Butler Arms Hotel

We had the bad (good?) luck of visiting the Butler Arms on a cold, windy, rainy day in July. Not the weather anyone was hoping for. However, we were able to check in to the Butler Arms and then stay safe and warm out of the weather until check out the next morning. We purchased a great dinner, warmed up in our room, and then enjoyed a lovely breakfast, which was included in our stay. All without having to go outside. Had there been better weather, we would have had a decent enough view even from the first floor. The hotel was a little musty, but that’s expected, being so close to the ocean. The ocean breeze would have remedied that if we could have kept the windows open. Our radiator had been turned off for the summer, but we were able to get it up and running quickly to warm up our room. Some of the furnishings are ready to be replaced or repaired, but everything was still cozy. Parking is in a private car park behind the hotel - could be a bit tight, but it was just fine for us. All in all, a comfortable stay!

Oh gosh - where to start - I was so, so looking forward to our stay at the Butlers Arms in Waterville - we pushed the boat out and booked the most expensive room and opted for the Dine at Charlie’s option - paying just shy of 400 euro for the night. This was to be the highlight of our trip to Ireland. Check-in fine - asked about dinner, whether we needed to book a time - told it was fine, turn up when ready, as it wasn’t busy. We arrived for dinner at 8 pm and were the only guests. A table of 4 arrived shortly after. That appeared to be it for the night. Staff seemed unaware of the package we were on (3 course set menu) we were incredibly disappointed with the menu we were initially given as it appeared to be a coach party 2 course set menu. This was not what we had expected. We asked if it was possible to choose from the proper menu and pay the difference. Eventually we were told to “just choose what we wanted.” This caused me huge anxiety, as we were made to feel like we were difficult customers - to the point where I became quite tearful. Whilst the food was good - the evening had been spoilt as a result of poor customer service. We were largely ignored by the staff - save for standard satisfaction checks and collecting plates. The room - whilst very large and the bed was comfortable the curtains were thin and cream - there was a bright street light right outside the window and it was on all night - shining through so the room was light all night. In addition the fan on the bathroom did not switch off at all - thus we both had a really poor night. Breakfast was ok - no decaf tea - box apparently empty! The hotel was bought a year ago we understand. It is clearly struggling to get guests. Staff appeared to be largely inexperienced. The issues I see it - having worked extensively in hospitality, relate to poor management - lack of proper communication and investment in training. The location is fabulous and rooms/building a little tired in places. The location and hotel has massive potential. The lounges and bar areas look amazing - but were just empty when we stayed in April. I desperately hope with a good manager the place can turn around. Sadly we left very disappointed and a feeling have being ripped off. Therefore cannot recommend.

Staff is super friendly and the hotel is a lot bigger than I thought it would be. Rooms were a little older, but very clean. Location is perfect for dining (on-site is great as well), walking the boardwalk and only two minutes from the golf course. Would stay here again.

We arrived late on Friday evening after a long journey from Laois to Waterville greeted with lovely warm welcome. We stayed until Monday and have to say the staff were fantastic the rooms spacious children welcome and food excellent. The views and walks were fabulous and steeped in GAA history. Can’t wait to go back !!

We really enjoyed our stay at the Butler Arms Hotel, the room was modern and up to date and very comfortable, the view from the bedroom window was fantastic. Breakfast was very good and cooked freshly. We also enjoyed a lovely evening meal at the Fisherman's Restaurant. Staff at the hotel were friendly and made us feel very welcome.

The Butler arms hotel was an excellent stay! The parking in the back was easy and conveinant. The location next to the beach was beautiful. Our room was spacious with one of the most luxurious carpets I've ever walked on! it also had floor to ceiling windows that opened up onto a very large gorgeous balcony overlooking the ocean. Every inch of the common spaces oozed character and charm. The food was really good especially the Sole. The price seemed like a bargain and I would very much like to spend a few more days there sometime.

While the food was good, the service was the worst I have ever experienced. I had to get up from the table at least 5 times to get the attention of waiters. The forgot meals, brought incorrect items and were not nice to deal with. I wrote two emails after the experience and did not receive a response. Very poor customer service for what was an amazing spot.

We had a fabulous room (lots of space) with a fantastic view of Ballinskellings Bay. Lots of luxury touches in the room. Our dinner (and breakfast) were excellent. NO question this is an outstanding lodging.

We stayed for one night while walking the Kerry Way booked through Macs Adventures. We arrived late after a long, arduous stage arriving at 6.30 pm, tired and hungry. The receptionist was very friendly and helpful, the room was magnificent with sea views and with everything we needed to make us comfortable. The evening meal and breakfast was also excellent. Our only regret was that we didn't take a rest day and stay for another night. This is one of the nicest hotels we have stayed at in a long time and this was my sixth trek this year in addition to other holidays! Well done!