Riverbank House Hotel

The hotel offers a distinctive old-world charm with its classic foyer and a timeless bar/restaurant area that provides river views, making it a memorable feature for guests. Its prime location is ideal for sightseers looking to explore the town, as well as couples and families seeking a comfortable and welcoming base. The hotel is consistently praised for its food quality and the exceptional friendliness of its staff. To enhance your stay, guests are advised to book dinner reservations early to secure a table with scenic river views, and be aware that while the hotel has character, some areas are noted as being dated and could benefit from updating.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently note that the hotel, while possessing a charming character, appears somewhat dated or old-fashioned in its facilities, suggesting a need for modernization in certain areas. On-site parking is available, though it can be limited, with a larger public car park conveniently located nearby, which is particularly useful as it is free on Sundays. Many guests experienced rooms that were excessively warm, often leading them to open windows for fresh air. The lifts are described as small and creaky, which some guests found notable. While the hotel generally provides necessary amenities, the overall impression is that some facilities could benefit from a refresh to match contemporary standards.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is mixed. While some guests found their rooms to be clean and spacious, many others described them as dated, tired, or old-fashioned, with observations of worn furniture and a general need for refurbishment. The beds received varied comments; some found them comfortable, including large king-size options, while others reported discomfort, particularly with two single beds pushed together creating an uncomfortable ridge. Bathrooms were frequently mentioned as being small and dated, with some guests noting issues like dim lighting or a lack of space for toiletries. Noise from outside, such as street noise or rubbish collection, was occasionally reported, especially when windows were open due to the rooms being warm. The presence of a coffee machine in the room was a welcome amenity for many.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's food quality is a significant highlight, consistently receiving high praise from guests. Many describe the meals as delicious, tasty, and served in generous portions, making dining a very satisfying experience. Breakfast is particularly well-regarded, frequently described as excellent with a good variety of options, including a traditional full Irish breakfast and popular dishes like eggs Benedict. The bar and restaurant areas are noted for their vibrant atmosphere and offer pleasant river views. The hotel also caters well to dietary needs, providing comprehensive gluten-free and vegan menus. While the overall dining experience is positive, some guests occasionally reported issues with food temperature, such as dishes being served lukewarm, or found certain items to be substandard or overpriced.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location on the banks of the Slaney River, offering picturesque views and a tranquil setting. It is conveniently situated just a short walk across the bridge to the town center, making it highly accessible for guests wishing to explore the local attractions, shops, and restaurants. The hotel's position also makes it a great base for visiting nearby beautiful beaches and serves as a practical stopover close to the ferry terminal. Parking is available on-site, though spaces can be limited, and there is a large public car park directly opposite the hotel, which is a convenient alternative and is notably free on Sundays.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive outstanding praise, being described as friendly, helpful, attentive, and highly professional. Guests frequently highlight their warm welcome and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Specific mentions include quick check-in processes and staff accommodating requests with efficiency and a positive attitude. Many reviews commend the team for their dedication to providing excellent service, creating a welcoming and family-like atmosphere. While the overwhelming majority of feedback is positive, a very small number of guests noted isolated instances where some staff appeared less cheerful or lacked specific training, such as in barista skills.

Additional Information
Guests appreciate the thoughtful gesture of receiving complimentary water bottles upon departure or available upon request, which is a small but valued detail. The hotel's location provides easy access to a public swimming pool nearby, offering an additional recreational option for guests. Many visitors are drawn to the hotel's distinctive old-world charm and traditional Irish character, which contributes significantly to its unique atmosphere. The hotel is also recognized for its family-friendly approach, occasionally hosting special events like an Easter bunny visit, which enhances the experience for younger guests.