The Luxury Network International Magazine Issue 13

Around 90% of Ashford Castle’s guests are American,
with the rest from Ireland. So what are Brits and
other guests missing out on?
Status
Ireland’s West Coast is home to Ashford Castle, the
800-year-old former home to the Guinness Family
that’s now an incredible 5* hotel.
After undergoing a two year, $75mrefurbishmentit reopened
its doors in April 2015 and went on to be voted
‘Best Hotel in the World’ the following year.Yet despite
this incredible feat, Brits still choose to holiday closer
to home, even though Knock airport is only an hour
away from London.
The refurb has seen each of the castle’s 83 rooms and
suites (and hideaway cottage) develop its own style
and personality, showcasing original features with
modern luxuries.
Activities
The 350 acres of land has been a playground for successive
generations of the de Burgo, Bingham, Browne
and Guinness families for hundreds of.
Today it’s home to Ireland’s first School of Falconry,
which provides apretty specialopportunity to learn
more about these fascinating birds of preywhile exploring
the grounds.
Cycling, horse riding, clay shooting, zip lining, fishing
or kayaking are available, as is a nine-hole golf courseand
tennis courts.
An in-house spa helps soothe tired muscles and lets
you forget about the stresses of city life; it was voted
‘Overall Spa of the Year 2018’ by Irish Tatler.
Ashford Castle also has its own 32-seater cinema,
which plays classic films, including ‘The Quiet Man’
starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, which was
filmed
here in 1951!
Food & Drink
The George V Dining Room is a very classy restaurant
that serves high quality Irish dishes made with the finest
ingredients and produce. It was named in honour
of theroyal who visited in 1905, as was The Prince of
Wales Bar, which offers the perfect spot for a nightcap
post-meal.
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