Ashford Castle, Cong

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!

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.

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.

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!

Look it hasn't got its 5 star rating for no reason but why does everyone feel that they have to speak at a level just above a whisper. No doubt this is one of the most beautiful properties in Ireland. Deserves its great reputation.