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Imperial Hotel

This thriving hotel in Cork's main commercial and banking centre dates back to 1813 and has a colourful history - Michael Collins spent his last night here, no less, and that suite now bears his name.

However, it's this Cork hotels convenient location - near the river and just a couple of minutes walk from the Patrick Street shopping area - that has always made it so popular for business and pleasure, also the free car parking available for residents.

It has been run by the Flynn family (of the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis, Co Clare) since 1998, and they have recently completed a major renovation and refurbishment of the hotel, which has brought new life to its fine old public areas and transformed others: the popular Pembroke Restaurant, for example, is now a more spacious and stylish contemporary restaurant, allowing for changing moods throughout the day, and Souths Bar has retained its character alongside the introduction of updated furnishings.

As well as upgrading existing bedrooms, new superior rooms have been added and also a stunning 2-bedroom penthouse suite with wraparound balcony and views over the city.

Most recently, the Escape Lifestyle & Salon Spa became the first of its kind in Ireland. Live jazz in the bar on Friday nights is popular with guests and locals alike.

Attractive weekend and off-season rates are offered.

Conference/banqueting (280/230); business centre, video conferencing, free broadband wi/fi; private car park. Rooms 126 (1 suite, 34 executive, 11 family, 4 single, 8 shower-only, 2 for disabled); children welcome (under 12s free in parents room, cots available without charge, baby sitting arranged). No pets. Lift. 24 hour room service. B&B €75-85 pps, ss €30. Spa, sauna, steam room, massage, beauty treatments, hair dressing, beauty salon. Closed 24-26 Dec. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

City centre location.