"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 and Landscape
Kells Bay House and Gardens showcases a collection of rare and tender trees and shrubs from regions like Australia and New Zealand. Visitors can explore diverse habitats including the Palm & Succulent Garden and the Ladies' Walled Garden that features a canopy of tree ferns. A cliff walk offers breathtaking views of Dingle Bay and the surrounding mountains.
Dining Options
Sala Thai Restaurant presents a menu that combines the best of Thai and Irish ingredients crafted by chef-owner Penn Alexander. The café, located beside the ticket office, serves traditional teas, freshly made sandwiches, and scrumptious scones daily. An option for takeaway from Sala Thai is also available for busy visitors.
Accommodations
Kells Bay House offers a range of guest rooms, including the Alexander Room with three windows showcasing views of gardens, mountains, and the bay. Each room is named to honor previous owners, fostering a sense of history and connection. The Bell Tower suite over two floors provides a unique stay with stunning sea views.
Location and Accessibility
Situated along the Wild Atlantic Way, Kells Bay House is a key stop on the Ring of Kerry and just a short drive from Killarney. The landscape surrounding the hotel includes a pristine beach overlooking the Dingle Peninsula, making it a wonderful spot for exploration. Accessibility is available throughout the café and certain areas of the gardens.
Gardens and Plant Centre
The gardens at Kells Bay are open year-round and feature a diverse array of habitats including a primeval forest and the impressive Gunnera Pool. The Plant Centre specializes in rare and unusual plants, providing a selection for both amateur and professional gardeners. Visitors can explore options for purchasing exotic plants cultivated in the gardens.
Highlights
Location: Situated along the Wild Atlantic Way
Dining: Sala Thai Restaurant and café with homemade scones
Gardens: Collection of rare and tender trees
Suites: Unique Bell Tower suite with sea views
Plant Centre: Specializes in rare and unusual plants
“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
The hotel 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
The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
General
No smoking on site
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.
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
is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
9
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.