Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
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Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Carton Demesne, Maynooth W23 TD98 Ireland
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Room & Suite (35)
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Avg. €246 /night, 10/6 - 10/7
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€245
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#1 of 2 hotels in MaynoothLocation
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Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Just 25 minutes from Dublin, this luxury resort on 1,100 private acres of sweeping parkland, ancient woodlands, lakes and the meandering River Rye create the perfect backdrop for an awe-inspiring country mansion. Once the ancestral home of the Earls of Kildare and the Dukes of Leinster, this walled estate is located just 25 minutes from Dublin. Steeped in the romance of times past, explore stories and history around every corner. A wealth of resort activities await you from cycle or walking trails to tennis, falconry and fishing. Carton House has 169 bedrooms, 18 of which are in The House, our 18th century Palladian style mansion. Indulge at 3 completely unique eateries - Kathleen's Kitchen, The Morrison Room or The Carriage House; escape to Carton House Spa & Wellness featuring an 18 metre swimming pool, Jacuzzi and gymnasium. Our 2 championship eighteen-hole golf courses were designed by Colin Montgomerie and Mark O’Meara. Play the classic parkland O’Meara or take on the more challenging links-style Montgomerie. Carton House is luxury resort escapism at its best. Explore it, experience it.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Pool
Free breakfast
Archery
Bicycle rental
Babysitting
Valet parking
Wifi
Fitness / spa changing rooms
Fitness classes
Personal trainer
Sauna
Hot bath
Indoor pool
Heated pool
Bar / lounge
Coffee shop
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Bicycles available
Boating
Golf course
Tennis court
Fishing
Walking tours
Kids pool
Taxi service
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Photo copier / fax In business centre
Spa
Body wrap
Facial treatments
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
Salon
Steam room
Baggage storage
Concierge
Newspaper
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Doorperson
First aid kit
Umbrella
24-hour front desk
Private check-in / check-out
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Blackout curtains
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Coffee / tea maker
Flatscreen TV
Walk-in shower
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Telephone
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Iron
Laptop safe
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Accor Hotels.
HOTEL STYLE
Quiet
Modern
Languages Spoken
English, French, Polish
Location
Carton Demesne, Maynooth W23 TD98 Ireland
Getting there
Dublin Airport
21.1 km•
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Car Hire
177 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
4.5
510 reviews
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Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, is often celebrated for its luxurious and elegant ambiance, with guests frequently commending the beautiful decor and the property's historic charm. While opinions on value are mixed, the hotel's service generally receives high marks for attentiveness and professionalism, despite occasional inconsistencies.
The cleanliness of the hotel is widely praised, although some guests have voiced concerns regarding the spa area. The hotel's amenities and prime location near Dublin are popular highlights, yet room experiences vary, with some finding them to be outdated.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Elegant
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Expensive
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Inconsistent
Amenities
Outstanding
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Detailed Reviews
+1
My wife and I stayed for 2 nights in June and had a great time. From the moment we checked in we felt very safe. For example, the pens, the credit card machine, and our room keys were all wiped in front of us before we used them. Everything in our room was very clean too.
Our room was amazing, with a great view of the rose garden and golf courses. There are some signed walking trails which were really nice too.
Our room was in the “old house” part of the hotel, which is like a stately home with ornate decoration and artwork. This would be worth visiting if it were an attraction in its own right, so to get to have a full Irish breakfast amidst it was special.
Service was excellent - there was always somebody helpful and friendly on hand throughout the hotel.
We had a really excellent stay and are already thinking about when we can return.
Our room was amazing, with a great view of the rose garden and golf courses. There are some signed walking trails which were really nice too.
Our room was in the “old house” part of the hotel, which is like a stately home with ornate decoration and artwork. This would be worth visiting if it were an attraction in its own right, so to get to have a full Irish breakfast amidst it was special.
Service was excellent - there was always somebody helpful and friendly on hand throughout the hotel.
We had a really excellent stay and are already thinking about when we can return.
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Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 3 Jul 2021
Dear rooneys7, Thank you for your excellent review further to your recent stay with us at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. We are thrilled that you and your wife had such a great time with us and that you got to experience so many of the wonderful things that Carton House has to offer. We are extremely pleased to hear that you felt very safe from the moment you arrived as we are continuously working very hard to ensure the safest of environments for our guests and our team members. We will look forward to welcoming you both back again very soon! Kind regards Sarah Doran Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at Carton House for 3 nights in July 2021. We have travelled quite a bit in the past and enjoy high end trips and food.
Our experience at Carton house was outstanding in every way. The Hotel itself, the service, the food and facilities are absolutely second to none.
I am sure it won't be long before they win serious awards.
Our room was one of the best we have stayed in and EVERY staff member we came in contact with was accomplished, professional, helpful and very warm and friendly. They really couldn't do more for you.
We enjoyed an outstanding tasting menu, a fabulous meal in Kathleen's Kitchen, wonderful breakfasts and a 1st class picnic in the grounds.
We booked a fishing trip which was fabulous fun, went cycling, hit some golf balls on the range, made chocolates and tasted cheese, wine and whiskey. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING. We will be going back just as soon as our diaries can make the time. Highly highly recommended.
p.s. we also had massages in the Spa which were fabulous.
Our experience at Carton house was outstanding in every way. The Hotel itself, the service, the food and facilities are absolutely second to none.
I am sure it won't be long before they win serious awards.
Our room was one of the best we have stayed in and EVERY staff member we came in contact with was accomplished, professional, helpful and very warm and friendly. They really couldn't do more for you.
We enjoyed an outstanding tasting menu, a fabulous meal in Kathleen's Kitchen, wonderful breakfasts and a 1st class picnic in the grounds.
We booked a fishing trip which was fabulous fun, went cycling, hit some golf balls on the range, made chocolates and tasted cheese, wine and whiskey. EVERYTHING WAS AMAZING. We will be going back just as soon as our diaries can make the time. Highly highly recommended.
p.s. we also had massages in the Spa which were fabulous.
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Date of stay: July 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip: We chose suite in the manor house section of the Hotel, it was absolutely superb.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 26 Jul 2021
Dear Jennifer, Thank you very much for your outstanding review further to your recent stay with us at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. We are absolutely delighted that your experience exceeded your expectations and it is fantastic to hear that you had the opportunity to enjoy so many of the wonderful facilities and activities available here at Carton House. Thank you, in particular, for your feedback regarding our staff, it is very motivating for the team to receive such wonderful reviews and we are delighted that they contributed so largely to your overall experience. We will very much look forward to welcoming you back to Carton House again in the future. Kind regards, Sarah Doran Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
The most incredible weekend in this spectacular hotel! From start to finish Harry (the manager) and his team could not have done more for us. They helped with the proposal to my girlfriend and went above and beyond.
We had dinner in the Morrison room (tasting menu) which felt like we were in a presidential palace, and the food was superb. Our bedroom (the Ashford room) was beyond words – my girlfriend even started crying when we arrived in the room.
As a wheelchair user, the accessibility was very good, with lift access to each floor and good floor surfaces throughout.
Just book this place – you will not be disappointed.
We had dinner in the Morrison room (tasting menu) which felt like we were in a presidential palace, and the food was superb. Our bedroom (the Ashford room) was beyond words – my girlfriend even started crying when we arrived in the room.
As a wheelchair user, the accessibility was very good, with lift access to each floor and good floor surfaces throughout.
Just book this place – you will not be disappointed.
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Date of stay: August 2021
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 13 Aug 2021
Dear Stephen1dublin, On behalf of the whole team here at Carton House I would like to offer our congratulations to you and your fiancée on your engagement. We are thrilled that you chose Carton House for your special occasion and delighted to receive your wonderful feedback. Harry, in particular, was very pleased to be able to look after you and assist with your booking and all your arrangements. We will very much look forward to welcoming you both back to Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel for many more memorable stays in the future. Kind regards, Sarah Doran Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Good
Second visit to Carton House and the golf side of things always delivers. Courses were in fantastic condition and you have everything that you could possibly need (lockers, buggies, range balls and help from clubhouse staff).
Food was superb in both the Carriage Rooms and in the main room for breakfast (although portion sizes could br better - see Bad)
Rooms had everything you could want, including a balcony area with superb views across the estate.
The Bad
The attitude of staff working the bar in the Carriage Rooms. They acted like they couldnt be bothered. Very slow service for drink, including waiting for 5/10 minutes at an empty bar while 3 staff members stood chatting to each other. I'm not sure if they're students working part time, but they couldnt even break a smile.
Food portions leave a lot to be desired. Ordered the fish and chips in the Carriage Rooms and was given 3 small bits of fish, 6 chunky chips and a small helping of peas. While it was very nice, its not terrible value for €23.
The Ugly
A group of 20 guys on a golf trip willing to spend considerable money in the bar and we were treated woefully. We've been to many other golf hotels including K Club, Slieve Russell, Lough Erne etc and they've always bent over backwards to accomodate your needs and improve your experience/stay. The same can not be said for Carton House. We were informed that all bars would be closed by 11.00pm with no guest bar facilities available. While we appreciate restricted opening hours on a Sunday, most other resorts find a way to accomodate you. The attitude of staff was 'tough' and they even went to the lengths of turning the tv off that we were watching the golf on to force us out. With nowhere else to have a drink, we went back to the rooms for a few beers, only to have hotel staff knocking on the door every 30 minutes to tell us to keep the noise down. If they had bar facilities which opened to 12.30am like most other resorts then they wouldnt have an issue of people drinking in rooms.
It is safe to say that the negative experience in the Carriage Rooms has overshadowed a fantastic golfing experience. We will definitely be considering other resorts before we even think of returning to Carton House.
Stuart
Second visit to Carton House and the golf side of things always delivers. Courses were in fantastic condition and you have everything that you could possibly need (lockers, buggies, range balls and help from clubhouse staff).
Food was superb in both the Carriage Rooms and in the main room for breakfast (although portion sizes could br better - see Bad)
Rooms had everything you could want, including a balcony area with superb views across the estate.
The Bad
The attitude of staff working the bar in the Carriage Rooms. They acted like they couldnt be bothered. Very slow service for drink, including waiting for 5/10 minutes at an empty bar while 3 staff members stood chatting to each other. I'm not sure if they're students working part time, but they couldnt even break a smile.
Food portions leave a lot to be desired. Ordered the fish and chips in the Carriage Rooms and was given 3 small bits of fish, 6 chunky chips and a small helping of peas. While it was very nice, its not terrible value for €23.
The Ugly
A group of 20 guys on a golf trip willing to spend considerable money in the bar and we were treated woefully. We've been to many other golf hotels including K Club, Slieve Russell, Lough Erne etc and they've always bent over backwards to accomodate your needs and improve your experience/stay. The same can not be said for Carton House. We were informed that all bars would be closed by 11.00pm with no guest bar facilities available. While we appreciate restricted opening hours on a Sunday, most other resorts find a way to accomodate you. The attitude of staff was 'tough' and they even went to the lengths of turning the tv off that we were watching the golf on to force us out. With nowhere else to have a drink, we went back to the rooms for a few beers, only to have hotel staff knocking on the door every 30 minutes to tell us to keep the noise down. If they had bar facilities which opened to 12.30am like most other resorts then they wouldnt have an issue of people drinking in rooms.
It is safe to say that the negative experience in the Carriage Rooms has overshadowed a fantastic golfing experience. We will definitely be considering other resorts before we even think of returning to Carton House.
Stuart
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Date of stay: August 2022Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Gavin Fogarty, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 13 Sept 2022
Dear 494stu, Thank you for your feedback further to your stay at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. We are extremely saddened and disappointed that this is your impression of the renewed Carton House as this is not the standard we set out. Since opening we have taken great pride in the service we provide and the vast majority of feedback we have received has been extremely positive. If you would like to discuss any element of your stay in more detail, I would ask that you reach out to me directly at Gavin.fogarty@fairmont.com. I sincerely hope that you will return to Carton House again in the future so that you may have a more positive experience. Kind regards, Gavin Fogarty Director of rooms
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
My wife and I decided that we needed to get away and we’d heard the promotion of Carton House on RTE, radio 1 and thought that if they were promoting themselves, let’s see what they are like.
They have just been renovated apparently we haven’t stayed before, so cannot compare. The guest rooms in my opinion were average and I’ve definitely stayed in better rooms, yet the price felt that we were being charged for a newly renovated room. These rooms cannot have been in the renovation program. The corridors are so dark, long and empty to get to the room that when you find your room, you are always happy to have made it.
The servicing of the guest room was prompt and the housekeeping staff’s attitude was much better than the reception, restaurant and bar staff.
We thought that there was little or nothing to do for a couple on a leisure break, yes, you can walk around, but with Covid lockdowns, we’ve all done a lot of walking.
Staff attitude was so poor, they were obviously under pressure, due to under staffing maybe, not sure, but they felt hassled and we felt guilty for asking questions and special requests.
Food was standard fayre and wine list predictable and overpriced.
Overall, we will not return or recommend. It’s another example of a hotel shouting about being renovated and “aren’t we great”, without the training, attitude and substance behind it to back it up.
We felt ripped off when we got our bill at the end of our stay, we decided to pay it and chalk it down as a lesson learned.
They have just been renovated apparently we haven’t stayed before, so cannot compare. The guest rooms in my opinion were average and I’ve definitely stayed in better rooms, yet the price felt that we were being charged for a newly renovated room. These rooms cannot have been in the renovation program. The corridors are so dark, long and empty to get to the room that when you find your room, you are always happy to have made it.
The servicing of the guest room was prompt and the housekeeping staff’s attitude was much better than the reception, restaurant and bar staff.
We thought that there was little or nothing to do for a couple on a leisure break, yes, you can walk around, but with Covid lockdowns, we’ve all done a lot of walking.
Staff attitude was so poor, they were obviously under pressure, due to under staffing maybe, not sure, but they felt hassled and we felt guilty for asking questions and special requests.
Food was standard fayre and wine list predictable and overpriced.
Overall, we will not return or recommend. It’s another example of a hotel shouting about being renovated and “aren’t we great”, without the training, attitude and substance behind it to back it up.
We felt ripped off when we got our bill at the end of our stay, we decided to pay it and chalk it down as a lesson learned.
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Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 25 Jun 2021
Dear Max_Power_x4, Thank you for staying at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. I am very disappointed to read your review of Carton House and I would consider your rating of 1 star to be extremely harsh considering your comments, however I will share this feedback with our team who will be naturally disheartened as all of us here have worked tirelessly to exceed all our guests expectations and this review is in stark contrast to all the positive feedback and all the other reviews we have received since re-opening following an extended period of closure and refurbishment. I appreciate your comments about your stay and your room and I can reassure you all our guest rooms and suites have been completely refurbished during our master renovation and restoration, which has taken over two years to complete. I am not sure when exactly you stayed and if you had an opportunity to enjoy any of the many activities we have on our wonderful 1100 acre estate, which include two championship golf courses, some of the best stretch of river for fly fishing found anywhere in Europe, our wonderful walking and hiking trails, resort bicycles, historical tours of the Manor House and grounds with over 300 years of history, access to equestrian trails, Golf Ireland academy, our Spa and Health club including our 18M indoor pool, outdoor tennis courts and so many more. From a Food and Beverage experience we have opened three new outlets including the Courtyard Bar lounge which includes a new outdoor courtyard, Kathleen’s Kitchen our new open kitchen concept set in the historic old kitchens of the Manor House, and the Morrison Room our fine dining restaurant set in the magnificent Morrison Room designed in the mid 18th Century by the famed Architect William Morrison who was responsible for the redesign of Carton House in 1739. On top of this the Carriage House Restaurant will reopen early next week for hotel guests and will be shortly followed by two other very unique new concepts our Whiskey Library and The Dukes Rest, which I am sorry you did not get an opportunity to experience. As all hospitality businesses reopen after nearly a year and a half of closure this is an incredibly difficult time for the hospitality industry in Ireland as our most important resource, our people, return to work after long periods of layoff due to closure and work extremely hard to provide the wonderful service they do in incredibly challenging times, but we appreciate all guests feedback and will endeavor to take your comments on board. Yours sincerely, Martin Mangan General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The hotel and the grounds are a fitting location and setting for a quality hotel. The reception and lobby lounge area are nice - the majority of the bedrooms are spacious and well equipped but they are a long walk from reception/the period rooms in the house where you can dine. The breakfast was good, with a good choice and served by lovely staff in a beautiful period room. The hotel was good with excellent service.
However dinner options were limited as we did not book far enough in advance and ate in the Carriage House, which was very disappointing. This is a sports bar with large screen TV's and perhaps suits golfers, we found it a soulless place for dinner in a 5 star hotel. However, given the short menu, you would at least expect the food to be great, alas, not so, the Burger, burnt on one side, was very ordinary. My wife had a mild(bland?) Butter Chicken that was initially served cold and was returned to the microwave and back within 5 minutes.
Perhaps worth mentioning, when my wife phoned reception to ask if she could have Breakfast in bed - she was told it would cost €32+€10 service per person, even when she explained our room rate already included breakfast. Still cant believe this could be correct?
However dinner options were limited as we did not book far enough in advance and ate in the Carriage House, which was very disappointing. This is a sports bar with large screen TV's and perhaps suits golfers, we found it a soulless place for dinner in a 5 star hotel. However, given the short menu, you would at least expect the food to be great, alas, not so, the Burger, burnt on one side, was very ordinary. My wife had a mild(bland?) Butter Chicken that was initially served cold and was returned to the microwave and back within 5 minutes.
Perhaps worth mentioning, when my wife phoned reception to ask if she could have Breakfast in bed - she was told it would cost €32+€10 service per person, even when she explained our room rate already included breakfast. Still cant believe this could be correct?
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Date of stay: August 2021
Rooms
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 20 Aug 2021
Dear BrightcutOne, Thank you for your feedback further to your recent stay with us at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. Whilst we are delighted that you enjoyed so many aspects of your stay and found our team members to be so attentive we are saddened to hear that you found your experience in The Carriage House to be disappointing and I would like to extend our apologies for this. I have shared your comments with our Chef and Restaurant Manager. All of our bedroom rates which include breakfast are for breakfast served in The Morrison Room. There is a supplement charge for In Room Dining Breakfast which is what was explained to your wife when she contacted reception. Should you wish to discuss any element of your stay in further detail please do not hesitate to contact me directly. I hope we will have the opportunity to welcome you back to Carton House again in the future. Kind regards, Sarah Doran Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent check-in and reservation staff (Aine in particular was superb).
Dining experience very poor. While staff were friendly they were slow to take orders and more often than not, forgot to bring requested items. It all started with coffee and scones on arrival..... no milk, scone hard and over heated, no butter/jam etc. Lunch & Dinner were much more of the same & very frustrating; mistaken orders, forgotten orders, no soup spoon, milk for tea (I could go on!). When we made a complaint the manager remarked on the number of new inexperienced staff and offered us the wine complimentary. While a nice gesture it did not make up for the disappointment that far.
The food was generally mediocre for lunch (soup over seasoned, thin sourdough bread without bitter or oil, and a charcuterie board which was tasteless (save for a huge dollop of mustard) and lovely toasted sourdough bread which was inedible and dinner but breakfast was really lovely. The tiered cake stand with a selection of cereals, fruit and pastries was a lovely touch and the breakfast room was stunning!
To top off the calamity of our 24hr stay, there was a power cut in the local area and two out of the three generators for the hotel did not function. Thus, our night in the room was in complete darkness AND there was no water in the bathroom (toilet included) until the following morning. Needless to say that taking off our makeup & brushing our teeth with the complimentary still water did not go down well given this was supposed to be a 4-star (and planning to be 5 star soon!) Hotel experience.
At check out we recieved a verbal apology and a courtesy 45e off the total bill. Again a nice gesture but what an utterly disappointing stay!
Dining experience very poor. While staff were friendly they were slow to take orders and more often than not, forgot to bring requested items. It all started with coffee and scones on arrival..... no milk, scone hard and over heated, no butter/jam etc. Lunch & Dinner were much more of the same & very frustrating; mistaken orders, forgotten orders, no soup spoon, milk for tea (I could go on!). When we made a complaint the manager remarked on the number of new inexperienced staff and offered us the wine complimentary. While a nice gesture it did not make up for the disappointment that far.
The food was generally mediocre for lunch (soup over seasoned, thin sourdough bread without bitter or oil, and a charcuterie board which was tasteless (save for a huge dollop of mustard) and lovely toasted sourdough bread which was inedible and dinner but breakfast was really lovely. The tiered cake stand with a selection of cereals, fruit and pastries was a lovely touch and the breakfast room was stunning!
To top off the calamity of our 24hr stay, there was a power cut in the local area and two out of the three generators for the hotel did not function. Thus, our night in the room was in complete darkness AND there was no water in the bathroom (toilet included) until the following morning. Needless to say that taking off our makeup & brushing our teeth with the complimentary still water did not go down well given this was supposed to be a 4-star (and planning to be 5 star soon!) Hotel experience.
At check out we recieved a verbal apology and a courtesy 45e off the total bill. Again a nice gesture but what an utterly disappointing stay!
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Date of stay: July 2021Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sarah Doran, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 13 Jul 2021
Dear Holytrinity3 Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback further to your recent stay with us. We are very disappointed to learn that although many aspects of your stay were very positive your overall expectations were not met. Thank you for your kind words regarding Aine which she was delighted to read. I have shared your feedback regarding your Food & Beverage experience with our Executive Chef. Whilst I can assure you that our scones are made freshly each day, we will ensure that retraining is carried out where required to avoid overheating. We take on board your comments regarding the soup, sourdough and charcuterie board. Unfortunately the power outage that was experienced in the local area was out of our control and our team did work to resolve the problem as quickly as possible to restore the power and water to the hotel. We completely understand the frustration this caused to our guests and can only apologise for the inconvenience. The monetary discount provided at check out was done so as a gesture. Thank you once again for your review, we greatly appreciate receiving all of our guests feedback and do hope that we will have the opportunity of welcoming you back to Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel again in the future. Kind regards Sarah Doran Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Stayed in Carton House on Saturday 27th for one night to celebrate our 15yr wedding anniversary. From the moment we entered the hotel we were welcomed by a very attentive and polite doorman that helped us with our bags and talked us through the check in process. Waited only for couple minutes when we were invited to check in. Fiona at reception was absolutely fantastic!
While we were going to the room porter was advising us on amenities and activities around the hotel, so we were well informed before event going to explore the grounds. When we entered the room there was a lovely surprise from hotel management, anniversary plate with a bottle of red wine and the note from General manager! Absolute delight!
Later in the evening we had absolutely amazing dinner at Kathleen’s kitchen with a sitting opposite chef’s kitchen. Staff was very professional and attentive. At the end of our dinner chef came out to check on how was us our meal.
Overall fantastic experience and we will be back again to stay longer!
While we were going to the room porter was advising us on amenities and activities around the hotel, so we were well informed before event going to explore the grounds. When we entered the room there was a lovely surprise from hotel management, anniversary plate with a bottle of red wine and the note from General manager! Absolute delight!
Later in the evening we had absolutely amazing dinner at Kathleen’s kitchen with a sitting opposite chef’s kitchen. Staff was very professional and attentive. At the end of our dinner chef came out to check on how was us our meal.
Overall fantastic experience and we will be back again to stay longer!
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Date of stay: November 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sasha O Reilly Crowe, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 29 Nov 2021
Dear Trip40872837210, Thank you very much for your excellent review further to your recent stay with us at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. We are delighted that we had the opportunity to be part of your 15 year wedding anniversary! Thank you for your feedback regarding your culinary experience in Kathleen’s Kitchen. We are particularly pleased that you found the team to be very professional and attentive – especially Fiona at reception. She will be thrilled to read your nice comments! We look forward to welcoming you back to Carton House in the future. Kind regards, Sasha O’Reilly Crowe Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I'm not used to staying in 5 star hotels but I was disappointed with this experience. There are basic issues around breakfast time in terms of seating, availability of coffee and tea, and the clearing of empty tables. This is something I haven't seen in other 3/4 star hotels, let alone 5. The pool is disappointing in terms of space and the steam room floor was dirty. Carpets need replacing in many parts, particularly on the way to the spa. The hotel is going for luxury, but the only 'extra' effort I noticed was a hot hand towel at reception, which really just felt off. You are offered a cardboard carton of water at reception and in your rooms, but then are charged 8 euro for water bottled at dinner time. So it is more expensive to provide bottled water in Ireland of all places, than a pint of imported beer. This really felt like extortion, in fact it is extortion, with no option of tap water suggested by the waiter. Which we certainly would have went for. All in all, it was a 3 star experience, in a 5 star location with 5 star prices. I wouldn't recommend to any of my friends or family to stay over there and we are local enough to the hotel. And hope this review is a warning to the management of the hotel and irish and oversees guests, that they may not get bang for their (many) bucks.
Just on the bottled water, it was specially bottled for carton house somewhere down the country and provided in a glass bottle. From experience in the sector these are the type of bottles that are sent back to the bottling company to be refilled, which is good for the environment. The water was not particularly tasty but if someone wants to pay for this, fair enough. The issue is that we were asked did we want water for the table, not did we want to pay almost 1 euro per 100mls.
Get rid of this policy of pushing this water to guests, it only serves for them to feel ripped off and begin to notice the other failures.
Just on the bottled water, it was specially bottled for carton house somewhere down the country and provided in a glass bottle. From experience in the sector these are the type of bottles that are sent back to the bottling company to be refilled, which is good for the environment. The water was not particularly tasty but if someone wants to pay for this, fair enough. The issue is that we were asked did we want water for the table, not did we want to pay almost 1 euro per 100mls.
Get rid of this policy of pushing this water to guests, it only serves for them to feel ripped off and begin to notice the other failures.
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Go to breakfast early or you may not get a table, coffee, juice or milk without a long wait
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My wife and I booked Carton House for a special birthday and we had a wonderful time. The standards in every respect are excellent: the food, covid safety, cleanliness, the grounds etc.
The staff deserve a very big mention. Every one of them made us feel very welcome and they were very attentive throughout.
We had two spa treatments which were both really enjoyable and we ate at the Carriage House and Kathleen's Kitchen. Souring local fine food is clearly a theme and is done very well. Breakfast was our favourite - served to the table in a beautiful room overlooking the gardens.
We hired bikes (free) and cycled around the ground and into nearby Maynooth. A lovely way to spend a few hours. We didn't even make it to the pool, it felt like too much effort when we were having such a nice easy going time. The jacuzzi and sauna were closed, so something to look forward to next time. The reception/bar/lobby is very spacious and has lots of books sitting around for your use with an Irish history theme - a nice touch.
Our room was superb. Very spacious and comfortable. I booked a balcony as an extra but to be honest we didn't get much use of it and it was very small anyway.
If I could suggest two tweaks it would be turn up the heat a little - we found the Carriage House and the bar area quite chilly. And when I booked our meals in advance I was sent an online form to complete asking questions like is it a special occasions / any dietary requirements etc, but the staff didn't seem to be aware when we arrived in the restaurants. No big deal in the scheme of things, but it's not cheap to go Carton House so i suppose you want everything to be perfect.
Anyway thanks to all the staff, I'll not name names. You were all fantastic and I'm sure management are proud of you.
The staff deserve a very big mention. Every one of them made us feel very welcome and they were very attentive throughout.
We had two spa treatments which were both really enjoyable and we ate at the Carriage House and Kathleen's Kitchen. Souring local fine food is clearly a theme and is done very well. Breakfast was our favourite - served to the table in a beautiful room overlooking the gardens.
We hired bikes (free) and cycled around the ground and into nearby Maynooth. A lovely way to spend a few hours. We didn't even make it to the pool, it felt like too much effort when we were having such a nice easy going time. The jacuzzi and sauna were closed, so something to look forward to next time. The reception/bar/lobby is very spacious and has lots of books sitting around for your use with an Irish history theme - a nice touch.
Our room was superb. Very spacious and comfortable. I booked a balcony as an extra but to be honest we didn't get much use of it and it was very small anyway.
If I could suggest two tweaks it would be turn up the heat a little - we found the Carriage House and the bar area quite chilly. And when I booked our meals in advance I was sent an online form to complete asking questions like is it a special occasions / any dietary requirements etc, but the staff didn't seem to be aware when we arrived in the restaurants. No big deal in the scheme of things, but it's not cheap to go Carton House so i suppose you want everything to be perfect.
Anyway thanks to all the staff, I'll not name names. You were all fantastic and I'm sure management are proud of you.
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Date of stay: October 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Sasha O Reilly Crowe, Guest Services / Front Office at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Responded 4 Nov 2021
Dear N5803HDFJ, We are absolutely delighted to receive your wonderful review further to your recent stay with us at Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel. We are particularly pleased that you enjoyed so many elements of your stay including our beautiful grounds. Thank you for taking the time to provide us with feedback and for mentioning how wonderful our team are – I will ensure they receive your lovely comments. Your feedback regarding the temperature in our outlets and the pre-arrival form has been noted. I assure you that this will be investigated with the team. We look forward to welcoming you back to Carton House in the near future. Kind regards, Sasha O’Reilly Crowe Executive Assistant to the General Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I wouldn’t advise this, given you will need to drive right across Ireland. Might be better to have an overnight stay somewhere in the West and visit the Cliffs from there. Having said that, with being from Canada, you’re likely used to long drives, so give it a go if you fancy the drive. All round the coast of Ireland (North & South) is beautiful.
The brand is Le Labo, (Rose 31)
They are part of the same complex
All rooms bedrooms are "non smoking". Beautiful grounds outside if you wish to have a wander and a leisurely smoke.
"Book into the eating facilities on site when you first arrive, as they are very popular !!"Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
€249 - €328 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
carton house hotel and golf club, carton hotel maynooth
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Carton House
LOCATION
IrelandProvince of LeinsterCounty KildareMaynooth
NUMBER OF ROOMS
169
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel
Which popular attractions are close to Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Nearby attractions include Castletown House (5.2 km), Clonfert Farm (7.8 km), and Maynooth Castle (2.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include an indoor pool, free wifi, and free breakfast.
Which room amenities are available at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Top room amenities include air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Yes, free parking and valet parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Conveniently located restaurants include Michelangelo Restaurant, The Village Inn, and Salmon Leap Inn Gastropub.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Yes, guests have access to an indoor pool, a fitness centre, and a sauna during their stay.
Are any cleaning services offered at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Does Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel offer any business services?
Yes, it conveniently offers meeting rooms, a banquet room, and conference facilities.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, and Polish.
Are there any historical sites close to Carton House, A Fairmont Managed Hotel?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Castletown House (5.2 km) and Maynooth Castle (2.1 km).