A handsome property that is actually on the County Dublin side of the river that divides Leixlip, although the address is Kildare, this large house was once the home of Samuel Beckett’s mother and it is now an unusual hotel, offering contemporary style and a high level of service for business guests.
Imaginatively converted to its present use, luxurious accommodation includes four boardroom suites and six executive suites, all furnished to a high standard with a workstation and complimentary WiFi.
Public areas, including a bar and an attractive modern restaurant, have a far less business-like atmosphere. Cooldrinagh House overlooks the Eddie Hackett-designed Leixlip golf course, for which golf tee-off times may be booked in advance.
Conference/banqueting (350/250) Business centre/secretarial services. Golf. Wheelchair accessible. No pets. Rooms 10 (4 suites, 6 executive rooms) B&B from about €75. Open all year except Christmas.
Restaurant:
Atmosphere is the trump card in this stylish conservatory restaurant, with its stone walls, old wooden floors and soft lighting - and an exceptionally warm and genuine welcome. Pristine white tablecloths, gleaming silverware and glasses, and candlelit tables create a romantic atmosphere.
Arriving guests are shown to their table promptly, and menus quickly follow, along with a basket of home-made breads.
The à la carte - which is relatively expensive - is available every night (the signature dish is Beckett’s aromatic duck, with sultana, ginger & sage stuffing, and classic orange sauce), but it is worth getting here in time for the early dinner, which offers great value.
An impressive range of wines (seen across the back wall as you enter the restaurant) is another attractive feature - and all this, plus the warm and efficient service that is part of the charm at Beckett’s, ensures a strong local following, so booking is advisable.
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