Lough Eske Castle

The staff were a real highlight, professional, helpful, and always going the extra mile. We stayed three nights and had a great time. Breakfast was a pleasure to linger over, and the Gallery Bar was a relaxing place to sit. The hotel has several tastefully decorated public rooms for relaxing, along with lovely artwork and an interesting collection of statues in the grounds. Our room was comfortable and well appointed, and the spa was well designed for relaxation. The facilities were comfortable and thoughtfully laid out. There are wonderful walks nearby and plenty of attractions a short drive away. We highly recommend it.

The grounds are beautiful, and it was quiet in January, without feeling packed. Everyone, from the doormen to the bar staff, seemed ready to help. The rooms are huge, and the spa is lovely. We tried the hot tub on a winter evening and really enjoyed it. Sitting by the fire in the Red Room with books and pints was a treat. It exceeded our expectations.

The food and the welcome were both lovely, and our room looked spacious and clean. But the canopy over the bed was covered in dust, and after one night I woke up struggling to breathe, with a sore throat, watery eyes and a blocked nose. I had to go to the pharmacy twice. The mattress also had some big, uncomfortable dips, though those were nothing compared with the dust. We spent time outside the room, and neither antihistamines nor the vapour showers eased the symptoms. We asked reception to move us. The second room was much better, but I was still affected by the dust and had a terrible night, counting down to checkout. A kind woman at the desk apologized, removed our lunch bill from the room and gave us a small box of chocolates. It’s a shame, because the food was gorgeous and everything else seemed worthy of a high rating. Lough eske seems to pride itself on comfort, but this was the most uncomfortable I’ve ever been in a five star hotel. I’d hoped for a relaxing stay and am still feeling the effects of that dusty canopy. It was an expensive disappointment, and I won’t return or recommend it.

The breakfast was phenomenal, with plenty of pastries and hot dishes, and we made the most of our one night. The staff were amazingly friendly and helpful, and our room was huge and beautiful. We enjoyed both the outdoor hot tubs and the indoor spa pool. The spa stays open until 9pm and the restaurant until 10pm. We hadn't booked dinner, but they fitted us in. It might not have worked on a busier day, so booking ahead is a good idea. We also took a lovely bike ride around the grounds. Bikes are available after 8am, weather permitting, and can only be used when it isn't raining. I could easily have stayed longer, though even one night felt well worth it.