The 5 Best Resorts in the U.K. and Ireland

Guide a home at a British or Irish resort lodge and you might be getting far more than just a put to bunk down for the night. As generally as not, you happen to be investing in a fantasy of the superior existence, a distinctive window into historical past, a eyesight of hospitality and its opportunity. Chances are you may also get to dangle close to with one particular or two birds of prey.

Each yr for our World’s Best Awards study, T+L asks viewers to weigh in on travel encounters all around the world — to share their viewpoints on the top rated hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airways, and additional. Inns (together with safari lodges) ended up rated on their amenities, site, service, foodstuff, and general price. Homes ended up labeled as town hotel, vacation resort, or safari lodge centered on their destinations and facilities.

A guest room with a canopy bed at Ashford Castle — A guest area with a cover mattress at Ashford Castle

Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Purple Carnation Hotel Collection

Eire as soon as again usually takes the mantle, boasting four of readers’ favorites. A person voter described No. 4 Adare Manor as “heaven,” which would make feeling presented its placing on 840 acres of verdant countryside. (It’s also household to the Oak Home, County Limerick’s 1st Michelin-starred restaurant.) A further voter, who called Ballyfin (No. 2) “otherworldly,” may have felt transported to a different period between the estate’s Regency mansion and considerable grounds, which consist of many types of gardens. But gracious hospitality was not missed by audience possibly — in truth, it truly is what built No. 5 Dromoland Castle stand out to a 3rd voter, who appreciated how “we were handled like beloved relatives.”

Scotland’s honoree is the enduringly well-known Gleneagles, established on the edge of the majestic Highlands. “It has a confident, undeniably strong perception of put,” contributed one particular reader. “Scottish with a worldly stage of watch.”

Continue to, it was Ashford Castle — a storied Irish estate — that earned the optimum plaudits. Read through on to discover out additional.

Table of Contents

1. Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Eire

Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Red Carnation Resort Assortment

The 800-yr-old castle — built by an Anglo-Norman spouse and children in 1228 — draws a prestigious clientele that has included British royalty and U.S. presidents. Many readers praised the stately grounds, contacting the placing “totally wonderful” and “impressive.” Just one specially enthusiastic reader appeared back fondly, stating, “Just writing this will make me recall the beautifully served and tasty tea assistance, complete with Irish scones, mini sandwiches, and sweets appreciated by the bay home windows overlooking gorgeously manicured lawns and fountains.”

Score: 95.51

More facts: ashfordcastle.com