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Ashford Castle

Cong, F31 CA48 County Mayo, Ireland Access

Ashford Castle

Hotel will be temporarily closed until December 2 2020
Due to local government restriction Ashford Castle can only accommodate Guests living in County Galway in Ireland.

Key Selling Points- 13th Century Castle 30 minutes from Galway on the West Coast of Ireland- Set on the shores of Lough Corrib Irelands second largest lake- Once the country estate of Lord Ardilaun and the Guiness Family- Opened its doors as a luxury hotel in 1939- Offering a wide range of activities horse back riding falconry Orvis endorsed fishing school archery skeet shooting boat cruising golf- Health and Beauty spa facilities opening July 2015- 40 minutes from Galway City a medieval walking city steeped in history- New road network means a drive from Dublin of 2 hours 45 minutes- Voted one of the Most Romantic Hotels in Europe- Setting for the film The Quiet Man in 1951- Offers a 32 seater cinema and
billiards room

We are surrounded by 350 acres of beautiful manicured gardens verdant forests and woodland rich with birdlife all overlooking the shores of rippling Lough Corrib in County Mayo Ireland

Rooms

Hotel

  • General
    Air conditioning
  • Hotel service
    24-hour security
  • Security
  • Travelling with others
    Children welcome
  • Family plan
  • Pets welcome
  • Accessible
    Accessible facilities

Food and Drink

  • Outlets type
    Coffee shop
  • Lounges/Bars

House policy

  • Check-in Time: 15:00
  • Check-out Time: 12:00

Cancel policy
14 Days Prior to Arrival - No shows are charged for one night. Exceptions may apply see rate rules.

Travel with others

Children policy
Children under 12 years of age stay free with their parents in a Deluxe Room or higher Room category maximum of one child please contact the hotel directly for further information and before booking to confirm availability

Pets are allowed upon request
We do allow pets at the castle at the rate of EUR 75.00 per dog per night

Language spoken

  • English

Environment

Property's Green Action


  •  Local food

Certifications

Green Hospitality Certified Ireland

Members of Green Hospitality, Eco-label have set themselves the target to reduce their environmental footprint where possible: reduce carbon emissions by reducing energy consumption, preserve scarce water resources and minimise waste production.
Members are encouraged to protect and promote local biodiversity, buy locally where possible and encourage visitors to use local “green” businesses and services. Visitors are encouraged to adopt a responsible approach to the environment without reducing the quality or enjoyment of their visit.
Member’s employees are encouraged and trained to implement and practice good stewardship within the business and hotels publish annual plans and set targets to reduce the waste of scarce resources.

Most helpful reviews - Google and TiCATi reviews

Oisin Gannon
4 years ago – Google

10

Really lovely beautiful castle with an amazingly awesome walk

ananda lorenz
4 years ago – Google

9

The best hotel we’ve ever stayed at. From the history, the ambiance, the staff, the horse ride, the private wine tasting and spa. There was nothing left to be desired, we were treated like royalty.

Amberlee Montanio
4 years ago – Google

10

Wonderful experience!!!! Can't wait to come back!!! I'm not sure if he is still there and I can't remember his name but he created a sweet wine tasting for me and my husband. We visited 2 years ago week of March 11th.

Micalle Culver
4 years ago – Google

10

This was BY FAR one of our top experiences while touring all of Ireland!! EVERY.SINGLE.THING was beyond 1st class. The room was absolutely divine, the grounds are amazing, the food superb, the spa magnificent...... but beyond all of that, the hospitality and friendliness of the staff, theres none superior. They went above and beyond in every way.

Marsha Fewell
4 years ago – Google

9

I am not overstating when I say that this was our favorite stop in Ireland. We stayed here for a short time a few years ago and it was magical. Eleanor was nothing short of fantastic. The falconry experience is a definite must. We were greeted and treated as if we were royalty. We are hopeful to return one day.

Elaine T
6 years ago – Google

9

Amazing stay, excellent service. People were very helpful and extreme attention to customer satisfaction from before arrival to checkout. Totally impressed. Total value for the money. Sets the bar high hotel hospitality. I guess the only negative comment about the whole experience, and not that it's all that important or that we cared, just that, we were a party of 2 and another party of 1, we paid the same price for a room and the party of 1 had a bigger room than ours. Besides that we enjoyed the grounds, gardens, dining areas and afternoon tea.

Jonathan Holland
6 years ago – Google

9

This place is truly breathtaking. The architecture, landscape, decor, hospitality, dining and activities are all 5 star. I can't say enough about the customer service and how welcomed you feel when you are here. The staff knew our names within an hour of our arrival. The rooms were beautiful and the food was delicious and well presented. The horseback riding and hawk walk we're a couple of the activities we took advantage of. It really was an amazing stay. I will go back!

Jane Koehler
6 years ago – Google

9

From the stunning grounds as you drive up to the attentive staff that greeted us. An incredible experience that was welcoming and comfortable. So much to do and see and the food and beverages were delightful along with the great service. Nothing was missed in service or the senses. We will return. Thank you for the wonderful experience on our first time in lovely Ireland!

Alexander Grinton
6 years ago – Google

9

Incredible place where even the roadway in is gorgeous. No second here will be anything but pleasant. Very courteous staff. Classy without being pompous. So impressive.

Stephen Caffrey
6 years ago – Google

9

An excellent place in A wonderful setting. Located at Cong, Co. Mayo. Very friendly staff and excellent service also. We spent the afternoon here enjoying the Afternoon Tea which was superb. This is our 2nd time having it here within the last 3 years. The attention to detail is remarkable. The food is above 5 star and looks as good as it tastes. Well worth it as a treat. The gardens are presented well which was ideal for walking off the food. Well worth a visit!!

Steven Silber
6 years ago – Google

9

This is by far the most lavish hotel I have ever stayed in. It was like being in a fairytale. The castle is magnificent and the entire staff makes you feel like royalty. We had dinner and breakfast in the Henry V dining room. The food was outstanding and the service impeccable. My wife and I both had the same thought that we were waiting for the dishes to start singing, "Be Our Guest." What an amazing and unforgettable experience!

Mike Flannery
6 years ago – Google

5

Absolutely beautiful place, famous throughout the world, features in the timeless classic John Wayne movie, "The Quiet Man", and always was a lovely place to walk. Sadly, they have become much stricter and looking to cash in on the casual walker/tourist. For a family of 4 it would cost us €30 just to walk around the gardens, something we used to do for free. Thankfully, the village of Cong and the nearby Abbey ruins are still worth the visit.

Dennis OBrien
6 years ago – Google

5

We stayed at the Ashord Lodge. You cannot visit the Castle unless you have dinner. We made reservations for afternoon tea. It was very good. Food was plentiful and filling. It was a good treat. Rooms were fully booked so we could not stay here.

Brian McMorrough
6 years ago – Google

9

Spent two nights here with the intention of proposing to my then girlfriend. The room was impeccably clean and wonderfully decorated. The staff, friendly and attentive. Over the two days, we enjoyed many walks through the grounds and our first experience with falconry. The restaurant was also beautiful, and the food cooked and presented to an excellent standard. We enjoyed ourselves immensely and most importantly, we will be returning as husband and wife next year.

Connie Bossenmeyer
6 years ago – Google

9

My Lords and Ladies, I declare Ashford Castle is an incredible and amazingly beautiful place. From the very moment you arrive here you are given a royal, 5 star, triple A rated treatment! The castle itself is exquisite and full of authentic furnishings and antiques and interesting features. The service was impeccable and the room was divine. The bed was fit for a queen (or king if you willl) and so comfortable. The food was well thought out, beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. The grounds are beautiful, with extraordinary views and some very interesting and unique flora and fauna. Everywhere I went on the grounds made me daydream about what it must have been like to be there throughout its history. I wish we could have stayed there for a week. Not only would I highly recommend this Castle, I think you should put it very high up on your bucket list!!

Griffin Wiles
6 years ago – Google

9

I stayed at the lodge and the room was beautiful and the staff was extremely nice and considerate. The grounds were beautiful and it was a short walk to the castle and if you didn't want to walk they would drive you there and back. I dined at the dungeon and everything was amazing. I wish I had more time to walk the grounds. What I was able to see was stunning.

Peter Weston
6 years ago – Google

9

Fabulous, one of the best venues in Ireland. We stayed at the Ashford Lodge in the Castle grounds. Outstanding accommodation, food and beverage. The Castle and grounds are beautiful and well worth a visit. Don't miss tge Falconry school. Amazing birds.
Superb and breathtaking views. Just in love with the whole area. "The Quiet Man"
was filmed here starring John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara. References are to be seen everywhere. So much fun. Everything is within walking distance through beautiful grounds.

Annie Japaud
6 years ago – Google

9

I was here a few years ago on very hot summer day. We simply got lucky with the weather. The views were spectacular, the walks in the woods were amazing and we also had brunch at the cafe on the grounds and it was just perfect.
For anyone visiting the West, it is a must!

Patrick Kinzler
6 years ago – Google

10

We went for dinner in the George V dining room and it was a fantastic experience. It was fairly pricey (particularly the wine) but everything was very good. The staff were amazing. They were very friendly and funny and attentive and they truly elevated the experience. The building and decor were breathtaking and the mandatory formal dress code was quite refreshing. I highly recommend a meal in the George V dining room if you can swing it.

Bryan Maher
6 years ago – Google

10

Best hotel we've ever stayed at. Everything was top notch, can't think of a complaint. Had a great time at archery; walking around the grounds was also a treat. Every detail is carefully polished to perfection.

Scott Stienecker
6 years ago – Google

10

We are very well travelled, but have to say that this place was a “Wow!” The accommodations are extraordinarily well apportioned and our food experiences were also top notch. In comparison to more typical Irish fair, the food was considerably more continental and excellent. They made us feel like we were staying at our rich uncles house. We were family, not guest. I highly recommend the falconry tour, boat ride, and trap shooting. I can’t wait to visit again. Plan at least 3 days, and 5 would be better.

Seamus Corley
6 years ago – Google

10

Run to prefection, service is impeccable and the place in pristine condition. Food is 10out of 10. So incredibly tasty and filling with a great variation. Superb value for money money. Worth every penny.

Vicki Jordan
6 years ago – Google

9

Amazing place and so relaxing...i went for afternoon tea with a friend and to say it was fabulous was an understatement. It was luxurious. The service was 5 star. The afternoon tea was superb, of which we had on the magnificent Connacht room whist watching wedding photos on the grounds. We had a little stop in the shop on leaving the grounds where we both parted with a littlr treat, hard to choose from the high end items for sale. A definite feel good factor.

Sherri Appleton
6 years ago – Google

9

This hotel is like a fairy tale. My husband and I came here for our honeymoon and we couldn't have chosen a better place. The staff are all so nice and accommodating. The grounds are beautiful and the hotel is prepared for any weather offering you umbrellas, rain boots, and rain coats to use. There are a lot of activities you can do and even kids activities. I would highly recommend this wonderful hotel to anyone staying in Ireland.

Chris Parker
6 years ago – Google

10

As a traveler that’s stayed at well over 500+ accommodations, I can say with confidence that this is one of the finest properties anyone could have the pleasure of staying at.

Extraordinary attention to detail, impeccable grounds and estate, and a staff that goes above and beyond.

Is it expensive? Yes. Is it worth it? Yes.

Whether it’s a once in a lifetime trip or special occasion, Ashford Castle is one not to skip.

Liam Gillespie
6 years ago – Google

9

Excellent hotel excellent staff in a real castle. The highlight of my visit was tree zip lining and the surprise when I finished, was the executive manager (?) at the end with a warm Bailey's hot chocolate in the middle of the woods on my 64th birthday in February!!!
Great guide, had a great chat about mountaineering after the zip lining.
The second highlight was an hour's Falconry, great experience great guide.
One small disapointment was the George v restaurant food lukewarm, too much attention to showmanship not enough to the food.
Overall an unbelievable experience.
Thanks to my daughter and son in law.

Ira Lopez
6 years ago – Google

8

The place and the rooms are really amazing and the experience is absolutely great. The bad thing is the food: unfortunately the quality is really low and the price is absolutely high for no value at all. It is recommendable to have meals outside the castle if possible. I suggest everybody to ask the price before you go and have something otherwise you will be surprised about the bill

Jeffrey .Ish
6 years ago – Google

7

My wife and I spent the night at Ashford Castle last week while on vacation. I can honestly say that I have never spent the night in a place that was so historic or grand. Our room was a corner, lakeview room with a beautiful king size bed. Top notch service, fantastic staff, luxurious accommodations and overall a great stop on our vacation. We walked the grounds, explored the castle and took the lake boat tour, but didn't do any golf, falconry or horses because of the rain. We did not know about the dress code requirements for dining in the George V dining room, and I am too big to borrow a coat from them, so we missed out on dinner there. We dined in "The Dungeon" instead. The service and food were great, the decor a bit underwhelming. I hope to return, and spend more than one night, during a time of year where the weather allows us to truly enjoy the grounds and activities.

Heather Harrison
6 years ago – Google

10

We always celebrate Christmas in Ashford Castle as a family and we just wanted to say that we are always "WOWED" by the experience. The staff and management always go to such tremendous efforts to ensure our children have a magical time; even the older ones. For an absolutely perfect Christmas there really is nowhere else to be.

Jonathan Spence
6 years ago – Google

9

Our new favourite hotel. Beautiful rooms. Amazing grounds. The service is the best I’ve experienced. They have thought of everything. I can’t wait to go back. It’s expensive to stay at Ashford but for a special occasion it is worth every penny. €€€€

Naomi Rider
6 years ago – Google

9

Absolute dream! This place was magical. I would recommend this place to everyone I can who travels to this area. The outside is spectacular to look at and seems right out of a fairy tale. The inside is cozy and warm. The rooms were packed with modern technology and super comfortable. EVERYONE here was ridiculously kind and considerate and made our stay special. We were even interviewed by the BBC during our time here. 5 stars, 10/10, two thumbs up!

Alexandria Hayman
6 years ago – Google

9

This is the most magical place! From the majestic front gates and wolfhounds in the lobby, to the handshakes on the toilet seat so you don't have to touch it, this place has it! I could go on forever about it! I have high praise for Marine, who did our Hawk Walk, and Phelan (?), with whom we did archery. They were so much fun! It's a grand place, and you get utterly pampered!!

Tristen Smith
6 years ago – Google

9

I wish there was a way to exceed the star amount. The staff is inviting and more than generous. The land and castle are breathtaking and all the amenities are first class. This is and has been the perfect way to celebrate our honeymoon. Hats off to all who have made our stay a fairytale come true at Ashford Castle!

Billy Moss III
6 years ago – Google

10

Best lodging experience of my life. The attention to detail is the key to this big beautiful castle. If you want to feel like a king this is the place that can do it. This is hospitality on steroids. If money is a issue stay someplace else. I will be back.

Vanessa Penson
7 years ago – Google

10

We came for afternoon tea yesterday on a visit to Ireland and it was an experience to remember. The castle is opulent yet cozy. A dreary day was brightened by the lovely grounds and gorgeous views of Lough Corrib from our seats. The menu was delicious! Our party also enjoyed the large selection of various teas, as well as the champagne tasting. Your staff were absolutely excellent, friendly and attentive. I had an amazing first tea and I doubt I'll experience another like it (unless I return to Ashford).

Sarah Bardell
7 years ago – Google

10

WOW!!! This was our one splurge while in Ireland and it was simply exquisite. The service, the food (The Dungeon specifically) were truly amazing. The castle itself was gorgeous. We went for the morning walk with the Irish wolfhounds and that made for a very unique experience. If you get the chance... GO!!!

Steven List
7 years ago – Google

9

Had a wonderful experience, the service was absolutely amazing. The rooms are magnificent, and worth it. While I didn't have a lake view room, the view from my room was still picturesque. If in the area, you should check it out, if you can.

Kathy Carson
7 years ago – Google

9

Amazing...every detail of your stay will be perfection... from the moment you arrive at the entrance of the castle it starts.. room...food...service! The Castle is beautiful with the most stunning surroundings and views. The breakfast will be the nicest you will ever experience anywhere in fact I would guess this hotel must be the best hotel in the world and yet it's not stuffy or pretentious. My stay was a wonderful experience.

David Hassoun
7 years ago – Google

5

The grounds are amazing. The staff tries too hard to the point it is a little awkward since you can tell it's forced but they really do try and most of them are a charm. Had a few issues with the room like no hot water in the bathtub. Also had issues with the lord and lady picnic that was supposed to be gluten free but once we got dropped off with it we found out wasn't. We had one issue after another in the George V restaurant especially with dinner. The main course took about an hour to show up from the previous course after they first gave our meal to the wrong table then had to recook the meal a third time as they messed something up. The fresh Oysters from the first course came out a bit dried up and luke warm. Breakfast eggs made to order came out hard after sitting under a heat lamp for a while. The manager after asking how are stay was when checking out ended up crediting us back for the picnic which was nice. But for the very high price paid for everything in the end and the claims made by the castle being one of the best hotels in the world I was very disappointed with the multiple issues and lack of attention to detail.

Pam Williams
7 years ago – Google

9

My husband and I stayed at the castle for 5 nights in March 2017 and everything was perfect. I felt like a princess with the beautiful room and beyond perfect service. How every member of the staff could remember our names after only a day was amazing. The food was some of the best we have had in any of our travels. I am still telling people about the ham we had each morning for breakfast! Can not wait to go back.

Jennifer Reeves
7 years ago – Google

10

This place was AMAZING!! I can see why it was voted the world's best hotel. The customer service is stellar. The bed is to like you've died and gone to heaven. The food is excellent.

Evan McClain
7 years ago – Google

10

Walked around the castle for a while and explored the gardens. A very well manicured set of gardens and pathways. Even saw a few falcons when we walked past a falconry class. The quick bite to eat and some tea and coffee at Mrs. Tea's was nice as well.

Kerry Mahoney
7 years ago – Google

10

This was a magical experience staying in a castle. The service was incredible. It made you feel very welcome and exclusive. It made the guests feel comfortable that only residents were allowed inside the castle. The spa was also wonderful and very reasonably priced. We enjoyed excellent massages. We would have loved to have stayed longer with all of the activities they offer!

Sandra Conway
7 years ago – Google

7

We did not go inside the Castle/Hotel, only the grounds & gardens. In fact we hadn't even planned to go in, we stoped to take a pic at the gate with the guard, got to talking to him & decided to ck it out. It is simply gorgeous, one of the best garden landscapes we've seen. The road going back to the castle grounds is inspiring at every turn & then the Castle sitting there so grand with the lake behind & trees of all kinds, gardens & fountains everywhere, it's indescribable. Didn't have much time so we were running around trying to get as much in as fast as we could. Can't wait to go back & really take my time to see all the fine details. All the guards & staff we came across were friendly, we'll informed of the history & willing to answer/assist you in any way. I gave it a 4☆ because you can't go into the Castle unless you are staying there. Would love to have a tour of the Castle itself.

Thomas Clarke
7 years ago – Google

5

I stayed here once before it was taken over and done up and I loved it. It had a relaxed non stuffy atmosphere and was just a nice place to be. I went back early 2017 for afternoon tea with my wife and daughter and I have to say I wouldn't go back. Getting stopped and questioned who I was and why I was I here became annoying after the second time. And because we arrived a little early we got SENT outside to " enjoy the gardens " IN THE RAIN. Had enough of the gardens so decided to have a nice relaxing drink at the bar with my family. Walked in got questioned again who am I why am I here told to wait the got seated in a really awkward area where staff had to squeeze past. For the price the afternoon tea was nothing to write home about. The relaxing atmosphere is gone unless you arrive by helicopter and have a suite booked they don't want you. We only wanted afternoon tea and it felt like we bothered them. The castle is looking lovely and it's clear loads of money has been spent on the place but the relaxing pleasant atmosphere has gone and that's a shame.

winstonsmith 1984
7 years ago – Google

9

Absolutely THE finest hotel I've had the pleasure of staying in. If you lift a finger, the staff is right there to lift it for you. The food in the Dungeon was superb and the maitre d' and waitress were impeccable. We truly felt like royalty there. The grounds are fantastically kept and amazing to walk. Cong us such a quaint village too. We are definitely going back!