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 good stay with some small missteps
We had a very nice stay at Ashford. The standout was the kindness of the staff - Anne, Eleanor, Viktoria, and many others were so lovely to talk to. The interiors are mostly beautiful (a bit Disney like in some places) and the grounds are a pleasure to walk through. We enjoyed the short walk into Cong, the hawk walk with Miguel, the history boat tour (unfortunately we were surrounded by people vaping which I don’t think should be allowed), and afternoon tea - except for one big oopsie. Someone mixed up the salt with the sugar so the scones tasted like the ocean. I expected some kind of small discount for this mishap but we only got nice apologies. Food overall was fine but underwhelming. We ate in the Dungeon (this looks like Medieval Times) and George V. At one point, I found a root on the micro greens with all the dirt and grime still attached. We stayed in a suite overlooking the loch which was a beautiful view, but the room could definitely use a refresh. The pillows were horribly thin and the mattress sloped to the middle. There were a few dead moths on the window shades. There was also no complimentary sparkling water or snacks in the room like many other 5 star hotels in Ireland (but there is sherry if you want it). There were some nice turndown treats though. I tend to be quite picky, so if none of these things would bother you, I think you’d probably love it.
LE267 - New York City, New York
Beautiful structure limited access.If you are not staying there
Beautiful property and gift shop. Unless you are staying at the hotel, are there to see? The falcon demonstration access is limited.So I was slightly disappointed once we got there. The guard was professionally not helpful. But the grounds are beautiful of what we were able to see
chaplains - Rome, Italy
Amazing place to stay
Stayed here for two nights recently as a present for my wife's birthday, was a wonderful trip. From the moment you arrive at the gates at check in until you leave you are made to feel special by the wonderful staff. Food is amazing with dinner in the George V restaurant, afternoon tea and breakfast all top class. Highly recommend the boat trip around the lake and the walk with the wolfhounds is a unique experience. Will hopefully get another opportunity to stay here in the future
si_man2983 - Tubbercurry, Ireland
A Bucket List stay that surpassed my high expectations!
WOW, simply WOW! If you find something to complain about here, there's no making you happy. Every detail impeccable! The service, the food, the atmosphere. Our room had a view that I could admire all day long. We made the most of our 4 days at the castle. We rode bikes, we went to the spa, we did a private fishing trip, we experienced the Hawk Walk (A MUST!), we ate at every restaurant (save for George V), we walked into the town, we travelled around the area . . . We met several families who return every year and I can see why. This is a great place for inter-generational family trips, couples honeymooning, families like ours seeking an Irish adventure. If you can go, GO.
BATJ - Toronto
Keeping memories alive and making new memories to last
Due to circumstances our original plan to visit Ashford Castle 10 years ago didn't happen, but wow, it was worth the wait when we visited this St Patricks Day weekend. From the moment we were picked up from Knock airport by Ray who greeted us with the welcoming nature of friendliness, warmth, respect and hospitality that the Irish are known for around the world, this continued throughout our whole visit to Ashford Castle, until we were dropped off again by Ray on our return journey. Ray made both transfers an absolute delight - thank you. On our arrival at Ashford Castle, we were in awe of the history and magnificence that the castle and the grounds displayed and we were spell bound by its granduer and beauty. It may have been opulent but it was so much more than that, it was homely. From the warming smiles at check-in on arrival, acknowledgement from reception staff, to the personal tour given by Holly, the welcome was as warm as the fire that burned in the hearth. We were not disappointed by our room, which was equipped with everything a person could want. It did not go un-noticed the little extras that "appeared " at the turn down service each night, as well as being left with delightful chocolate, the shower screen etc had been cleaned / wiped down and slippers left on their own mat alongside the bed. Little extras making all the difference. We had the most amazing evening meal at the Dungeon which was attentive and most welcoming. (unfortunately I did not get the name of the gentleman who looked after us - but thank him and the meal was delicious). The evening ended with drinks in the Prince of Wales bar and listening to Irish music being played. Nothing was too much trouble and it was a delight to chat with the bar man. St Patricks Day began with a complimentary walk through the woodlands with the Irish wolfhounds and their pack - wellington boots and Barbour coat supplied if required. Prior to going on the walk, some guests made use of the hot beverages and pastries available to keep them going until they could return and have a sit down to breakfast in the Prince of Wales Dining room should they desire. The breakfasts did not lack choice and were plentiful and delicious. The owner of the dogs was quite a character and both him and his charges made the walk both very enjoyable and unique (not to be missed). A cruise on Lough Corrib where Captain Patrick, supported by his wife, takes you on a fascinating journey, learning about the history and folklore of the lake, coupled with scenic landscape - (another not to be missed moment). In the summer they apparently run longer trips that visit nearby islands. The sight of Ashford Castle from the water is breathtaking. At Ashford Castle and Mrs Teas Boutique and Bakery, you are made to feel welcome by every member of staff you meet. A special thank you to Joanne (boutique in castle) who kindly offered to lend me some clip on earrings when I enquired about buying some) - now that is service !!! I did however decline because of our short visit. Our trip to Ashford Castle was absolutely amazing and we would love to return again - It lived up to our expectations and beyond and served its purpose of "Keeping memories alive and making new memories to last." There was one gesture which made the whole experience truly touching and showed humanity and kindness beyond bounds, which will stay with me for a long time. On returning to the room on the first night of our visit, quite unexpectedly we saw a note from Lorcan and the Front of House Team which was relevant to our visit. Alongside this note was a complimentary night cap - the words in the note were heartfelt and meaningful. This gesture alone was a kind and thoughtful touch and showed humanity and the mark of an establishment that truly cares. Thank you all. PS: It might be nice to sell a wider range of jewellery that caters for men in the boutiques - tie pins etc.
L K - London, England, United Kingdom
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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
