The Sweep in

25/02/2026: I had an overnight stay with my best friend in the most miserable February weather for decades. To say the quality of the stay was diametrically opposed to the filth of the weather is a practically criminal understatement. From the moment we got to reception to the minute we left we were minded like babies. We had lunch in the bar - a ham and cheese toastie of gourmet standard, with the most perfect chips I’ve ever tasted. Even the garnish (leafy greens with slivers of roasted peppers and home pickled red onions, all completely seasoned and properly dressed) was delicious. We washed it down with a chilled glass of Snare Point and a very welcome sense of decompression. The barman served us with humour and very professional attention. Our room was absolutely gorgeous. Floral maximalism in design, with dual aspect windows and a lovely en suite. In terms of cleanliness - it was flawless (I checked the skirting board for dust!). We had more wine, chats and watched the latest episode of RHOBH (no shade please). I had a long shower, with Voya (my favourite) products and drank more wine and put on my face in my plentiful fluffy bath sheet. Dinner was perfect. Bread (with butter and a lovely peppery EVOO) an amuse bouche of seafood bisque, ham hock terrine, roasted salmon with velvety mash and creamy leeks. I had no room for dessert. We went back to the room for face masks, wine, telly and gossip. I slept like an innocent on a heavenly bed with crisp sheets and pair of feather pillows. Breakfast was had in room (pure luxury compared to normal life) and it was hot, tasty and came with loads of coffee. After a nap, another epic shower and with a heavy heart we went to check out. Part of our package included coffee and scones, which we had forgotten. The lovely receptionist (Carmel, I think) reminded us and set us up in the bar. Homemade, warm scones with homemade jam and whipped cream and coffee were the most perfect way to end our stay. I expect quality when I book a hotel that features in Ireland’s Blue Book, but the Station House Hotel is more than quality. Details are everything for me and from the chocolates, water and Voya pillow spray in the room, the many umbrellas at reception, the water with ice and lemon at lunch that was brought to us without having to ask, to the fact that all of the food was perfectly seasoned, it’s clear that details matter to all at the Station House Hotel too. Probably because it is family owned and run by a woman who has (I suspect) even higher standards than I; and because the staff all genuinely care that you have a perfect time (delivered with tons of warm personality instead of that soulless, corporate deference you get in big 5 star hotels), this hotel is in a class of its own.

13/02/2026: Beautiful setting, lovely friendly staff, very relaxing excellent food