The 5 Best Resorts in the U.K. and Ireland
Book a room at a British or Irish resort hotel and you're getting more than just a place to bunk down for the night. As often as not, you're investing in a fantasy of the good life, a unique window into history, a vision of hospitality and its potential. Chances are you'll also get to hang around with one or two birds of prey.
Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities.
Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
Ireland once again takes the mantle, claiming four of readers' favorites. One voter described No. 4 Adare Manor as "heaven," which makes sense given its setting on 840 acres of verdant countryside. (It's also home to the Oak Room, County Limerick's first Michelin-starred restaurant.) Another voter, who called Ballyfin (No. 2) "otherworldly," may have felt transported to another era between the estate's Regency mansion and extensive grounds, which include several types of gardens. But gracious hospitality wasn't overlooked by readers either — in fact, it's what made No. 5 Dromoland Castle stand out to a third voter, who appreciated how "we were treated like beloved family."
Scotland's honoree is the enduringly popular Gleneagles, set on the edge of the majestic Highlands. "It has a confident, undeniably strong sense of place," contributed one reader. "Scottish with a worldly point of view."
Still, it was Ashford Castle — a storied Irish estate — that earned the highest plaudits. Read on to find out more.
1. Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland
Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Red Carnation Hotel Collection
The 800-year-old castle — built by an Anglo-Norman family in 1228 — draws a prestigious clientele that has included British royalty and U.S. presidents. Several readers praised the stately grounds, calling the setting "absolutely lovely" and "magnificent." One particularly enthusiastic reader looked back fondly, saying, "Just writing this makes me remember the beautifully served and delicious tea service, complete with Irish scones, mini sandwiches, and sweets enjoyed by the bay windows overlooking gorgeously manicured lawns and fountains."
Score: 95.51
More information: ashfordcastle.com
2. Ballyfin, County Laois, Ireland
Courtesy of Ballyfin
Score: 95.50
More information: ballyfin.com
3. Gleneagles, Auchterarder, Scotland
Courtesy of Gleneagles
Score: 95.09
More information: gleneagles.com
4. Adare Manor, County Limerick, Ireland
Courtesy of Adare Manor
Score: 93.97
More information: adaremanor.com
5. Dromoland Castle, County Clare, Ireland
Courtesy of Dromoland Castle
Score: 93.70
More information: dromoland.ie
