Farnham Estate: a place to switch off and remember rest, just 90 minutes from Dublin

My husband and I are always looking for new places to stay in Ireland, somewhere a short drive from Dublin, that means we can disappear for 24 hours guilt-free while generous grandparents step in to care for our kids to allow us a much-needed break as a couple. We had heard of Farnham Estate before but had never visited, so when we pulled up the long driveway to the house, just as the sun was coming out, we knew we were in for a treat.

Farnham Estate is one of those beautiful old country manors that has been tastefully added to with a modern extension and no expense spared. On arrival, we were led straight to the drawing room for an indulgent afternoon tea and a glass of champagne. With views over rolling acreage, we immediately settled into the plush chairs with smug smiles and clinked glasses. With an expansive afternoon and evening ahead all to ourselves, we sank into the kind of contented state that only comes when you know the next few hours are entirely your own. Bliss!

After tea, we checked into our room, which combined the charm of the old house with the understated luxury and modern conveniences of the new wing. With soft neutral tones, a generous super king bed and his and hers plush robes, it set the mood for complete relaxation. It was the kind of room that immediately invites you to put your phone on silent and breathe a little slower.

Next, we headed to the award-winning spa, just a short stroll away through a long glass corridor. This is truly the jewel in the crown of Farnham. Spread over several levels, it offers a thermal suite, an indoor–outdoor infinity pool, and countless quiet corners for those who prefer to simply lounge with a book. We spent most of the afternoon drifting between the salt room and sauna, before braving the outdoor pool – where we were caught in a hail storm – making for a more invigorating experience!

No visit to this spa would be complete, though, without trying their new signature Head to Soul Harmony treatment from science-backed skincare brand [ comfort zone ]. My 90 minute treatment began with a welcome shot of Vital Defence Juice, which I was told would aid my digestion, reduce inflammation and support my skin health, before a cleansing foot ritual where my feet were soaked in softening oil and gently scrubbed. Talk about pampering. Next, my expert therapist melted away any tension I had with a back, neck and scalp massage before administering a custom facial tailored to my skin’s unique needs. While my face mask’s active ingredients took effect, my hands and arms were massaged with a hand cream infused with what I later learned was precious Sacha Inchi oil, leaving them deeply nourished, hydrated, and delicately scented. To finish, your feet receive a final treat with a reviving shiatsu massage. Heaven!

Later, I floated to dinner on my newly revitalised feet, but not before visiting the Music Room for the most incredible tailor-made cocktails. The resident barman is brimming with passion for his craft and after speaking to us about our mood and taste preferences, he created a custom and expertly shaken cocktail for each of us; a dark and stormy with a twist for my husband and a mint espresso martini for me. Next, we headed to Cedar’s Steakhouse, the fancier of the hotel’s two restaurants, where we couldn’t resist ordering the chateaubriand steak for two, with all the trimmings and the most more-ish mac and cheese and triple-cooked fries as sides. The service struck that perfect balance between attentive and relaxed – genuine hospitality at its finest.

After dinner, we wandered back to the old house and lingered by the fire with a nightcap, listening to the faint murmur of conversation from other guests and the hum of live music from the lively bar in the basement, tempting but not as much as a full uninterrupted night’s sleep.

The next morning, after a leisurely breakfast overlooking the gardens, we reluctantly packed up to head home. Just 90 minutes from Dublin, Farnham Estate feels like a world away – a place to switch off, reconnect, and remember what rest really feels like.

The new signature Head to Soul Harmony treatment costs €180 and includes use of the expansive 44,000 sq ft Health Spa. To discover [ comfort zone ] at Farnham Estate Spa & Golf Resort, visit farnhamestate.ie. To book, call + 353 (0) 49 4377700 or email healthspa@farnhamestate.ie.