Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel

We parked across the street in the garage and left the car there until it was time to go to Dublin. Everything was walkable, from attractions and dining to pubs on what seemed like every second storefront. It’s such a laid-back town. Our fourth-floor room had a beautiful balcony view of St Mary's Cathedral and plenty of space, with a couch, two casual chairs, a desk, and a table and chairs. The bathroom and room were spotless. The furniture showed some age, but it was comfortable enough. We ate at the restaurant on the first night, after a wedding and reception had just taken place. The wait staff and managers seemed worn out, and the food and service were just okay, nothing special. Still, I’d stay here again if I’m in town. This was near the end of our 12-day holiday in Southern Ireland.

Our supposed queen bed was actually two twin beds pushed together with a sheet between them. Both sides sloped outward, so sleeping comfortably was impossible. We also weren’t told at check-in that the room was accessible. The shower was right beside the toilet with no separation, and water spread across the bathroom. We had to use all our towels to dry it before we could use the rest of the bathroom.

The location is great and the lobby is nice, but I wasn’t impressed with the rooms. I was put in a wheelchair-accessible room where the hot water didn’t work, and the shower head was too short. When I raised the water problem in the morning, I was told the manager knew and it should be fixed by then. That wasn’t much help at checkout. I come here regularly for work and don’t think I’ll stay again.

Great location, and dinner was delicious. Mags in the breakfast room was especially kind and considerate toward elderly people. The staff were so friendly. The leisure centre is dated, but lovely, and the pool water was just the right temperature.