Stepping into the Past, Embracing the Present.
Victorian heritage with modern comforts at Foyle's Hotel, Clifden
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| . Celebrity chefs. Not really. Recognise anyone? Gerard King's painting is always a talking point in Marconi's |
Imagine sinking into a plush armchair in Foyle's Hotel's foyer. The ornate wooden staircase whispers stories of a bygone era, transporting you to a time of classic elegance.
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| Marconi's |
More Than Just a Stay: A Local Experience
Foyle's is a rare gem – a family-run haven where tradition meets friendly service. The staff go beyond helpfulness, transforming into local guides. They'll recommend hidden gems and share fascinating tales of Clifden's rich history, ensuring you get the most out of your visit.
Mullarkey's Bar: Where History Meets Craic
Stroll into Mullarkey's Bar, one of Clifden's premier music venues. This lively pub, located within Foyle's but open to all, welcomes both hotel guests and local characters. Weekends often feature national and international acts (check with the hotel social media for details). Mullarkey's is renowned for its infectious energy, impromptu gigs, and the quintessential Irish "craic". Be sure and try the local Bridewell beers and the Micil spirits (includes a peated whiskey).
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| Sky Road, Clifden |
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| Start the day with an Irish fry. This is the mini version! |
A Feast for the Senses: The Marconi Restaurant
Indulge in culinary delights at the Marconi Restaurant. Savour melt-in-your-mouth Connemara lamb drizzled with a rosemary garlic jus, or tempt your palate with pan-fried hake bathed in fragrant garlic lemon butter. The kitchen's focus is on fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced locally where possible, specialising in Seafood and traditional Irish favourites. Take time to have a look around you as it is full of interesting artefacts covering the history of Connemara and the hotel and more. Expect an efficient and friendly service and creative cooking, all offered at a fair price in a relaxed ambience.
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| Housing for a ship's compass |
A Whimsical Journey Through Time
Between courses, be captivated by the eye-catching memorabilia adorning the walls. Photos (even paintings) of legendary guests mingle with nautical treasures, including a full-sized merchant navy compass housing. Immerse yourself in history – you're dining where Alcock & Brown's transatlantic triumph echoed through the parish and pioneer Marconi established his most easterly radio station in the early 1900s.
Large posters add a touch of whimsy. One features a dramatic recreation of the New York Times headline announcing the Titanic's sinking. Another, a colourful Spanish bullfight poster, playfully depicts one Eddie Foyle sharing top billing with legendary matadors.
Interspersed are old photos of film stars like Hedy Lamarr and Sean Connery, alongside an unusual painting showcasing famous guests reimagined as chefs. See if you can recognise Winston Churchill or Seamus Heaney among the notable faces!
A Culinary Adventure for All Palates
The Marconi Restaurant's extensive à la carte menu offers a delightful selection with seafood lovers, meat eaters and vegetarians catered for. All mains are served with generous sides of Vegetables and Potatoes.
A superbly produced Lamb Shank set on a bed of Mash Served with Honey and Thyme infused Batton Vegetables was one of our delicious mains. The other, equally satisfying, was the Seabass with wilted greens and a caper butter sauce. These two illustrated the excellent quality and generous quantity you can expect in this hotel.
We started with Confit of Duck Spring Roll with Asian Greens and a Caramelised Orange & Sesame Seed Sauce and a lovely light Whipped Cheese with Aubergine Chips and Apple.
The Foyle family's commitment to local sourcing extends to the beers on tap, including the local Bridewell ales and pilsner. While Marconi's also offer a well-priced wine list, we chose a couple of pints of the local ale brewed by Kevin O'Hara in the nearby Bridewell Lane. When in Rome....
We certainly enjoyed the friendly efficient service and the creative cooking, all offered at a fair price in a relaxed ambience.
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| Come on in! |
A Place to Make Memories
Foyle's Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience. Embrace the timeless charm, savour delectable cuisine, and create lasting memories in this haven where history whispers, comfort reigns, and the spirit of Clifden comes alive.
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| Clifden, from a nearby hill |
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| Mural on Foyle's. |
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