2015 Award Winners GUESTHOUSE OF THE YEAR 2015

Blindgate House, Kinsale, Co Cork

What makes a great guesthouse? Well it’s different strokes for different folks but - in a popular and densely packed little holiday town - a quiet location with private parking is a pretty good start for a lot of people, and Maeve Coakley’s purpose-built guesthouse in Kinsale makes a very welcome soothing retreat from the crowds while only being a few minutes’ walk from the buzz.

Bedrooms are thoughtfully furnished with elegant modern simplicity - the work of designer Beatrice Blake, who has chosen beautiful timeless fabrics and colours for a look so understated that it doesn't feel 'decorated' at all.

Exceptionally comfortable beds and top quality bedding ensure a good night's sleep and the rooms are unusually thoughtfully planned and equipped for both leisure and business guests, with an attention to detail that makes them very relaxing.

Maeve is a quietly hospitable host - and well-known in Kinsale for her skills in the kitchen too, so breakfast here is a high priority (and may well include a ‘catch of the day’). A contrast to other places in this busy town, Blindgate House is very much itself. Quite a find.