Birr Castle

The reviews on this have been variable so it’s time to weigh in with my own. Bottom line - if you want a decent stay for a cost-effective price, DO consider this. If you’re looking for the Ritz, it’s probably wrong for you. This is normally student accommodation and so is way better than a hostel while not being a hotel. You get your own, modern, fairly smart room with an en suite shower room and toilet. There’s also a modern shared kitchen/TV area with oven and microwave and washing up facilities just down the corridor. The crockery, kettle etc seemed to have come from Ikea and some were still in their plastic, to give you an idea. The fridge/freezer looked new as far as cleanliness goes. Yes, the shower was a bit slow to drain (design flaw I think), but that’s as bad as it got. Bella on reception was ever-pleasant and helpful and I was able to leave my suitcase for a few hours on the last day. This place is on the edge of the centre, so not a bad location. There are one or two places to eat, plus takeaways and convenience stores in easy walking distance. I personally feel I nailed it with this as a choice for a cheap city break - it met my expectations and did the job very nicely. Recommendation for a good break? Leave your car at home and order yourself a visitor’s Leap Card to get around. Dublin hates cars and has pretty great bus, train and tram (Luas) systems. I didn’t know what I was doing and I didn’t go far wrong.