Hayfield Manor, Cork - anyone stayed there?

[MuffinMclay]

Planning a romantic weekend away at the start of Sept, and this is on our shortlist.

Is it very dressy? Is the restaurant any good? Dh is keen to go, but we can't decide whether (if we go) to book a rate that includes dinner or not.

Or The Clarion, Cork. Think that looks a lot more 'me' than Hayfield Manor.

If you go to www.tripadvisor.com and type in the hotel name you will find reviews from people who have stayed there. Just looked and Hayfield Manor has good reviews.

Dh has banned me from tripadvisor! I keep vetoing hotels that he suggests because of bad or mixed reviews on there. I'll have to sneak a look when he is distracted elsewhere.

Dh works beside Hayfield Manor, I have only been in for coffee... People coming in and out look smart/casual in daytime - chinos, not jeans. I have never been in the Clarion, but someone told me that the restaurant was excellent, it looks quite funky and is closer to the city centre. We had friends who stayed in the Imperial and liked it, my neighbour's daughter had her wedding reception there. Neighbour is like Hyacinth Bouquet, so fussy... I have been in its coffee shop which is nice. (Spot the theme, I love coffee shops!) Enjoy the trip, it will have stopped raining by Sept.

I would choose Hayfield Manor over the Clarion if I had the choice.

Have eaten at the Clarion and it is ok but nothing special. Seems like a typical city centre hotel catering for mostly business customers and tourists.

Haven't been to Hayfield Manor but friends have and it is supposed to be good - and would be better for a romantic weekend away imo.

Another good one is Maryborough House Hotel on the south side of the city.

If you want to eat out at a different restaurant there are some great ones in Cork City - Cafe Paradiso is a v. well known vegetarian restaurant that meat eaters would also enjoy. One of my favourites is The Ivory Tower - imo one of the best chefs in the city.

If you were prepared to venture 20 miles or so outside the city I could recommend a truly great country house hotel with the most amazing food - perfect for a romantic weekend...

www.longuevillehouse.ie