Review: Hayfield Manor Hotel

I felt as if I had stepped back in time when I entered the reception area of the Hayfield Manor Hotel in Cork.

There was a distinctive old-fashioned homely, yet luxurious, feel about the reception area, which was matched by a warm homely welcome by the staff.

We were particularly impressed by the concierge Michael who looked after our every need from the moment we arrived until the minute we left.

This hotel is without doubt on a par with the best we have ever stayed in including the Mandarin Oriental in London’s Knightsbridge

Our room was upgraded to a family room for three as we had a young baby with us. It was absolutely luxurious on every level from the fantastic extra large double bed to the comfy armchair. The massive marble bathroom, with Elemis designer toiletries, fluffy white towels and its beautiful wallpaper reminded me of the Beverly Hills Hotel in LA California and was equally as luxurious.

The room also featured a flat-screen TV/DVD player, free Wi-Fi (note some hotels do charge so as we were on business this was a decided plus) as well as air conditioning.

Our visit to the spa was a great success and I had a wonderful full body massage while my partner opted for a back only. We awarded both 9 out of 10. Hayfield Manor Hotel also features an indoor heated swimming pool, steam room, and an outdoor hot tub but, sadly, we never got the time to try them out.

Lunch time in the bar was a very relaxing experience and the waitresses could not have been more accommodating. I choose the crab on brown bread along with soup and it was delicious.

Before heading to bed we peeped into the drawing room and were immediately drawn to the warm and welcoming log burning fire and the large bookcase reminiscent of a scene from an old Agatha Christrie Who Dunnit myster TV drama!

The breakfast served the following morning was first class and we had a choice of full Irish breakfast served at our table or access to their extensive continental style buffet which offered a great variety of options.

The views from the breakfast room were wonderful and overlooked a beautiful garden. Silverware adorned our table and we felt very special indeed as we dined in splendour. With a sigh we had to leave and our only regret is that we could not spend more time there.

Our rating for this hotel is 5 stars and it deserves every one.

I look forward to my next visit to Hayfield Manor.