Kerry is always a stunning destination and a stay at The Lansdowne Kenmare would be a real treat by any standards.
One of Kenmare's oldest buildings, The Lansdowne Kenmare was built as the town residence of William Petty Fitzmaurice, 2nd Earl of Shelburne, in 1790, and it's been at the heart of the town's activities ever since. Having been bought and reopened by the Brennan brothers in 2021, following a closure, it changed hands again this January when returning native Patrick Hanley and his wife Aileen – both well-known hoteliers and current proprietors of the acclaimed Wexford gastro-pub The Strand Cahore – took over.
Formerly known as The Lansdowne Arms, it was previously owned by Patrick’s parents Patrick’s parents, Breda and Bobby Hanley, so taking on this landmark property was very much a homecoming for the new owners, who are now putting their personal stamp on it as a boutique hotel where the guest experience is casual and there’s an emphasis on service.
The 28 individually decorated rooms boast super comfy beds, Francis Brennan bedding and towels, VOYA toiletries and much more besides, while dining options include a lovely big Outdoor Terrace and The Nead continental style café, as well as the main Shelburne Street restaurant where an excellent breakfast and dinner are served. The new Head Chef, Tony Schwarz, is well known in the region from his time at several acclaimed kitchens, including The Mustard Seed at Ballingarry Co Limerick, so there’s plenty to look forward to as he keeps the focus on local and seasonal flavours in his stylish modern cooking. And there’s fun to be had here too in The Poet’s Bar, where champagne and cocktails are the order of the day, with piano music at weekends.
There's a real sense of pride in this revitalised hotel with its smart fresh look and traditional values, and The Lansdowne Kenmare is once again becoming a favourite destination in this delightful town, where everything is within easy walking distance.
The lucky winner of this free competition will have a short break of of 2 nights B&B and 1 dinner, for two people sharing (subject to availability), to include:
