The Johnstown Estate

The hotel is widely celebrated for its impressive spa facilities, particularly the thermal suite and rooftop hydro pool, which many guests describe as a must-visit and a highlight of their stay. This makes it an ideal destination for couples and friends seeking a relaxing and luxurious getaway. The property itself is often described as beautiful, with well-maintained grounds and a welcoming atmosphere. While the spa is a consistent draw, feedback on dining and room comfort is more varied. For families, the availability of lodges and leisure facilities makes it a suitable choice, and business travelers find the conference amenities well-suited to their needs. To maximize your experience, it is advisable to book spa treatments and thermal suite access well in advance due to high demand, and be aware that some rooms may experience heating issues, so inquire about cooling options if this is a concern.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel's spa is a standout feature, with guests praising the thermal suite, salt rooms, steam rooms, saunas, and the unique rooftop hydro pool and jacuzzi. Many describe the spa as beautiful, clean, and calming, offering a luxurious and relaxing experience. The gym is also highly rated, noted for its recent refurbishment, spaciousness, and wide array of equipment. However, feedback on the main pool and leisure facilities is mixed; some guests found them dated, busy with children's swimming lessons, or experiencing maintenance issues such as a non-functional plunge pool or broken tiles in the outdoor jacuzzi. EV charging facilities are available and complimentary for guests, though some noted issues with availability due to staff cars. Free Wi-Fi is generally available, ensuring guests can stay connected.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Rooms are generally described as spacious, clean, and well-appointed, with many appreciating the up-to-date and modern decor. Most guests found the beds comfortable, ensuring a restful sleep. However, some experienced issues with uncomfortable beds, particularly twin beds pushed together with uneven mattresses. While some found the bathrooms spacious, others noted them as dated, with chipped tiles, poor shower pressure, or mildew. A significant recurring issue is the rooms being too warm due to no air conditioning and heating systems that are difficult to control, with windows only opening minimally. Noise from hallways and slamming doors was also mentioned by some. Amenities like robes are provided, though some found them too small, and a few guests reported Netflix not working or a lack of a luggage rack.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast consistently receives high praise for its excellent variety and tasty options, with many guests highlighting the generous portions. However, some noted issues with food temperature, finding items barely lukewarm, and occasional shortages of popular items like pastries. A surcharge for omelettes was also a point of contention for some. The Fire & Salt restaurant is generally considered a formal, fine-dining experience with excellent food and service, though a few guests found dishes dry or overpriced. The Coach House Brasserie also receives positive comments for its food, though some found the menu limited or the food cold. The cocktail bar is popular for its well-made drinks and good atmosphere, despite being considered expensive by some. Bar food received mixed reviews, with some finding it delicious and others describing it as poor or cold.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel is set within beautiful grounds, offering a peaceful and picturesque environment nestled in the countryside. Its location is highly convenient, being close to Dublin and easily accessible by car, situated directly on the motorway exit. This makes it a practical choice for those traveling from the city or attending conferences. Guests appreciate the plenty of parking available on-site, including EV charging facilities that are complimentary for hotel guests. While some guests noted motorway noise, many found they quickly adjusted to it, and it did not significantly detract from their overall experience. The expansive grounds also offer pleasant areas for short walks.

Staff & Service
The staff consistently receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, attentive, and professional. Many guests highlighted their welcoming demeanor and willingness to go above and beyond, such as assisting with early check-ins, accommodating special requests, and providing excellent service in dining areas. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as smooth and efficient. However, some guests reported instances of slow service in restaurants and bars, particularly during busy periods, leading to long waits for food and drinks or forgotten orders. A few reviews mentioned a perceived lack of visible management or unaddressed complaints regarding billing issues or room problems, which impacted their overall satisfaction.

Additional Information
The hotel offers various accommodation types, including well-regarded lodges that are described as clean, comfortable, and high-end, providing an excellent option for groups or families. Guests should be aware that the check-in time is 4 PM, which some found to be later than typical. The in-room televisions often lack smart features, with limited channels and no options for streaming services like Netflix, which some guests found disappointing. Furthermore, some guests noted that the hotel's leisure facilities and certain bar areas are open to the public, which can lead to crowded conditions and impact the experience for hotel residents, particularly in the pool area.