We’re just back from a really enjoyable one night stay at Waterford Castle. The castle was great, the food was excellent but the best part of our stay was the wonderful staff. From reception to the bar to the restaurant staff…all were so welcoming and they made our stay.

We liked it so much that we booked a return visit on the ferry as we left the island.

I would have rated it slightly higher but the the failings weren't what I would expect from this type of hotel.
My first observation was on checking in at reception for food, my Covid cert was scanned and my ID checked but my husband's was not. I found this a puzzle. How did they know if he was vaccinated....

I booked an afternoon tea as a birthday gift for my husband, he wanted to experience one so I thought let's do it in style.
When I booked, 2 weeks prior to the tea, I instructed that we didn't want fish and he doesn't eat cream on or on any cakes.
When we checked in this was confirmed to us. We were seated by a male staff member who took our drink order and then we were left sitting for quite a while before a lady appeared with our tier of food. We had not been given our water or tea we had asked for. For me the food was lovely but unfortunately there was gateau with cream on top and a raspberry choux pastry with a cream filling that he bit into.
We enjoyed the ambience and the setting.
On approaching the till to pay, another male member of staff asked if everything was to our satisfaction. I told him I was disappointed that my husband had been given cream. He then told me I should have made them aware ahead. I told him I did, then he replied 'oh I don't know whats happening, I have only just started my shift!
I would expect much better service and staff interaction from this type of premises.
The castle itself is spectacular and the grounds are beautiful but the hospitality needs a lot of work.