Ballymaloe House Hotel

Ballymaloe House Hotel is a family-owned countryside haven with 32 unique bedrooms, renowned for farm-to-table dining and exemplary Irish hospitality.

Set within 300 acres and just 30 minutes from Cork, Ballymaloe House blends simple elegance with historic charm, offering peaceful stays in the tranquil East Cork countryside.

Originally a 15th-century Norman castle, the house is rich in history, meticulously preserved and enhanced through sustainable renovations. Over the years, the family home has evolved into an elegant country house hotel, seamlessly combining its original character and charm with modern comforts.

The property includes 30 bedrooms and two suites, located in the Main House and the Courtyard. The dining experience unfolds across seven dining rooms, and menus are overseen by Head Chef Dervilla O’Flynn. Dishes are created using seasonal produce grown in the Walled Garden and on the Farm, or sourced from trusted local producers, emphasising our commitment to sustainability.

Dining includes a five-course dinner (concluding with our signature Dessert Trolley) Monday to Saturday, and a four-course dinner on Sundays. The light-filled Conservatory is available for lunch daily.

Guests are invited to enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee and a slice of cake on arrival, served in the Drawing Room. There is a variety of on-site activities, such as walking in the gardens or woodlands, cycling, a game of tennis or croquet, and swimming in summer. Complimentary daily guided tours include Ballymaloe history, biodiversity, the Walled Garden, and the historic Wine Cellar.

Ballymaloe House Hotel is a founding member of Ireland’s Blue Book and member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Considerate Collection. Established in 1964 by Myrtle and Ivan Allen.

Recent Awards:

2025: Culinary Haven of the Year by Good Food Ireland

2025: Host of the Year to Fern Allen by Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards

2024: Silver Award Menu Provenance at Hotel and Catering Gold Medal Award

2024: Best Hotel in Ireland Cesar Award by Good Hotel Guide

2023: Best Sustainable Business Innovation Award by Cork Business Association

2023: Best Hotel and Guesthouse Restaurant in Cork by Irish Restaurant Awards

2023: Culinary Haven of the Year by Good Food Ireland

Proprietors: The Allen Family

General Manager: Laura Behan