Ballyfin Demesne

A stunning experience from start to finish with exceptionally high standards throughout.

The premises and grounds, staff, service, food, rooms and amenities are all exceptional. Everything met the highest luxury standards you could expect.

Our second visit was exceptional with incredible attention to detail and 10/10 food.

The attention to detail was incredible in all departments, and the food deserves a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.

We've done three stays now and this last one was probably our best — the staff truly make you feel like this is your home.

I love that we can dress up for the fine dining experience or go casual in the Cellar Bar, and either way we're welcomed warmly. The staff constantly tell you 'this is your home' and they mean it — by day two they know exactly how you like your breakfast. We've only done one-night stays but next time we're booking at least two nights to try more of the activities. The decor, atmosphere, and genuine warmth here create lasting memories.

I watched the nine-year restoration process at various stages — love, care, and attention transformed this into a true gem.

The Demesne began with successive landed families including the O'Mores and Cootes, with the neo-classical mansion built in the 1820s by Sir Charles Coote to Morrison architects' designs. Fred and Kay Krehbiel's meticulous restoration returned the decaying mansion to original splendor, repairing ornate interiors, antique floors, and architectural details. A big thank you to the Krehbiel family for their passion in bringing this remarkable restoration to life.

I've stayed at some of the best hotels worldwide, and Ballyfin ranks at or near the very top.

The house restoration is absolutely spectacular — maintained to the highest standard with only 20 rooms creating an incredibly intimate experience. You truly feel like a guest in a private home rather than a hotel. We did falconry and whiskey tasting, both exceptional, but much of the pleasure came from simply enjoying the magnificent house and grounds. The falconry demonstration was a real highlight for animal lovers.

My wife says it's like being a princess in a fairytale — from the moment you arrive, stress melts away.

The staff greets you outside with genuine smiles, and you immediately know you're somewhere special. Colleen the duty manager was always available but never intrusive, handling everything we needed. The activities with Jerry — archery and clay shooting — were fantastic, and we loved exploring the expansive grounds with our golf cart. The manor itself is elegant, warm, and welcoming with every room being unique.

Our second stay was somehow even better than our first — the food is now next level across breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The attention to detail is outstanding and staff excellence spans all departments. You feel like you're in your own private mansion, yet staff are always available when needed. The hot port and hot chocolate at the top of the tower stairs was such a memorable touch — those little details really set this place apart. Even the chocolate and snacks in the room are exceptional quality.

As a former student here from '76-'81, this stay brought back memories but was completely different — the staff truly love their work.

From the greeting at the main steps to little treats in the car for our trip home, we felt special every moment. What really sets Ballyfin apart is finding staff who genuinely enjoy their work and go out of their way to ensure you savor every second. The tasting menu with wine pairings is absolutely amazing and needs to be experienced — it's impossible to describe how perfect it is.

This was our third visit and I never want to leave — everything is perfection from the minute you arrive.

The house is very grand but not stuffy, and everyone is wonderful and happy to help with whatever you need. The chef is incredibly imaginative and every dish is perfectly prepared — the food is next level perfection. We had a picnic at the picnic house which is absolutely a must-do experience. I usually just walk from room to room astonished by the restoration work, and the rooms themselves are incredible with beds you don't want to leave.

We had the most wonderful stay — the staff were fantastic, food exceptional, and the activities are absolutely worth doing.

The rooms were stunning and we loved the wine tasting, clay pigeon shooting, archery, and carriage ride. The falconry experience was a real highlight and essential for animal lovers. Every activity exceeded expectations and the staff made each one special. Ballyfin is truly a special place that we can't wait to return to — everything about it creates an unforgettable experience.

We've stayed five times at this exclusive property — it's like stepping back in time to a country house party.

It's magical — like living in a beautiful museum but with all the warmth of a private home. Worth every expense because an overnight here creates a memorable experience that exceeds all others. The exclusivity and atmosphere transport you completely to another era where you feel like part of an elegant house party.

We came for our first wedding anniversary dinner — it was world class with impeccable service where every need was catered to.

I highly recommend experiencing what this hotel offers because it's truly amazing. As a local in Laois, this place makes you incredibly proud of what we have on our doorstep. The meal was absolutely world class and the service exceeded every expectation. Everything about the experience was flawless from start to finish.

Having traveled extensively, we can confidently say this is one of the top three experiences we've ever had.

From arrival, it's clear this is no ordinary hotel — it's a historic masterpiece where every detail is meticulously handled. The service is impeccable with staff who are genuinely invested in delivering world-class experiences. Ballyfin's Michelin recognition is well deserved, with each meal being a carefully curated experience that perfectly complements the historic setting. You feel like more than just a guest — you feel truly welcomed.

My second stay was underwhelming compared to my exceptional 2017 visit — service was slow and Christmas decorations were missing.

The lobby felt lacking in atmosphere, especially without Christmas decorations during festive season. Service was noticeably slow with 10-15 minute waits which felt disappointing for Ballyfin's reputation. The hake main was beautifully prepared but quite small for à la carte, and breakfast's avocado toast arrived with hard avocado. Staff were friendly but clearly understaffed, creating delays that felt out of character for this caliber hotel.

This was amazing on so many levels — we could do everything on the grounds with golf carts at our leisure.

We went fishing, horseback riding, skeet shooting, and did falconry which I highly recommend. The horse and buggy tour showed us all the gardens with beautiful plants and flowers, and we had the most amazing picnic. Everyone at Ballyfin went above and beyond expectations, and when we ventured into Port Laoise, the local people were incredibly welcoming. The whiskey tasting and late-night snacks when we returned were perfect touches.

The Ballyfin is magnificent — we had a delightful 2-night stay with the most relaxing and fun experience.

The most delightful parts were the gardens, the overall property, and especially the staff. The carriage ride with Lionel was wonderful, and we had fascinating conversations with front desk staff about Ireland's hopefulness and improved economy. Piano Man Tom played during dinner each night — what an absolute star. I had a massage by Breda that was the nicest I've ever had, just perfection.