Set in two acres of gardens near University College Cork, the city's premier hotel provides every comfort and a remarkable level of privacy and seclusion, just a mile from the city centre.

Although relatively new, it has the feel of a large period house, and is managed with warmth and discreet efficiency. Public areas include a choice of restaurants, both excellent of their type - the formal Orchids, which overlooks gardens at the back, and the smart-casual Perrotts - and a redesigned bar that skilfully links the contrasting traditional and contemporary styles of the interior.

Spacious suites and guest rooms vary in decor, are beautifully furnished with antiques and have generous marbled bathrooms, all with separate bath and shower.

This Cork hotels on-site amenities include the unusual new Beautique spa, with indoor pool, and treatment rooms furnished with antiques.

*Hayfield Manor was our Hotel of the Year in 2006.

Conferences/Banqueting (110/120); business centre, secretarial service; free broadband wi/fi. 24 hr room service. Lift. Turndown service. Garden, golf nearby, leisure centre (fitness room, pool, steam room, jacuzzi); spa (treatment rooms, massage, hairdressing). Dogs permitted (staying in kennel).

Rooms 88. (4 suites, 4 interconnecting, 4 for disabled); children welcome (under 12s free in parents' room, cot available free of charge, baby sitting arranged). Lift. B&B about €100 pps, ss €65.

Orchids:

Since the refurbishment of Hayfield's Bar - a judicious blend of traditional and contemporary, resulting in the cosy atmosphere of a traditional bar, with chic modern touches - it has become an appealing place for an aperitif before going in to this fine dining restaurant, which overlooks the walled garden at the back of the hotel and has recently been completely refurbished in an elegant contemporary style that works well with the old style of the building.

Well spaced tables are very comfortably arranged in three sections, with the main area opening onto the garden, and a raised section beside it.

Emphasising the relative formality - Orchids is normally an evening restaurant, although open for lunch when there is demand - tables are set up classically, with pristine white linen and gleaming glasses.

Menus are based on local produce where possible, and continue the tradition of fairly classical cuisine with an occasional contemporary twist for which this restaurant is well known - and a meal here is always enhanced by professional and caring service.

Perrotts:

In a conservatory area at the front of the hotel, this smart and relaxing contemporary restaurant offers an informal alternative to dining in Orchids. Open for lunch and dinner daily, it has a bright and airy atmosphere and plenty of greenery, and quickly became established as a favoured destination with discerning Corkonians who enjoy the ambience and stylish bistro cooking.

The choice of dishes offered is wide, ranging from updated classics, to international lunchtime favourites like Perrotts home-made burger with bacon and Emmenthal cheese, spicy guacomole and tomato relish dip, and hand-cut chips.

Stylish surroundings, varied menus, confident cooking and helpful, attentive service make for a very enjoyable dining experience

Orchids: Seats 90; children welcome; air conditioning. L Sun only 12.30-2pm, €32. D Mon-Sat, 7-9.30. Set D €65, also á la carte. House wine from €31.75. SC in restaurant of 10% on parties of 10+. Perrotts Restaurant, 12-2.30 & 6-9.30 daily. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Opposite University College Cork - signed off College Road.