The Best Hotels to Book in Waterford, Ireland

Envelop yourself in the extensive history of Waterford with a night at the Granville Hotel, an attractive 18th-century property and the birthplace of Irish flag creator Thomas Francis Meagher. It was lovingly restored to its former grandeur in the 1980s; all 100 rooms are well-appointed, with antique furnishings and fabrics creating a tasteful, old-world feel. The traditional theme continues to the AA Rosette-awarded Bianconi restaurant and Thomas Francis Meagher Bar, where you’re greeted by a roaring fire and a whiskey wall with more than 50 different tipples.

Now run by the third generation of the owning family, Dooley’s offers 112 modern and airy rooms. It sits on the historic Merchants Quay overlooking the River Suir, with an expansive restaurant serving fresh seafood and locally sourced meat. After dinner, hit the popular Dry Dock Bar, where you’ll find a pub atmosphere with traditional Irish music on Wednesdays and live bands at the weekends.

If you’re looking for a modern edge in Waterford city, the Fitzwilton should fit the bill. This contemporary, four-storey hotel has a penthouse suite featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and plenty of space to entertain. It’s hosted everyone from music stars to the Irish president – so you can tell it’s one of the best rooms in town. Another draw is the award-winning Chez K’s restaurant, renowned for its steaks and buzzy atmosphere.

When it comes to facilities, this hotel, in the picturesque harbour town of Dungarvan, scores top marks. Many of the 84 traditional rooms overlook the landscaped gardens and Colligan River beyond. The Park Hotel has a leisure centre, with a swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym; there are also conference and meeting spaces, private dining areas and two restaurant options. If you like steak, the grill menu at the wood-panelled Meladon Bar should satisfy.

Escape the chaos and switch off at this upscale riverside retreat. The Greenway Manor Hotel is right on the Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km (29mi) long off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan. The smart property houses 23 bedrooms; three superior suites are in the original part of the manor, which dates back to 1730. Like the rooms, the restaurant is in keeping with the manor’s history. Expect hearty crowd-pleasers such as chargrilled rib eye and wild-mushroom risotto. If you fancy a spin on two wheels, the hotel has partnered with a local bike-hire company.

You’re king or queen when you book a room at one of the finest castles in Ireland. This hotel and golf resort, set on an enchanting 125ha (310-acre) private island, is accessible by ferry over the King’s Channel. The rooms and suites evoke a grand, old-world feel. One of the stateliest chambers is the presidential suite, complete with crystal chandeliers and an intricately carved four-poster bed. The dining quarters are also fit for royalty, with the opulent wood-panelled Munster Room restaurant serving specials such as quail spatchcock and roasted duck breast, while the Fitzgerald Bar has an extensive wine menu and expertly made cocktails.

Skip to the fringes of Waterford and you’ll find the Viking Hotel, which combines simple yet stylish interior design and efficient service. Rooms are bright and airy, with light-wood furnishings and large windows. The Wooden Pestle restaurant is a real draw, with a dark-grey colour scheme creating a welcoming atmosphere. The artfully presented dishes are an Instagrammer’s dream, with pan-fried medallions of beef and grilled salmon on the menu.

Enjoy a stay to remember at Faithlegg, an impressive 18th-century mansion set amid woodland with fabulous views over the River Suir estuary. There are 14 sumptuous master bedrooms in the original house and 66 bedrooms in a new wing. All feature retro furnishings, plush fabrics and views of the leafy surrounds. You’ll also enjoy the Roseville Rooms restaurant, which has two AA Rosettes, the spa and the 18-hole golf course.

In the picturesque village of Ring (An Rinn) – home to an Irish-speaking community – Dun Ard B&B offers a classic Irish holiday. Bedrooms are simple yet cosy; the ground-floor option has a double jacuzzi bath and a private sauna. Breakfast is served in the dining room – opt for the traditional Irish, a hearty concoction that includes fried eggs, bacon, sausages and Clonakilty black and white pudding.

Cliff House Hotel is one of the best small luxury hotels in Ireland. It’s located in the charming fishing village of Ardmore, sitting on a cliff edge with undisturbed sea views from every room and suite. The hotel is also home to The House Restaurant; a Michelin-starred fine-dining experience serving an eight-course tasting menu of Irish dishes made with seasonal, locally sourced produce.