Flagstaff Lodge

My van started playing up on the way from Belfast to Dublin, so I ended up stopping here by accident. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The staff were incredibly helpful and understanding when I had to leave the van for collection a few days later. It’s a lovely, warm place just off the motorway, with super friendly people and fantastic food. I’ll definitely come back for another night. Thanks to the whole team.

I’ve stayed here many times, and the staff usually go above and beyond. Caroline, Damo, and Ryan were very helpful, pleasant, and good at their jobs this weekend. But Mary’s attitude and people skills were terrible, and she made my partner and me uncomfortable. We waited over an hour for our starter. We only asked how long it might be, and when we were told there was a problem with the pop up machine in the kitchen, we understood that things happen. But we overheard Mary telling a staff member that my partner had been very rude and that I was crying about it. That wasn’t true. Nobody checked in with us afterwards to ask if everything was okay or if we needed anything else. I also saw her click her fingers at young female staff to get them to come over, which was very rude and unprofessional. I don’t think I’ll stay again while Mary is on shift.

The food was amazing, with huge portions and plenty of gravy or pepper sauce. Ask for an extra sauce boat to take along. Desserts were excellent too, and big enough to share. For the Sunday Carvery, we arrived at peak time, around 1:30, and parking was hectic, though we did find a spot. There’s a queue at the hot bar to choose your food, and ours took about 30 minutes. It was a bit long, but worth it. You pay before finding a seat in the other bar lounge area. It was our first visit for the famous carvery, and we’ll be back, just after the rush.

The staff were warm, professional, and attentive the whole time, which made the stay feel relaxed and lovely. Our dinner at the Flagstaff Lodge was beautifully presented and cooked just right, and breakfast the next morning carried on the same high standard. The room was spacious, beautiful, and spotless. It’s just outside Newry, and I’d highly recommend staying there.