In the spring and summer, a riot of colour bursts from the gardens and flowerbeds surrounding this rambling riverside coaching inn, said to be the longest-running in Ireland. Owned by the same family for 200 years, the characterful building is today under the stewardship of brothers Richard and Tom Gelletlie. Spacious bedrooms, many overlooking the gardens, have old-world charm in their chintz and creaking floorboards, well-chosen antiques and prints. Traditional Irish dishes are served on crisp tablecloths in the dining room; Sunday luncheon is a feast. Sit outside on a sunny day: you’re on the banks of the River Vartry, a delightful spot for a picnic or an alfresco G&T. 2 km SE of Ashford.