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Waterford Castle Hotel: Traveler Reviews

4.0 of 5
The Island, Ballinakill, Waterford, Ireland
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Waterford Castle Hotel
Ranked #2 of 14 hotels in Waterford
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459 reviews from our community

Traveler rating
    297
    90
    39
    25
    8
See reviews for
Families
114
 
Couples
213
 
Solo
4
 
Business
8
 
Rating summary
  • Location
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Sleep Quality
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Rooms
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Service
    4.5 of 5 stars
  • Value
    4 of 5 stars
  • Cleanliness
    4.5 of 5 stars
Date Rating
MALVERNE
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
7 helpful votes 7 helpful votes
“Perfect weekend away”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 10, 2013

I went to visit a few friends who live in Dublin, and we decided to take a weekend trip down to Waterford Castle. Though we weren't able to stay in the castle (they are all allegedly double occupancy rooms) we decided to stay in one of the lodges that are about a 10 minute walk away from the castle. Our lodge was amazing. It was so clean, modern, spacious, and beautiful. Although it wasn't the same experience as staying in the castle (I want to go back and do this!), it was still perfect. I just wish we brought more food with us since there was a full and impressive kitchen that was just inviting me to cook an amazing meal. Instead we went to the castle for dinner, where I ate one of the most delicious meals that I've had in my life. Although I had a wonderful time with my friends, the castle seems like it would be the perfect place to take the love of your life for a romantic getaway.

Room Tip: Stay in a lodge with larger groups (they sleep up to 8) and bring food/entertainment with you!
See more room tips
  • Stayed January 2013, traveled with friends
    • 3 of 5 stars Value
    • 3 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 3
Ask smew117 about Waterford Castle Hotel
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Derek C, General Manager at Waterford Castle Hotel, responded to this review
February 12, 2013
Dear Reviewer
Thank you so much for sharing your views on a recent stay with us. We were delighted to read your review and indeed to learn of your pleasure with the lodge. I will be more than happy to pass your comments in relation to the food experience to our chef whom I am sure will be most proud.
We do hope you can experience the castle on your next visit.
Kind Regards
Derek
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Reviewer
5 reviews 5 reviews
4 hotel reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
9 helpful votes 9 helpful votes
“First Class - even with kids!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 8, 2013

We have just returned from a last minute one night stay in the family lodges at Waterford Castle, our new "summer home" (I wish) where the kids have told us we have to go every time we go away again.

This has a perfect mix of luxury and family friendly, beautifully equipped spacious lodges, really comfy beds, gorgeous cocktails, great food in the bar, and most importantly really really great friendly and professional staff and service. People make a place, and this is really understood and valued here - special thanks to Eugene and Amy who looked after us so well.

Its a 2 hour easy drive from Dublin with a fun 2 minute trip on the ferry. It sets the scene for a very special private experience. We were indoors most of the time as we were there in January but when we return during the summer we will make use of the driving range, archery, picnics, walks and tennis. Even with horrible weather the lodge was really cozy, and the candles and fires in the castle made a great atmosphere.

I would totally recommend this to any family, or those lucky enough to be able to go without kids :) its a really special place. I can't wait to go back.

All at the castle should be very proud of the job they are doing so well and the exemplary hospitality they show in beautiful surroundings. Its great to come back from somewhere and say not only that it was worth every penny but that it was excellent value. We got a lot more than we had expected and we will be back again soon with family and friends!

  • Stayed January 2013, traveled with family
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 5
Ask Missraisineyes about Waterford Castle Hotel
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Derek C, General Manager at Waterford Castle Hotel, responded to this review
February 12, 2013
Dear Reviewer
We greatly appreciate your feedback and the kids seal of approval puts a smile on our face. You have spoken so highly of the lodges which is most reassuring for us.It will be my pleasure to pass on the recognition you have given to the staff. To hear that you got a lot more than expected is most rewarding and indeed humbling.
We look forward to having you and your family return!
Thank you
Kind Regards
Derek
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
1 review
3 helpful votes 3 helpful votes
“Romantic stay”
4 of 5 stars Reviewed January 28, 2013 via mobile

Having proposed to my girlfriend thought this was a great way to spend the night. Fantastic castle, beautiful grounds and getting the short ferry across put the icing on the cake! Booked a room plus dinner which I thought was very good value. Food was lovely but there was a draft at table in the conservatory and were glad to leave to warm up. We were asked by the very attentive waitor (probably over attentive) on the way out were we cold but it was too late. Room was lovely the only thing was that it was two single beds pushed together which if 2 people are getting away for a romantic weekend takes away from and its not the most comfortable. Last minor thing I did email the hotel and ask if they could do something special in the room because we were getting engaged but never got a reply (perhaps people try that on all the time but did say I would pay for it). Anyway thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend a stay.

Stayed January 2013, traveled as a couple
Was this review helpful? Yes 3
Ask Damien B about Waterford Castle Hotel
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Derek C, General Manager at Waterford Castle Hotel, responded to this review
February 2, 2013
Dear Reviewer
Many thanks indeed for sharing your feedback with us.I was delighted to read all of the positives in your review but I must apologise for falling short in the areas you mentioned.I am glad to hear you enjoyed your overall stay and your recommendation is most kind. I am truly sorry that we did not get back to you in regards to your request. I do hope that you will return to Waterford Castle and that we can make it even more special for you on that occasion.
Kind Regards
Derek
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Reviewer
4 reviews 4 reviews
3 hotel reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
“A castle on its own island,what more could you want?”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 27, 2013

I brought my husband to Waterford Castle for a meal for his birthday and it was so special, a meal we will remember for a long time. The dining room was beautiful,high ceilings,beautiful decor,tasteful music,attentive staff and most important spectacular food.
I would recommend this hotel to anyone for a special occasion as we were made to feel like we were the only people in the whole castle and we will definitely return in the summer to explore the walks around the castle grounds.

  • Stayed January 2013
    • 5 of 5 stars Value
    • 5 of 5 stars Location
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 5 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 5 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes
Ask susiemc15 about Waterford Castle Hotel
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Derek C, General Manager at Waterford Castle Hotel, responded to this review
February 12, 2013
Dear Reviewer
Thank you for finding the time to give us such wonderful feedback. Your review was a delight for us to read and we greatly appreciate your compliments and recommendation.
We look forward to welcoming you back in the summer or if not sooner!
Kind Regards
Derek
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Ireland
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
7 hotel reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
16 helpful votes 16 helpful votes
“Anniversary Getaway in a Castle!”
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 23, 2013

Although we only stayed for one night in this hotel, it was a fabulous experience! The room we had was spacious and clean, and very quiet. It was our first time staying in a castle and you really knew you were in an old medieval building from the moment you walked into the lobby. The staff were very friendly and chatty. The food was excellant as well. The main hotel only has 19 rooms in total, so be sure to book well in advance. It would be an ideal location for a small wedding also as it would provide great intimacy for a group.

  • Stayed December 2012, traveled as a couple
    • 3 of 5 stars Value
    • 4 of 5 stars Location
    • 4 of 5 stars Sleep Quality
    • 5 of 5 stars Rooms
    • 4 of 5 stars Cleanliness
    • 4 of 5 stars Service
Was this review helpful? Yes 1
Ask aido_b about Waterford Castle Hotel
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Derek C, General Manager at Waterford Castle Hotel, responded to this review
January 25, 2013
Dear Reviewer
Thank you for sharing such lovely feedback. We were delighted to read such a complimentary review. We greatly appreciate your promotion of Waterford Castle.
It will be our pleasure to welcome you back in the near future.
Kind Regards
Derek
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
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Additional Information about Waterford Castle Hotel

Also Known As:
Waterford Castle
Address: The Island, Ballinakill, Waterford, Ireland
Phone Number:
Region: Ireland > Province of Munster > County Waterford > Waterford
Amenities:
Business Center Free Parking Restaurant Room Service Suites
Hotel Style:
#1 Romantic Hotels in Waterford
#2 Luxury Hotels in Waterford
#2 Family Hotels in Waterford
Price Range: $$$
Hotel Class:4 star (4*)
Official Description (provided by the hotel):
One of Ireland’s most acclaimed hotels, which has welcomed and charmed discerning travellers for decades, Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Resort is set in a privately owned 310 acre island, completely detached from the mainland. In a truly picturesque location on the River Suir, access to the island is by private car ferry, operating throughout the day ... more   less 
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Waterford Castle Hotel
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