Horse & Hound

The Horse and Hound is a charming and quintessential Irish pub with an attached hotel, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes guests feel right at home. Its signature feature is the lively traditional bar and beautiful outdoor terrace, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and socializing. This establishment is an ideal fit for couples seeking a cozy getaway, families looking for a welcoming environment, and tourists eager to experience authentic Irish hospitality. Guests consistently praise the delicious food and the exceptional service provided by the staff. To make the most of your stay, be aware that breakfast is not served on-site, but excellent local bakeries and cafes are just a short walk away. Also, if you prefer a quieter room, consider requesting one away from the front of the building, especially on weekend nights.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's most celebrated amenities include its lively traditional bar and the gorgeous outdoor terrace or beer garden, which many guests describe as a lovely and buzzing spot, particularly in the evenings. These areas provide a fantastic atmosphere for enjoying drinks and meals. While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool or fitness center, the focus on its pub and dining facilities creates a vibrant social hub. Guests appreciate the convenience of ample parking available at the back of the property, although some note the entrance to the car park can be narrow. The rooms are equipped with coffee and tea making facilities, and some even include Sky TV, adding to the comfort and convenience for guests.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the hotel's spotless cleanliness throughout the rooms and common areas, contributing significantly to a pleasant stay. Most rooms are described as comfortable and well-decorated, with many highlighting the very comfortable beds and high-quality linens that ensure a restful sleep. However, feedback on room size is mixed; while some guests enjoyed spacious rooms, a notable number found their rooms, particularly the "small double" and "cozy twin" options, to be quite compact. The bathrooms in these smaller rooms are often described as tiny or a tight fit, with some noting difficulty in maneuvering or closing the door while seated. Noise levels can vary, with rooms above the bar potentially experiencing lively sounds until late, though many rooms are reported as quiet. Some guests also mentioned issues with room temperature, finding them too warm without air conditioning, and occasional minor maintenance issues like a dusty vent or faulty toilet door handle.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options consistently receive high praise, with many guests describing the food as incredible, delicious, and of a very high standard. Both the bar food and the restaurant (often referred to as The Bellevue Restaurant) are highly recommended. Popular dishes mentioned include roast beef, mussels, fish and chips, and Korean fried chicken, with many noting the excellent quality and fresh ingredients. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some guests found portion sizes for main courses to be small or the food to be over-seasoned or salty. The Guinness served in the bar is frequently highlighted as being delicious and perfectly poured, adding to the authentic pub experience. The restaurant atmosphere is often described as cosy, inviting, and beautifully styled, making it a popular choice for special occasions and regular visits.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a good location in the quaint village of Delgany, which guests find charming and peaceful. It is conveniently situated for exploring the Wicklow Mountains and is only a short drive, approximately 5-8 minutes, from the seafront town of Greystones. This makes it an excellent base for hiking enthusiasts and those looking to discover the scenic beauty of County Wicklow. While the village itself is quiet, guests appreciate the proximity to local amenities, including a great bakery and other food options within walking distance. The hotel also offers ample parking at the back, providing convenience for guests traveling by car. For those relying on public transport, there are good transport links to Dublin and other villages in Wicklow.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive glowing reviews, with guests frequently describing them as friendly, helpful, welcoming, and attentive. Many highlight their willingness to "go above and beyond" to ensure a positive stay, from providing a warm welcome and tour of facilities to assisting with taxi bookings and accommodating special requests. The check-in process, typically handled at the bar, is noted as easy and quick, despite the busy environment. Guests appreciate the professional and courteous service in both the bar and restaurant, with staff members often remembered for their engaging conversations and efficiency. The overall sentiment is that the staff's dedication to excellent service significantly enhances the guest experience, making many eager to return.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that breakfast is not included with the stay, and there is no on-site breakfast service. However, several excellent local options, such as the Pigeon House and Firehouse Bakery, are conveniently located nearby for morning meals. The hotel has a pet-friendly policy, though specific details on accommodations for pets are not widely reviewed. For those planning to stay on a weekend, particularly in rooms located above the bar, it's important to note that the lively pub atmosphere can lead to noise until late hours. The hotel offers free parking for guests, which is a significant convenience. Some guests also noted the presence of traditional music nights in the bar, adding to the authentic Irish experience.