Ballykealey House — Attraction in The Municipal District of Tullow

A location that would have been 5 stars but for experiences during the stay, particularly arrival.

Booked a self catering lodge, as recommended, as taking the 2 dogs along and not possible to stay in the House itself. When booking I was notified that due there being a wedding on the Friday, dinner in the House would not be an option but a menu could be used to order and have delivered.

Received a call Friday morning to confirm all was proceeding and I advised an approx evening arrival, traffic permitting. Arrived Friday evening, charge already taken for the lodge, and was told a, menu would be dropped over,, sometime later with no sign, walked back across to be informed that no dinner would be provided as the chef had gone. A duty manager then arrived, I expressed my frustrations, which I admit became stronger, when the duty manager continually stated that due to Covid I should have pre booked the meal, so it was my fault! Eventually they said they would speak to the manager I booked with. Shortly after, another manager came to the lodge asking for my dinner choice from some options and within 15 minutes, a delicious dinner was presented.

From that point on, the staff were a delight, engaging and helpful.

Breakfast one morning had the problem of multiple weddings guests strolling around without masks in the breakfast area. including the buffet section, this issue was sorted by the next meal.

Called to book breakfast for Monday morning to be advised that the main House would close up Sunday evening, no food available. No lighting either apart from near the lodges when the House, closes up.

So, in conclusion when being given a lodge.

Get in writing any dining options, discussed Remember that unless you know you must switch on the immersion heater in your lodge, and know where it is, you will have no hot water for showers! If you have dogs, they will enjoy the stay, the TV's have YouTube and dog soothing music channels, set up 👍 they work. But you will need to bring your own dog beds bowls etc. Enjoy the location and at night, if clear, look up, perhaps bring good binoculars or a telescope saw multiple satellites plus the International Space Station. Bring a torch for late night dog walks (and cleaning...

We cannot say enough good things about Ballykealey House! We visited a number of places during our venue search but Ballykealey just felt ‘right’ immediately. The warmth of Angela (our wedding coordinator) during that first visit was a huge factor. As time went on we felt that same warmth and friendliness from all the staff. As with most hospitality businesses, it’s the people that make all the difference. Alison, Wesley, Luke, Bruno, James, and the rest of the crew couldn’t do enough for us and it made our day so special.

We had the best weekend ever celebrating our wedding. We had the whole thing on site from ceremony to day 2 BBQ and party. Our friends and family have been raving about the wonderful food, service and overall venue experience. So many people have commented on how special the weekend felt. Having the place to ourselves for both days certainly fed into that. We couldn’t recommend Ballykealey House and the team enough. If you’re looking for a private venue with options for outdoor and indoor ceremony and drinks reception, the most amazing food and wine (with generous portions) and super friendly and efficient service then you’ve found the place.

Donnacha Ryan &...

We would like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to everybody at Ballykealey House for making our wedding day in July the happiest and most special day we could have wished for.

All of our guests were over the moon with the warm welcome, hospitality, and quality of food they received on the day, and for those who stayed the night, spoke so highly of the cleanliness and comfort in both the lodges and the main house itself.

A special mention to Angela who made our planning experience so easy and enjoyable, and always dealt with us with a friendly smile. Also, to Luke, Alison, Ian (Management) ,Saibh & Aoife (Reception) Mary & Alan (Breakfast hall) , Jon, and Tom the night Porter, and everyone else we have failed to mention, Thank You! You all create such a family feel to Ballykeally, and your relationships with one and other are a pleasure to behold.

Having our second day at the barn was one of our personal favorite memories from our time with you. Wesley was exceptional, and his team were so accommodating. The BBQ food was incredible!!

We couldn’t recommend your venue highly enough, and we look forward to visiting again very...