Right on the beach in Dunmore East, and with sea views out towards the Hook Lighthouse, The Strand goes back to 1750 but today it is the first choice for many discerning locals when it comes to seafood - and, increasingly, for discerning foodies on holidays and short breaks.
Now run by Clifden and Louise Foyle together with their mother, Edwina, visits by John and Francis "At Your Service" Brennan inspired improvements in several areas of the business some time go, including the rooms.
The bar, which was always the heart of the inn, includes a number of areas with appeal to customers of varying ages and interests and is attractively designed to a nautical theme, with a sunny terrace for fine days.
Food is served in the bar - where specialities include dishes like dressed crab, homemade chowder and mussels in black bean sauce to beef tagliatelle - and also in The Strand Seafood Restaurant where 'Fish, fish, fish' is how they describe their menu.
And so it is - up to a point: specialities such as hake dijonnaise, black sole on the bone and devilled crab have regular fans but non seafood eaters will find that there are some concessions, including specialities such as great steaks, crispy roast half duck, and some vegetarian options too.
But it is mainly for the seafood that people head for the Strand - and it couldn't be fresher as much of it comes from the nearby harbour, which is one of Ireland's main fishing ports.
Nearby, the Foyles also own a 9-room guesthouse,The Strand Townhouse, and Artform, a contemporary art school where studio based and outdoor art courses are held, and they have a newer Dublin restaurant, The Dunmore, in Dublin 6.
