Ariel House, nestled on Dublin’s Lansdowne Road, seamlessly combines the charm of a guesthouse with the luxury of a hotel. After 22 years of being run by the McKeown family, Ariel House recently joined Ireland’s esteemed iNua hotel collection and invested €500,000 in renovating its ground floor and 14 bedrooms. This transformation perfectly balances modernization with the preservation of its beloved heritage.
Upon entering Ariel House, you are immediately enveloped in a cozy townhouse ambiance. The drawing room features an honesty bar and inviting couches, while a table adorned with books, water jugs, and delectable homemade cakes awaits. The 24/7 reception desk is staffed with friendly individuals donning white shirts and waistcoats, leaving guests unable to determine whether they are in a guesthouse or hotel. But that’s precisely the intention of managing director Jennie McKeown – she wants Ariel House to feel like a true home away from home.
The breakfast room, housed in a charming conservatory with sage-green chairs and a refurbished tiled fireplace, exudes a sense of style. The reception area is bathed in a soothing cornflour blue, and blue-on-white illustrations of birds and nature scenes adorn menus, signage, and even water cartons, adding an elegant touch. McKeown is also working on a guest directory featuring recommendations such as the popular dining spots Mae and The Chophouse (although Ariel House does not serve dinner).
Ariel House is akin to a Tardis, with narrow corridors and winding staircases leading to numerous rooms spread across the three Victorian buildings and garden extension. Accommodations range from a grand master suite with high ceilings and a bay window to more standard double rooms. While the bathrooms are a bit outdated, upgrades are planned for the near future.
Minor details, such as room numbers affixed to leather keychains and the tarred extension roof encroaching on the garden, can be adjusted to enhance the overall experience. These small adjustments would further elevate the already refined atmosphere of Ariel House.
When it comes to breakfast, guests are in for a treat. Chef Rose pours love and care into every dish, offering an array of options including homemade banana bread, granola, pastries, and à la carte choices such as pancakes and O’Neill’s streaky bacon. Vegetarian and meaty versions of the full Irish breakfast are also available. The breakfast room is a hub of activity, hosting a mix of couples, North American tourists, and midweek business travelers. Even the staff is treated to Rose’s culinary creations.
Whether you categorize Ariel House as a hotel or guesthouse, its essence is similar to that of Stauntons on the Green or Number 31. It serves as both a convenient base in the heart of the city and a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets. This makes Ariel House a perfect addition to your list of preferred accommodations.
Book your bed and breakfast stay at Ariel House starting from €170. Pól Ó Conghaile stayed as a guest during his visit. Visit arielhouse.ie for more information.
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