Old Darnley Lodge Hotel

My friend and I stayed here last week. This historic lodge is beautiful and well-​maintained, and you could not ask for better people to take care of you. It is situated in the middle of the village, close to everything that you could ever want or need. The food is incredible, and even locals will tell you that it is the best dining in town; as a matter of fact, we saw many people come in being greeted on a first name basis by the staff and other customers. It is on the main street, but we slept like babies.
The whole community embraced us as their own; everyone was warm, friendly, sincere, and just completely wonderful all around. They looked out for and made us feel welcome. My friend and I felt more like we were staying with family than in a lodge.
There is nothing like hanging out in a pub with the locals; a poet who recites his own poetry, men who break out into song (they have quite lovely voices that will send shivers up and down your spine, but I digress), and the witty banter between male and female alike.
This is a true traditional Irish village; Gaelic and English are spoken. There are characters like Vincent who is just as sweet and kind as can be-​he also has some fantastic stories to tell! We met an expat there who moved to Athboy years ago and does not regret a thing, because life is so different– a bit laid back, you don’t have the urge to rush like you do here in the States, and everyone takes care of each other. One of the younger staff members, a football player (soccer here), was just an absolute joy to be around (we still owe you those drinks, Aaron!). David, one of the local politicians, is also a photographer and has a studio with his stunning artwork on display. Ollie is the proprietor of Ollie’s, a Gaeltacht bar where the local farmers like James and his cousin hang out. We had great conversation and drink there. Waxie’s has a pool table, jukebox, and caters to the younger crowd. There are other pubs, but Sadlers Well is where many of the townspeople hang out. THIS IS THE BEST PUB EVER! From the proprietor to the crowd, this is the quintessential Irish establishment.
On Halloween, we joined the torchlight procession up Tlachtga (Hill of Ward) for the Samhain festival and bonfire. The Green from which the walk begins is just down the street from the Darnley. It was quite a spiritual experience and a very ancient (and proper) way to celebrate. Definitely come for this.
If you want traditional Ireland, this village is the place to go. There is so much history, and the sites in County Meath are just unreal. My friend and I were welcomed with open arms and integrated into the community. We have made friends that we know will be in our hearts for a lifetime and it was the most phenomenal experience that we have ever had abroad (or in the States, for that matter). A word of advice: please be respectful of everybody there. If you are planning to go into Athboy and be a ticky-​tacky tourist, don’t; hit Dublin instead. There is a bus that will pick you up directly in front of the lodge and take you to the city centre. This community has heart and a spirit that goes as deep as the bottom of the sea. If you want to experience genuine Irish culture, come on over and truly enjoy every single bit of it as we did. Take your time to get to know everyone and enjoy the unconditional warmth and hospitality that the locals have to offer.
Aaron, Jim, Damon, Craig, Mary, and the rest of the Darnley staff are amazing. We wouldn’t dream of staying anywhere else, and will be returning next year to enjoy more of the good life

Seen as this hotel had apparently been closed for refurbishment not long ago, I really couldn’t see a quality finish unfortunately!
The front of the hotel along with the bar/​restaurant and front desk area were very clean and looked good. However when we got to our rooms we were rather disappointed! Bathroom tiles (walls and floors) were chipped, lights didn’t work, towel rack fell off wall when I went to pick up towel! The walls were also paper thin and I could hear our neighbours most of the evening and into the night. For the money you pay for a room, I have experienced alot better for less money!
We had also requested a cot in our room, which was ready when we arrived and had clean blankets in — so a positive there.
Despite the room, the staff were faultless. They were extremely friendly and helpful and couldn’t do enough to make sure your stay was a good one.
The full Irish breakfast was very nice, and they also offered a vegetarian option.
I personally wouldn’t choose/​recommend this hotel as my first option, purely due to the poor quality of rooms and cleanliness — in comparison with value for money.

I stayed here recently and was impressed by the excellent value for money. Very clean room, friendly staff and beautiful bar food. Breakfast was cooked to perfection.