Passing through Ashford Castle’s grand stone gates unlocks the magic of an inimitable estate set in a stunningly unspoilt corner of the West of Ireland, just a stone’s throw from the Wild Atlantic Way. Standing sentinel on the shores Lough Corrib for over 800 years, the castle sits at the heart of 350 acres of such splendid proportions, that spending any amount of time in its grounds creates indelible memories. Once home to the Guinness family and today a magnificent multi-generational resort, Ashford Castle has been lovingly led by Niall Rochford for more than 20 years, who leads a long-serving team which passionately cares about every single guest. The estate encompasses 83 rooms and suites, a sumptuous spa and gym, an equestrian centre, a brand-new leisure complex, Ireland’s School of Falconry, a nine-hole golf course, an array of restaurants and bars, an extensive wine cellar and even a luxe cinema. Experience unforgettable fine dining, sip a cocktail in the same room that once hosted King George V, stay in a historic boathouse in splendid isolation, sleep in the suite where Oscar Wilde once stayed, fly a Harris Hawk, ride on horseback through the woodlands or try your hand at archery – anything and everything is possible at glorious Ashford Castle. Ireland’s only acredited Forbes 5-star Hotel and Spa 2020- 2025. Number 2 Resort in Uk and Ireland by Travel + Leisure 2024