From the moment my car turns in through the pillared entrance of Ashford Castle Estate I’m whisked away to another time. The estate oozes polite luxury on a grand scale offering a chance to live like a Lord – for a couple of days at least. I’ve been enjoying the House of Guinness series on Netflix and look forward to learning more about the characters involved in Ashford Castle’s story.
I’m staying at The Lodge and what was once the estate manager’s house. As I check into my room, aptly named the Guinness Suite, I find stunning decor with black and white designed opulence covering the walls and bed. In the corner, a freestanding bath is nestled next to the mirrored walls. It’s enough to make me feel like a member of the Guinness family.
Shortly after arriving at the Quay Bar, I meet historian Fintan Gorman who has a portfolio of tales about the estate’s owners. He joins up factual details about Benjamin Guinness and how his children entertained the cognoscenti of Victorian society here. The arrival of George V firmly put the social status of the family and Ashford Caslte on the map. Earl Iveagh inherited the estate after the death of his brother Arthur and moved in to it for the duration of World War 1, pouring in more investment. It became a hotel in 1939 and was a haven for the wealthy during World War 2. Over the years the Castle has hosted many famous figures, from US President Ronald Reagan to Hollywood stars, Grace Kelly, Barbara Streisand, Bing Crosby, Brad Pitt and the list goes on. The Tollman Family of Red Carnation Group purchased the estate in 2013 and turned it into the two hotels and lavish estate that stand today.
Dinner is served in Cullens, a charming thatched Cottage, and what was once the old cinema for the people of Cong in County Mayo. It’s here that The Quiet Man was shown to the locals who played a big part in putting the 1953 movie on to the big screen. The aroma of burning turf and ambient nostalgia on the walls gives a taste of what is to come and with Grilled Lobster and Black Sole on the menu, I’m spoiled for choice.
Breakfast at Wildes, is served by an à la cart menu with vegetarians and pescatarians well catered for. I loved the home-made smoothie. The restaurant is named after the poet, Oscar Wilde, who attended a shooting party at the estate when he was 23 years old. I’m excited that I’ll be getting a chance to try my hand shooting after breakfast – but with clay targets of course. With expert help from guide David, I even managed to hit a few targets that added to my excitement. Archery follows, proving to be more of a challenge than handling a gun, but with the same amount of gusto I’m delighted that a few stay on the board. Activities are a big part of any stay at Ashford and include a large outdoor area that offers horse-riding.
For lunch, a special treat awaits at Squire Danagher’s House. This beautifully restored cottage is in fact, the actual building where the character of the same name lived in the movie, The Quiet Man. With considerable upgrades, a net curtain in the corner hides a Guinness tap, and we are all offered the chance to pull our own pint. 
What follows is a sumptuous lunch curated by head chef of Beef Wellington followed by a luscious Queen of Pudding. In the background local man Seamus, plays the accordion and entertains us with traditional favourites. This space is available for small groups up to 10, and with an area in the parlour perfect for dancing, it’s ideal for a private party.
The busy day continues at the Falconry School of Ireland, where I’m delighted to meet Hansel and Gretel, two beautiful American Hawks. This is my first Hawk Walk and I’m not prepared for the training that the birds are about to give me. Miguel, our guide, tells me what to do at all times but these clever aviators are expert at getting treats from guests. That treat may be the head of a chicken or tail of a mouse nonetheless but this is what drives the birds to escort us on our stroll through the woods. It’s humbling to be this close to nature and experience such beautiful creatures firsthand.
I have time for a dip in Ealu spa before dinner and enjoy the steam and sauna suites in peace. The facility is close to my room so I can walk there in my bathrobe. The investment from the current owners is evident everywhere as nothing is left to chance. The loyal staff, many who have been working on the estate for decades, do everything in their power to ensure that each and every guest has a wonderful stay.
It’s worth getting up a little bit early next day to meet the estates three Irish Wolfhounds. Guided by the entertaining Michael, who is passionate about his beautiful dogs, we skirt around the lake under a canopy of trees. Included in his pack are an affectionate red and white setter and Labrador that obediently walk with guests allowing themselves to be stroked and giving much pleasure to young and old alike.
Another activity on offer to guests at 11 o’clock each day is a boat trip on Lough Corrib. Captain Patrick of Corrib Cruises is a wealth of information having helmed for over twenty years showing guests the huge expanse of Ashford Estate by the water.
I’m reluctant for my stay to end but there’s always a round of golf on the panoramic course to squeeze in before I leave. Even a novice like myself enjoys getting around this scenic nine hole. I’ve become used to living like a Lord or even dare I say a Guinness Girl, on my two-night breakaway. The Lodge at Ashford is a taste of what it must have been like back in those heady days of intoxicating luxury where every whim is satisfied. I think I may have found my new favourite escape in Ireland and can’t wait to return.
Fact Box
- One night stay with dinner from €319.00 per Deluxe room
- Stay Longer Save More offer: enjoy a 30% discount when staying three nights or more from €228 per night per room
- www.thelodgeac.com
