Waited outside in cold drizzle for 45 minutes for them to open the door because they forgot my reservation. I had to message them on Expedia because no one answered when I knocked. There was a kid kicking a football around for 30 of those 45 minutes, and when I went inside he was laying on a couch in the bar. So the kid couldn’t even say “hey ma, there’s an old lady knocking on the door?”
There seemed to be no other guests. At the bar there was no one to chat with. The staff was nice but aloof. I was hoping for warm Irish hospitality.
I was never at any time offered a menu, or asked if I wanted to see one. On the tour, I was shown where the restaurant was, but that was it.
NO AFTERNOON TEA. If there was one I wasn’t made aware of it. I was finally let in close to 4 pm and that’s when tea is, isn’t it? And there wasn’t tea in the room, though there was a kettle.
The rooms are very nice, mostly clean (I did see a cockroach). The bed and linens were perfect, and the shampoo/wash/conditioner smelled amazing.
The castle grounds are absolutely stunning. I think this would be an ideal location for a wedding, or a big group trip, but if you’re looking for fun banter or a lively atmosphere this isn’t for you. This hotel is rated highly by solo travelers, which is why I chose it - but it’s more for solo travelers that want to keep to themselves, I suppose.