Approached by a long tree-lined driveway, this fine old manor house is set in 45 acres of woodland and (despite a large, blocky extension), is full of charm.
It may not be immediately obvious where the hotel reception is, but an open fire in the foyer sets a welcoming tone and all of the large, well-proportioned reception rooms - drawing room, restaurant, bar - are elegantly furnished in a traditional style well-suited to the house. Although quite grand, there is a comfortable lived-in feeling throughout.
This Dublin hotels bedrooms vary and include some studio suites, with a small fridge and toaster in addition to the standard tea/coffee making facilities; although most rooms have good facilities including full bathrooms (with bath and shower), some are a little dated, and the view can be disappointing if you are looking over the extension - and light sleepers should ensure a quiet room is allocated if there is a wedding or other function taking place. Residential golf breaks are a speciality.
Conference/banqueting (300/200). Leisure centre; swimming pool; tennis. Children welcome (Under 2s free in parents' room; cots available without charge, baby sitting arranged). Parking (350). Wheelchair accessible. Lift.
Rooms 82 (20 family, all no-smoking, 3 wheelchair friendly). B&B €65 pps. Limited room service. Closed Christmas.
The Peacock Restaurant:
As in the rest of the house, the decor of this comfortable room, is pleasantly quirky - and, with good lighting and piano playing, the atmosphere is relaxing.
Rather small tables are nicely set up with fresh flowers, and menus are not over-ambitious, offering about five choices on each course; most are familiar but there are may be some surprises, and what arrives on the plate is far from the average hotel meal: quality ingredients are used and down to earth cooking has the emphasis on flavour - and food is attractively presented without ostentation, all making for an enjoyable meal that is also good value for money.
