Dinogo Readers’ Top 5 Resorts in the U.K. and Ireland for 2024

Determining the best resort in the U.K. and Ireland is no small task given the intense competition. Fortunately, Dinogo readers have shared their favorite country houses and magnificent castle hotels, highlighting the exceptional amenities, experiences, and moments of outstanding service that captured their hearts. Keep reading!

How the Voting Process Works

Annually, for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences worldwide — providing insights on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2024, over 186,000 T+L readers participated in the survey, casting more than 700,000 votes across 8,700 properties (including hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities, and were evaluated based on the criteria listed below:

Accommodations/amenities
Setting
Service quality
Cuisine
Price value

Respondents rated each aspect as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The overall scores represent the averages of these ratings.

What Readers Loved

This year, all but one winner were also highlighted in last year’s rankings: The Lodge at Ashford Castle (No.4), located within the grounds of Ashford Castle (No.2). Established in 1865 for the estate manager, the lodge features uniquely styled rooms, views of Lough Corrib, and a restaurant led by “one of the country’s most innovative chefs” — ideal for a sophisticated yet casual getaway. Nevertheless, guests were enamored with its illustrious sibling, Ashford Castle, renowned for its opulent interiors (think Waterford crystal chandeliers and Connemara marble) and welcoming Irish hospitality, attracting everyone from Julia Roberts to Prince Harry. “I’ve experienced numerous luxury hotels — Ashford Castle stands unmatched,” stated one guest, with another adding, “I’d visit every year if I had the chance.” T+L readers were equally enthusiastic about Gleneagles (No.5), one of Scotland’s most cherished country estate hotels, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year with a lavish centenary ball and special afternoon tea inspired by the hotel’s storied past, among other celebrations. “They call it the glorious playground, and I wholeheartedly agree — it’s paradise,” remarked one visitor. Another noted, “As soon as we checked out, we started planning our next visit.”

The Winner

Ballyfin: County Laois, Ireland

A view of the exterior of Ballyfin alongside the lake.

Image courtesy of Ballyfin

This magnificent Georgian estate nestled in Ireland’s Slieve Bloom Mountains has secured the runner-up position in our previous two surveys. This year, it has rightfully reclaimed the No.1 title. One guest remarked: “This was genuinely the most remarkable experience of my life — it elevates 5-star luxury to new heights.” Set on 614 acres of meticulously maintained grounds, the hotel features only 20 bedrooms and a private one-bedroom cottage, ensuring both exclusivity and highly personalized service. “Staying here feels like residing in a private estate,” shared a guest. While it's certainly tempting to relax and admire the hotel’s stunning art collection or enjoy the indoor pool, be sure to explore the outstanding activities available: horseback carriage rides, fishing on the premises, clay pigeon shooting, archery, and much more.