FAQs

Question

Important tips for what to pack!

Answer

Clothing: Ireland can be cool in the morning & evenings, even in the summertime. AND it can be warm during the day! It's very unpredictable this time of year! Be sure to pack clothing that could be layered like a sweater jacket or a Shawl/Pashmina . Comfortable shoes/clothing for exploring the castle grounds or daytime activities. ***When dining in the Main Dining Room (George V Room) at Ashford Castle, a Jacket and tie are required for men. Also, NO denim or trainers in The Main Dining Room. Other restaurants at Ashford Castle have a more relaxed dress code. Electrical Plug Adapter (aka “converter.”) If this is your first time going to Ireland (or Europe) you may not be aware that they use totally different electrical outlets than we do in America. In Ireland they use the “UK plug” You can find these UK plug converters on-line at amazon.com. LADIES--your hair tool will run a lot hotter when using them with the converter, just be cautious of heat levels.

Question

Do I need a visa to visit Ireland? IMPORTANT!!!

Answer

If you are flying directly to Dublin, (with no touchdown/connection in any other country) you do not need a visa to visit Ireland. (as of Oct 2025) If you traveling through the UK, you will be required to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - this applies to traveling through England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland. !!!!ETA is needed even if you are just touching down in the UK with a connecting flight going on to Ireland!! PLEASE be sure to fill this out PRIOR to your departure from Home. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

Question

How will I get to Ashford Castle from the airport?

Answer

Ashford Castle is in the wonderful and remote village of Cong in Mayo. The easiest way to get there is to hire a car. Airport car hire: Hertz, Avis, Europcar are just a few of the car hire companies in Dublin and Shannon Airport Want to grab a taxi? Free Now: works the same as Uber in Ireland but all drivers are also Taxi plate holders. Make sure to download the App before you go https://www.free-now.com/ie/ Want to hire a driver? We recommend Devines (https://www.devinescs.com/) or Dublin Chauffeur Company (https://www.dublincs.com/) From Shannon we recommend By Appointment (https://www.byappointmentdmc.com/)

Question

What should I do while I am in Ireland?

Answer

These links offer wonderful general information on Ireland. Please feel free to check them out & learn all that this beautiful country has to offer. Discover Ireland - https://www.discoverireland.ie/ Failte Ireland - https://www.failteireland.ie/ Visit Dublin - https://www.visitdublin.com/ Lovin Dublin - https://lovindublin.com/ Wild Atlantic Way - www.thewildatlanticway.com - 2,500 km of coastal roads & stunning scenery. Well-marked & very scenic, it's dotted with breathtaking viewpoints, quaint villages & delicious food.