We've just returned from The Lodge at Ashford Castle in County Mayo and I'm still thinking about it. The kids are still talking about it. My husband is still wondering if we can move there permanently. So yes, it was that kind of trip.
If you've been searching for a family break that actually feels like a break (as opposed to the usual parenting-in-a-different-eircode situation), this place needs to go straight to the top of your list.
A proper escape in the West of Ireland
The Lodge sits on the 350-acre Ashford Castle estate, overlooking Lough Corrib with views that made me stop mid-sentence more than once. The building itself dates back to 1865 and has that old-world charm you want from a country house hotel... but with none of the stuffiness. It felt warm from the moment we walked in. Welcoming, even with two overtired children trailing behind us.
Our Family Suite was gorgeous. Traditional sash windows, super king bed, deep-pile carpets that made the kids want to roll around on the floor (they did). There was actual space to breathe, which if you've ever tried to share a standard hotel room with small humans, you'll know is worth its weight in gold. And the homemade chocolates waiting for us on arrival? Gone within minutes. I got one. One.
Keeping the kids entertained (without screens)
Here's the thing that really won us over. The Lodge now provides outdoor lawn games for families and my two were absolutely in their element. We're talking Large Connect 4, Quoits, Boules and Cornhole all set up on the grounds. The kids spent hours outside playing while we sat nearby with coffee, actually talking to each other like adults. Revolutionary stuff.
There's also a whole world of estate activities if your lot are feeling adventurous. Falconry. Fishing on Lough Corrib. The kind of experiences that make memories rather than just filling time. My eldest is still telling everyone at school about the birds. Everyone.
And when the day's adventures caught up with us, Éalú (the estate's health and fitness centre) was there for some much-needed unwinding. The pool alone was worth lingering over. Peaceful doesn't begin to cover it.
Food that works for everyone
Eating out with kids can be stressful at the best of times. But the dining options here catered to all of us without anyone feeling like they were compromising. The Brasserie is relaxed and family-friendly, perfect for when you need something informal after a busy day. And if you can swing a grown-up dinner at Wilde's restaurant? Do it. Chef Jonathan Keane's menu focuses on locally sourced ingredients (they even grow their own vegetables and herbs in the estate's kitchen gardens) and every bite was worth savouring.
The deal worth knowing about
If you're tempted (and honestly, you should be), The Lodge is running a 'Suite Treat' offer that's pretty hard to ignore. You get 20% off the bed and breakfast rate for an overnight stay in a Family Suite, plus those homemade chocolates on arrival. Family Suite rates start from €404 per night before the discount, subject to availability. The discount applies to suites only and doesn't cover any extras, but the breakfast and the experience? Absolutely included.
We left feeling like we'd actually had a holiday. Not just survived a few days away, but properly recharged. The kids were happy. We were happy. And the drive home through Mayo was stunning enough to make the whole thing feel like a dream.
If your family needs this kind of escape (and let's be honest, most of us do), The Lodge at Ashford Castle delivers. Warmly, beautifully, and with enough lawn games to keep everyone out of your hair for a while.
