"The fern gardens are second to none and loved the sky walk rope bridge."
avibags from Ireland
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"The restaurant serves Thai food in the evening in a dining room overlooking the bay."
Paul F from Ireland
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"The gardens surrounding the hotel were well maintained and beautiful, providing a lot of hiking area, both up the hill and down to the bay."
Mark F from United States
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Gardens & Nature Trails
Kells Bay House and Gardens showcases a stunning collection of sub-tropical gardens, with unique landscapes ranging from walled gardens to primeval forests. Guests can explore the diverse habitats, including the cliff and riverside walks that offer breathtaking views of Dingle Bay and the surrounding mountains. Special attractions include the Bamboo Glade and the dramatic Gunnera Pool, providing serene spots to enjoy nature.
Accommodations
The hotel features a variety of guest rooms including the spacious Alexander Room, which provides expansive views of the gardens, mountains, and bay. Each room highlights the Victorian charm with modern comforts, offering an inviting atmosphere directly inside Kells Bay House. The Bell Tower suite offers two floors of unique accommodation, capturing stunning sea views from every room.
Dining Options
Kells Bay House and Gardens offers an authentic dining experience at Sala Thai Restaurant, where regional and classic Thai dishes are prepared by chef owner Penn Alexander. The café at the Ticket Office serves traditional teas, scones, and snacks available throughout the day. For guests on the go, a takeaway service is also provided by Sala Thai.
Location & Access
Located along the Wild Atlantic Way, Kells Bay House and Gardens is a key stop on the Ring of Kerry, just a 50-minute drive from Killarney. The gardens are open year-round, offering a continuously changing view of the natural beauty. This picturesque setting makes it accessible for visits while exploring local attractions like ancient forts and scenic golf courses.
Special Plant Collection
The gardens feature a renowned plant collection specializing in rare and tender trees and shrubs primarily from the Southern Hemisphere. Notably, owner Billy Alexander has received multiple awards, including Gold Medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, for his work in cultivating and preserving these exotic plants. Guests can explore this botanical haven and even make purchases at the plant center.
Highlights
Gardens: Stunning collection of rare tropical plants
Dining: Authentic Thai cuisine at Sala Thai Restaurant
Awards: Multiple Gold Medals at RHS Chelsea Flower Show
Location: Along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way
Accommodations: Unique Bell Tower suite with sea views
“Kells Bay House And Gardens distinguishes itself with beautiful grounds overlooking the sea. I was particularly impressed by the well-maintained gardens and the comfortable, spacious rooms. The Thai restaurant onsite seems a genuine draw, reflecting the overall quality of the experience.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type
Kells Bay House And Gardens Villa offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Deluxe Double Room
2 persons
360 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Double Room Private External Bathroom
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Superior Double Room
2 persons
260 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
Superior Suite Sea View
2 persons
455 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Shower
Heating
room details
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Facilities
Kells Bay House And Gardens Villa offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities:
Perfect
9.1/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Free parking
No pets allowed
Luggage storage
Sports & Fitness
Fitness centre
Water sports
Cycling
Services
Room service
Dining
Restaurant
Spa & Leisure
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Free Wi-Fi in rooms
Sitting area
Terrace
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite
Kells Bay House and Gardens offers an inviting array of dining experiences, highlighted by the aromatic flavors of Thai cuisine and a casual café setting. Guests can indulge in authentic dishes while enjoying stunning views over Dingle Bay and relaxing in a cozy atmosphere.
Sala Thai Restaurant
Thai
Ambiance
Dining with tranquil views over Dingle Bay, enhancing the warm and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant.
Key Offerings
A thoughtful selection of vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options, bringing the richness of Thai cooking to every palate.
Reservation
Recommended.
Hours vary.
The Conservatory Café
Thai and European
Ambiance
A bright and airy space adorned with natural light, perfect for a relaxed meal or afternoon tea.
Key Offerings
Offering a menu that caters to vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets, allowing guests to enjoy delightful dishes with a European twist alongside its Thai inspirations.
Reservation
Not needed.
Hours vary.
Kells Bay House And Gardens Villa Location
Kells Bay,
Kells (Kerry),
Ireland,
Kerry
Map view
Kells Bay,
Kells (Kerry),
Ireland,
Kerry
City landmarks
Beach
Kells Bay Beach
1.1
mi
Landmark
Kells Beach
1.4
mi
Landmark
Headfort Golf Club
2.1
mi
Landmark
Mountain Stage
2.9
mi
Landmark
Kells Sheep Centre
3.1
mi
Nearby
Beach
Kells Bay Beach
300 ft
Restaurants
Kells Bay House and Gardens
200 ft
Restaurant
Explore Kells (Kerry)
Explore Kells Bay
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Kells Bay Beach
20 minutes' walk
Kells Bay Beach offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Kells Beach
25 minutes' walk
Kells Beach is a local favorite for swimming and sunbathing, featuring fine sand and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Headfort Golf Club
10-minute drive
Headfort Golf Club is renowned for its beautiful courses and welcoming environment, ideal for golf enthusiasts.
Kells Sheep Centre
15-minute drive
Kells Sheep Centre offers family-friendly activities, including sheep shearing demonstrations and petting areas.
Hiking Trails
20 minutes' drive
Various scenic trails around Kells offer hiking opportunities for all levels, showcasing the natural beauty of Kerry.
Yoga Retreats
10 minutes' drive
Relaxing yoga retreats nearby promote wellness and mindfulness, often set amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Kells Bay House and Gardens
5 minutes' walk
Farm-to-table cuisine in a charming setting, with fresh local ingredients and a seasonal menu. Reservations recommended.
Local Pubs
10 minutes' drive
Cozy pubs in the area often feature live traditional music, great for enjoying the local atmosphere and culture.
Getting around
City Centre
Kells (Kerry)2 min
·
400 ft
Airports
Kerry Airport (KIR)78 min
·
32.2
mi
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-21:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the villa rooms for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
Reviews and Ratings
Feedback about Kells Bay House And Gardens Villa from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 354 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
95%
Recommend
Breakfast
7.5/10
Cleanliness
9.2/10
Comfort
9.2/10
Facilities
9.1/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.6/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.5/10
Staff
9.3/10
Value for money
8.9/10
Pros
Peaceful location
Comfortable bed
Delicious breakfast
Cons
Room noise
Bathroom wear
No elevator
Guest reviews
based on 827 reviews
9.0/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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Questions of the users
About Kells Bay House And Gardens
Is breakfast included in the room rate, or is it available as an extra? If so, what does it cost?
10 November 2024
The room rates do not include breakfast, which can be added as an optional extra for €12.50 per person each morning. Vegetarian and vegan options are available upon request.
Are pets permitted in the accommodations?
22 December 2024
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed in the guest accommodations at Kells Bay House.
Can guests smoke on the premises, and if so, where is smoking allowed?
15 January 2025
Smoking is permitted on the terrace outside the Guest House but not within the indoor areas.
What is the cost of a child's breakfast?
30 October 2024
A child's breakfast can be enjoyed for €8.00.
Is there an extra fee to visit the gardens during a stay?
5 March 2025
Guests have complimentary access to the gardens during their stay with no additional fees.
What transportation options are available for guests without a car?
25 February 2025
There is a bus service available twice daily from Killarney to Kells, though it requires a 1.5-kilometer walk from the main road. Private taxi services can also be arranged for local trips.
Is on-site parking available for guests?
17 April 2025
Ample free parking is available for all guests at Kells Bay House.
Are toilets in guest rooms separate from the bathrooms?
19 February 2025
All toilets in the guest rooms are located within the bathrooms.
Are gift vouchers available for purchase?
8 May 2025
Yes, gift vouchers for stays and experiences can be purchased on the website.
How far is Kells Bay House from the nearest airport?
12 June 2025
Kerry Airport is located approximately 51 kilometers from Kells Bay House, which is about a one-hour drive.
Are the gardens open throughout the year, and is there a recommended time to visit?
21 March 2025
The gardens are open year-round, but it is best to visit during the late spring for vibrant colors and lush surroundings. In January, visitors are advised to make an appointment ahead of time.
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