Groups
Groups
If you are gathering with friends or family, a group booking at Roundwood is a great way to come together and enjoy each other’s company while still sharing the house with other guests. Groups of up to eight are welcome alongside other guests, with everyone sharing the drawing room and dining room in the easy, informal way that Roundwood tends to encourage. For groups who would prefer a more private setting for dinner, a private dining room is available on request. For larger groups of twelve or more, taking the house on an exclusive basis usually works better for everyone, and we are always happy to talk through the options.
The Main House has six bedrooms, with a further four in the Yellow House just behind it, reached through a small herb garden. Smaller groups are accommodated alongside other guests staying in the house, while larger groups generally take Roundwood on a private or exclusive basis. We are happy to discuss the best arrangement depending on numbers.
Just an hour from Dublin, at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in Co. Laois, Roundwood suits walking weekends, book clubs, small retreats and groups of friends looking for somewhere relaxed and atmospheric to spend time together.
Dining
After a day exploring the Slieve Blooms or relaxing in the grounds, guests are invited to gather for pre-dinner drinks in the drawing room before Paddy calls them through for dinner with the gong.
Groups can also request the use of Frank’s Library for pre-dinner drinks, a lovely spot to settle in before moving through to dinner.
Paddy cooks a four-course set menu each night, served by candlelight in the dining room with the fire lit for much of the year.
Dinner tends to be long and relaxed, with plenty of time between courses and conversation carrying on late into the evening.
Menus change according to the season and what is particularly good at the time, from meat from our local butcher and local cheeses and trout to herbs, fruit and eggs from Roundwood itself.
We are always happy to accommodate dietary requirements and discuss menus ahead of your visit.
Activities for Groups
There is plenty to keep a group busy at Roundwood, or very little if that is more the idea.
The grounds lend themselves to an easy afternoon, with the Perimeter Walk and quiet corners to read in. Croquet and boules are there for anyone who wants them, and foraging with Wild Food Mary can be arranged for groups who would like something a bit different.
For those who want to get further afield, the Slieve Bloom Mountains are on the doorstep, with walking trails, mountain biking and horse riding all within easy reach.
And when the day is done, the drawing room fire, good couches and armchairs have a way of keeping everyone happily in one place.
Gallery
Stay
Roundwood House is a place to settle in, spend time together, and enjoy accommodation in a house that is still lived in and used as it was meant to be.
Dining
Dinner at Roundwood House centres on seasonal, thoughtful cooking using ingredients sourced as locally as possible.
Gift Vouchers
Roundwood House gift vouchers can be used towards a stay and/or dinner. They suit birthdays, anniversaries or simply giving someone time away.
Testimonials
“Roundwood House in County Laois is one of Ireland’s finest mid-size houses of the Georgian period…”
Maurice Craig
Classic Irish Houses of the Middle Size, 1976
“From the minute we turned into the driveway, we were in raptures, as the house is filled with character, style and history. You have to eat dinner here; please don’t even think about going anywhere else! And breakfast couldn’t be better. Hannah was a wonderful host.”
Joanne W.
“Hannah and Paddy are wonderful hosts who go out of their way to make you feel at home… The food is divine… Paddy is not only an amazing cook but a talented musician too.”
Richard & Fiona, Killiney, Dublin
“We stayed in Writers Cottage. Pictures do not do this little Cottage justice… This hidden gem in the woods is packed with atmosphere & character… I highly recommend this accommodation”.
Tim T.
“A group of 12 enjoyed a perfect overnight stay here with ducks, hens and dogs in the grounds to greet us… Hannah was a perfect host, warm, welcoming, available but never intrusive. Paddy the chef produces the best meal I ever tasted.”
Margaret T.
“We found the house magical and the hospitality extended to us above and beyond. We had the 4 course dinner prepared by Paddy both nights of our stay and it was phenomenal.”
Toby M.
“Hannah and all the staff offered a masterclass in hospitality at its best. A gracious host, everything was managed exactly as you’d want it to be. The food was spectacular. The house and library are so charming.”
Alice Simington
Enquiries
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