The Best Cheap Hotels to Book in Killarney, Ireland

Featuring a traditional Irish bar full of lively locals and regular live music, the Failte Hotel certainly puts the cheerful into cheap and cheerful. It’s been run by the same family since the Sixties and is located close to everything in the throbbing heart of Killarney. The restaurant serves up local produce, including lobster and oysters from its own tank. After a good craic, premium pillows and quality mattresses await in your room for a sound night’s sleep.

While the Castlerosse estate has passed through various earls and viscounts, the hotel that stands there today is, thankfully, a little less exclusive. The setting, surrounded by fairways and parkland with views over the lake, however, is priceless. Accommodation ranges from rooms to self-catering cottages, perfect for holidaying families. A big leisure centre and spa add even more bang-for-your-buck.

Backed by large landscaped gardens and within a short stroll of the high street, the Brook Lodge Hotel balances peaceful greenery with a town-centre location. Start the day with a full Irish breakfast, or a lighter continental option, to set you up for a day of exploring – Killarney House and Gardens is just 10 minutes away on foot. Return for drinks in the garden before heading to your traditionally styled room.

Set right on the banks of the River Flesk, there’s little doubt the highlight here are the wonderful views over the water – complete with swans, ducks and the occasional passing kayaker. Watch from the cosy fire-warmed lounge, or head outside to the balcony on warmer days. The B&B was built by Mary Guerin in 1979, who still operates it to this day and is more than happy to share her encyclopedic knowledge of the area with go-getting guests.

Set on the Ring of Kerry – a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula – the Innisfallen Hotel is a particularly convenient stop for those road-tripping along the stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way in County Kerry. But, with fabulous views of the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range and the Lakes of Killarney, it provides a great base for exploring the area, too. Most of the rooms also feature those eye-pleasing vistas, while suites add simple self-catering facilities. All include the bonus of round-the-clock room service – perfect for late-night snacks or breakfast in bed.

If you’re looking for a great-value home-style stay, the Kingfisher Lodge is a family-run B&B with warm Irish welcomes guaranteed. A varied cooked-to-order breakfast can be enjoyed in the bright dining room or on the garden terrace on warmer days. What’s more, your host is a qualified tour guide, so can offer unrivalled insight into the area to help you make the most of your stay.

Despite its swish, country lodge-style character, the Heights Hotel Killarney can be surprisingly easy on the pocket. Its just-out-of-town location puts it within easy road access of both Killarney centre and a swathe of nature beyond; rooms are best described as smart-meets-snug. Together with hearty breakfasts and a brasserie serving international dishes, the hotel boasts one of the finest carvery experiences in Ireland, and the views to go with your food aren’t bad either.