The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle

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Entire home

Front view of the rental cottage
Owners entrance around the corner

Ashford Old Schoolhouse. Rental wing on the left and owners entrance on right

Rental entrance on left, garden and driveway

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5

Popular amenities

Parking available
Washer
Fireplace
Kitchen
Barbecue grill
Outdoor space

Explore the area

Cong, Connemara, County Galway

Ashford Castle
‪11 min walk‬
Cong Abbey
‪16 min walk‬
Quiet Man Museum
‪18 min walk‬
Galway (GWY)
‪54 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

1 Double Bed

Bedroom 2

3 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Kitchen

Garden

Dining area

About this property

We welcome you to Ashford Old Schoolhouse in the beautiful surroundings of Ashford Estate and Cong village between Loughs Corrib and Mask. Enjoy the stay in our historical cottage built by the Guinness family in 1853. Surrounded by endless woodland walking and cycling paths and bordering the beautiful grounds and gardens of Ashford Castle hotel. Cong village with pubs and restaurants is just a 20 minute walk through the estate.

We are glad to offer professionally guided fishing for brown trout and Atlantic salmon. We provide a full angling service which includes guiding, boat rental and fly-fishing tuition. There is lots to do in the area for the whole family - horse riding, zip lining, golfing, falconry, archery and boat trips all within 5 minute walk. The area of Cong and Connemara is stunning for sightseeing, hill walking, beaches and little villages with cosy pubs. Kylemore Abbey, Clifden, Galway city and Westport all within less than an hours drive

Accommodation is situated in renovated wing of old Ashford Castle gate lodge with separate entrance, garden and parking. Double bedroom, bathroom, kitchen/living room with wood burning stove downstairs. Triple bedroom with 3 single beds upstairs and a bathroom upstairs. We look forward to welcoming you soon.

Property manager

Frank and Kersti Costello

Premier Host

Languages

English

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Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Outdoor space

Parking available

Barbecue grill

Fireplace

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Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Europe

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Cong, Connemara, County Galway

What's nearby

Ashford Castle - 11 min walk - 1.0 km
Ashford Castle Golf Club - 13 min walk - 1.2 km
Cong Mini Golf Club - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
Cong Abbey - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
Quiet Man Museum - 18 min walk - 1.5 km

Getting around

Claremorris Station - 41 min drive

Restaurants

‪Puddleducks Cafe - ‬7 min drive
‪Pat Cohan's Bar - ‬5 min drive
‪Cullen's at the Cottage - ‬13 min walk
‪Dungeon Bar - ‬10 min walk
‪The Crowe's Nest Pub - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within a 15-minute walk of Ashford Castle, Ashford Castle Golf Club and Cong Mini Golf Club. Cong Abbey and Quiet Man Museum are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

John G.

10 Mar 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely cottage in a great location

We thoroughly enjoyed are stay. The cottage was very comfortable, well equipped and clean. Frank and Kersi were great hosts. There are lovely walks around the grounds and down to the lake. Cong was quiet although I guess it will get busier as the season progresses. We look forward to a return visit.

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fiona M.

14 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect spot

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

roberta s.

24 Jun 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stunning location, beautiful wee house

Just driving through the castle grounds to this house was a treat. The house itself was just a picture. The best stay in Ireland North and south that we have had to date and we are both over 50 and 60. The location is stunning, the quietness and peaceful nature. Nothing to dislike and everything to love.

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Grainne C., Ireland

3 Feb 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A cosy retreat in an idyllic setting

Wonderful few days spent in this beautiful cottage with my family. It is full of charm and character and fully equipped with everything we needed for our stay. Situated on the grounds of Ashford Castle we were spoilt for great walks around the Castles gardens and is only a short walk into the quaint town of Cong. Throughly enjoyed our cosy nights spent by the stove fire ( generous supply of logs provided). Woulld definitely recommend watching the Quiet Man during your stay (dvd also available in the cottage) and recognising all the different locations from the film which surrounds the area. Even my teenager enjoyed it! Maybe a cliché but definitely memories were made, and hopefully one day we will return again to stay.

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

terry M.

13 Aug 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Tranquility 😀

Just back from a week at the Old Schoolhouse and I can confirm accuracy of all other 5* Reviews. The house is an absolute Gem set in the most perfect location. The grounds are beautiful for a morning/evening stroll (10 mins walk to Cong Village) and the Hospitality that Frank & Kersti provide is next to none. Until next time!

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mark H.

6 Nov 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Location. Location. Location

I'm afraid I don't have the word's to describe the quality of this accommodation. The area it's in with walk's on your doorstep and so much to do right on the castle grounds. The village of Cong a 20 minute stroll through the castle gardens is where the Quiet man was filmed and the School House is in one scene in the film and many other locations are in walking distance. The cottage has everything you need for your stay. We stayed at the start of November and it has central heating and a wood burner with stock's of wood to use through your stay. The owners live in the property next door and were always available for any assistance needed . Thank you Frank and Kersti for letting us share your wonderful accommodation. We hope to return some day. Mark, Kerry and Heather

10/10 Excellent

Jodie I.

2 Oct 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely stay

Pretty cottage located in the grounds of Ashford Castle, in the quaint village of Cong. A great location for exploring Galway, Clare and beyond. Could have happily stayed longer than a week. Frank & Kersti were great help and always on hand if we needed anything. Loved the cottage, was so clean and cosy. Would definitely recommend!

10/10 Excellent

Robert H.

14 Sept 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ashford Castle Estate Old School House

Beautiful cottage with immediate access to the fantastic grounds and views of Ashford Castle, one of Ireland's top hotels and estate. Close to Connemara and Galway.

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Cliodhna G.

15 Aug 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous place

We had an amazing week here. We didnt move off the estate. Hired bikes, did zip lining, tree climbing, pony riding and fishing... and visited the wooded beach for swimming in lough corrib almost everyday.. house was perfect for our family of 5.. the peace and quiet was priceless..and the scenery stunning. We will come back for definite.. tks Kerstie and Frank

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Elaine L.

1 Aug 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tranquility

This property is picturesque and tranquil. It is a story book cottage well maintained and beautifully presented by Frank and Kirsty. The local walks and nearby areas are a delight! Overall a very relaxing break.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Deborah J.

16 Jun 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family outing

Delightful Comfortable Pleasure

Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2019

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Sydney M., Cincinnati, OH USA

7 May 2016

A little bit of Heaven in Ireland

We very much enjoyed our stay at the Schoolhouse! Such a charming place with detailed touches of comfort and charm. It was a week of needed respite, relaxation and peace in a perfect setting. Frank And Kersti Costello were wonderful hosts and I can hardly wait to return. We loved exploring the area, taking long walks, and spending a quiet evening in front of the fireplace. I loved watching the stars through the skylight in the bedroom an the occasional clear night. Thank you both for your kindness and sharing this beautiful place.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2016

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

David C.

29 Feb 2016

Warm, cosy cottage in superb setting

We had a lovely family holiday in the middle of winter and had a splendid time. Frank and Kirsti were impeccable hosts, leaving us to our own devices and facilitating all needs. We fished, walked, did some falconry and lots of sightseeing in Connemara. A perfect break. Will do this again. Thoroughly recommended. From Hong Kong

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Mieke V.

20 Sept 2015

Really perfect place to stay on holidays

We tremendously enjoyed our stay in the Old School House. It's a perfect base for trips in and around the counties of Galway and Mayo. And if you don't want to go too far away, the woods around the castle grounds are well suited for leisurely walks. The cottage is cosy, clean and, as we Dutch would say, "gezellig". Which is even made more agreeable by the warm hospitality of the owners Frank and Kersti and the nice scones provided by the latter. The pubs in Cong provide very good food and are in walking distance (about 20 minutes or so). We especially liked Lydon's and The Crows Nest. If you like fishing, you can do no better than ask Frank, who is a professional fishing guide to give you tips about fishing on Lough Corrib. He also rents out boats and all for a very reasonable fee. This has been one of the best holidays we ever had and will certainly recommend the cottage to anyone who wants to visit Ireland. It's been a wonderful introduction to the country. Mieke, Rian, Alphons and Geert, the Netherlands.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ernesto S., Germany

27 Sept 2014

Wonderful days in a magic place

We, a family of five, spent our Easter Holidays in Ashford Old Schoolhouse. This beautiful location offers so much possibilities for walking, riding, visiting and discovering the amazing Connemara landscape that we obviously have to come back. The cozy atmosphere of the schoolhouse and the very warm welcome by the owners Frank and Kirstie with delicious scones made us fall in love with that place. Cong and its fairy tale wood are so exceptional beautiful. We had one of our best vacations there.

10/10 Excellent

elizabeth a.

28 Jan 2025

Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathi W.

11 Dec 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent

We had a great stay. Nice areas to walk - trails around. Ten minutes to the castle - 5 minutes to the falconry. 15-20 minutes to Cong.

Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

29 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best Place We Stayed

We stayed at The Old School House for 5 nights in October. It was like something out of a fairytale! The house is a small little place in Ashford Castle grounds, which is breath taking! We will definitely be staying here again!!

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dan W.

28 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Magical retreat

Charming hosts Kristy and Frank. Have a lovely cottage with everything you need. Stay a week and enjoy the gardens the trails the people and the history.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Danny D.

12 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The ideal place to stay

My wife and I stayed for a week and couldn’t have been happier with the location and accommodations. Quiet, secure, and very clean. We won’t stay anywhere else when returning to this area of Ireland.

Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Morgan M.

5 Oct 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay!

The Old Schoolhouse is a magical place to stay. The hosts are the nicest people and most helpful. The accommodations were as described and vet comfortable. Good location for walks and day trips. Highly recommend

Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas M.

30 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our stay

Great place Host are great Stayed September 7-28 Loved the cottage

Stayed 21 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kevin M.

4 Sept 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

This is the best VRBO experience we have had. This cottage is magical and sits right on the Ashford Castle grounds, a short stroll to the entrance to the Ashford Gardens. The gardens stretch about a 1/4 mile from the cottage directly to the castle. Along he way are spectacular gardens and always a Falconer along with their guests.the cottage is a walk to the village of Cong, a charming Irish village with pubs, restaurants, and shops, famous for the Quiet Man movie. This cottage and the surroundings were truly magical.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ellen B.

12 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

Wonderful lovely cottage in a great surrounding ! The host are very friendly

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Andreas U.

8 Aug 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sehr charmantes, historisches Haus in idyllischer Lage

Wir wurden nett von Kersti empfangen. Sie ist hilfsbereit und steht bei Fragen immer zu Verfügung. Wir haben die schöne und absolut ruhige Lage sehr genossen. Das Haus hat den Charme eines historischen Gebäudes und ist gleichzeitig gemütlich, komfortabel und mit allem, was man braucht, eingerichtet. Wir haben auch einige schöne Abende am Kaminfeuer verbracht. Und wir haben den Weg durch den Schlosspark genossen. Wenn man etwas in der Nähe machen will, kann man den Corribsee genießen oder das Dorf Cong besichtigen. In weniger als einer Autostunde ist man in Galway, Cliffden, Westport oder bei der Fähre zu den Araninseln. Wir empfehlen das Ashford Old Schoolhouse wärmstens.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

About the host

Hosted by Frank and Kersti Costello

Frank is a second generation gillie. Frank's father Jim started guiding 1939 for Ashord Castle. Frank continued his profession since 1993. Frank is Board Failte approved marine and countryside guide and also Orvis endorsed fishing guide.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests

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The Cottage Is A Renovated Wing Of An Old Victorian Gate Lodge Of Ashford Castle

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Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

Bedroom 2

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

Spaces

About this property