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My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks
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    Blessingbourne Estate, County Tyrone Blessingbourne Estate, County Tyrone

    Classification of accommodation in Ireland

    From cheap and cheerful to luxurious castle living, the island of Ireland has accommodation to suit everyone

    • #Accommodation
    • #BandBs
    • #Guesthouses
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    Types of accommodation

    Ever slept in a lighthouse? Or how about a medieval castle? Ireland's accommodation is extremely varied – but you'll find a cosy abode and a tasty meal wherever your adventures take you. But what should you expect from those stars next to the hotel name? We've got the lowdown on Ireland's accommodation rating scheme, so you know what's going on in terms of service, quality and features (naturally, a warm welcome is guaranteed!)

    You can find a number of different types of accommodation to suit every budget on the island of Ireland. From hotels, B&Bs, self-catering to camping and caravanning facilities. Hotels can range from charming family-run establishments to period homes and stately castles. All B&B homes provide convenient and comfortable accommodation in a personal and homely atmosphere. The homes are always relaxing and ideal for getting to know your host, without losing any sense of privacy.

    Historic properties are steeped in local legend and folklore. Staying in a castle, a tower or a cottage as if it were your own is utterly magical.

    Dorothy-Ellen White, Irish Landmark Trust
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    Bubble domes at Finn Lough, County Fermanagh

    Unique accommodation

    From barges to bubble domes, these are the most unique places to stay in Ireland...

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    B&B accommodation

    B&Bs in the Republic of Ireland are rated on a 2-5 scale, and all meet the Fáilte Ireland miminum standards. B&Bs in Northern Ireland are not rated under a star system but are inspected by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, and so are of a satisfactory level of comfort and service. You'll find there are 4 types of accommodation:

    1
    Town house
    The choice of town house B&Bs runs from detached, semi-detached to large period houses in a city, town or village. Many are in an ideal location for city visits and shopping, they are often close to train and bus services.
    2
    Country home
    Country homes are those in a rural setting. They offer a wide selection of premises such as Georgian residences, modern bungalows and traditional Irish homes. All with modern amenities, facilities and adequate garden and green surrounds
    3
    Farmhouse
    The Farmhouse B&B is a house on a working farm. It is a traditional or modern farmhouse all with modern amenities and facilities located in rural Ireland. Any home offering a holiday on a farm will allow safe access to the farm to enjoy the countryside setting in a safe environment.
    4
    Historic houses
    Historic houses are private houses of significant historical and architectural merit and character. They are based in towns and rural settings.

    Accommodation across the island of Ireland

    L-R: Ballyvolane, County Cork, Irish Fry, St Stephen's Green; Grand Central Hotel, Belfast; The Wilder Townhouse, Dublin

    Guesthouse classification Guesthouses on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-4 scale.

    1
    1 star
    Though simple, 1-star guesthouses meet all the mandatory requirements and perform their services to a good standard. Some of these guesthouses will have restaurant facilities.
    2
    2 stars
    Most guest bedrooms in 2-star guesthouses have a private bathroom. There will be a reading/TV loung area, and, in some cases, a restaurant.
    3
    3 stars
    These guesthouses comes with cosiness as standard. Guest rooms have a private bathroom and a direct telephone. You can expect a TV lounge area, and at least two major credit cards are accepted. Some guesthouses will have restaurant services, too.
    4
    4 stars
    These are the cream of the guesthouse crop. Guest accommodation includes half suites and every room will have a private bathroom with a bath and/or shower. Direct telephone, TV with remote control and room services are also available. Other services you can expect include dinner service, safety deposit boxes, newspapers and, in some cases, a babysitting service.
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    Merchant Hotel, Belfast, County Antrim

    Hotel classification

    Hotels on the island of Ireland are rated on a 1-5 star scale

    1
    1 star
    With 1-star hotels you can expect all the mandatory services and comforts to a good standard. Some guest rooms may have private bathrooms.
    2
    2 stars
    A 2-star hotel is likely to be family-run premises with charm and character. Guest rooms will have a telephone, private bathroom and dining facilities will also be available.
    3
    3 stars
    This ranges from small family-run hotels to larger city hotels. Every guest room will have a private bathroom. 3 star restaurants prepare food to high standards in relaxed atmosphere.
    4
    4 stars
    This includes contemporary hotels and period houses to the highest standards with all modern comforts. Accommodation is luxurious, with suites and half-suites available. These hotels also house restaurants that dish out excellent food and service.
    5
    5 stars
    Hotels of this standard range from stately castles, country club hotels and luxury city hotels. Accommodation in 5-star hotels is luxurious and spacious; suites are available. This is the very best of the best in comfort and service.

    Accommodation across the island of Ireland

    Mamore cottages, County Donegal; Maryville House, Belfast; The Wilder Townhouse, Dublin; Magherally Cottage, County Down

    Self-catering classification in the Republic of Ireland

    This is rated on a 1-4 scale.

    1
    1 star
    All 1-star self-catering properties will have adequate facilities and services, however, bear in mind that accommodation will be basic.
    2
    2 stars
    2-star self-catering properties will include extras, such as TV and linens. Though simple, these properties will have a good level of comfort.
    3
    3 stars
    3-star self-catering properties should be self-contained with the mandatory facilities including fresh linens and a TV.
    4
    4 stars
    4-star accommodation should include all the mandatory facilities and a washing machine and tumble dryer.
    Self-catering classification in Northern Ireland

    This is rated on a 1-5 scale.

    1
    1 star
    1-star self-catering properties will have adequate facilities and services, although, bear in mind that accommodation will be basic.
    2
    2 stars
    2-star self-catering properties will include extras such as TV and linens. Though simple, these properties will have a good level of comfort.
    3
    3 stars
    3-star self-catering properties should be self-contained with the mandatory facilities including fresh linens and colour TV.
    4
    4 stars
    4-star accommodation should include all the mandatory facilities and a washing machine and tumble dryer.
    5
    5 stars
    You can expect a really high standard of comfort and facilities, including TV, washing machine and tumble dryer, fresh linen, controlled heating and telephone.

    Ireland's accommodation highlights

    Attraction

    Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

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    Kerry

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    Attraction

    Game of Thrones® Tour – Glamping Mini Breaks at Winterfell Castle

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    Strangford

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    Accommodation

    Tyrella House

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    Tyrella

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    Accommodation

    Ballyfin Demesne

    5/5

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    Laois

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    Accommodation

    Blackrock Beach House

    5/5

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    Portrush

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    Accommodation

    Finn Lough - Lakeside Villas

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    Enniskillen

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    Attraction

    Riversdale Barge Holidays

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    Leitrim

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    Accommodation

    McGettigan's Townhouse

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    Dublin

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