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Finnstown Country House Hotel

Approached by a long tree-lined driveway, this fine old manor house is set in 45 acres of woodland and (despite a large, blocky extension), is full of charm.

It may not be immediately obvious where the hotel reception is, but an open fire in the foyer sets a welcoming tone and all of the large, well-proportioned reception rooms - drawing room, restaurant, bar - are elegantly furnished in a traditional style well-suited to the house. Although quite grand, there is a comfortable lived-in feeling throughout.

Bedrooms vary and include some studio suites, with a small fridge and toaster in addition to the standard tea/coffee making facilities; although most rooms have good facilities including full bathrooms (with bath and shower), some are a little dated, and the view can be disappointing if you are looking over the extension - and light sleepers should ensure a quiet room is allocated if there is a wedding or other function taking place.

Residential golf breaks are a speciality.

Conference/banqueting (300). Leisure centre; swimming pool; tennis. Children welcome (Under 3s free in parents' room; cots available without charge, baby sitting arranged). No Pets. Parking (200). Wheelchair accessible.

*The hotel came into new ownership just before the guide went to press, so changes may be expected.

Rooms 77 (28 executive, 20 family, 10 no-smoking, 1 for disabled). B&B €100 pps, ss €45. Limited room service. Closed Christmas.

The Dining Room:

As in the rest of the house, the decor of this comfortable room, is pleasantly quirky - and, with good lighting and piano playing, the atmosphere is relaxing.

Rather small tables are nicely set up with fresh flowers, and menus are not over-ambitious, offering about five choices on each course; most are familiar but there are may be some surprises, and what arrives on the plate is far from the average hotel meal: quality ingredients are used and down to earth cooking has the emphasis on flavour - and food is attractively presented without ostentation, all making for an enjoyable meal that is also good value for money.

Dining Room : Seats 100 (private room, 30). L Sun-Fri, 12.30-3pm (Sun 12.30-6pm); D Mon-Sat 6-9.30; set L about €29.95. set D about €42. L&D also á la carte. House wine €21.50. House closed Christmas. *Long term accommodation also available in apartment suites. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Off main Dublin-Galway Road (N4): take exit for Newcastle off dual carriageway.