a special experience.

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