World's Best The 5 Best Resorts in the U.K. and Ireland The best resorts in the U.K. and Ireland, according to Travel + Leisure readers, can be found in bucolic countryside settings. By Peter Terzian Peter Terzian Peter Terzian is the features editor of Travel + Leisure, where he has been on staff since 2017. He has been an editor at Elle Decor, Culture and Travel, and Out magazines, as well as Newsday, the Long Island newspaper. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on October 14, 2022 Share Tweet Pin Email We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Book a room at a British or Irish resort hotel and you're getting more than just a place to bunk down for the night. As often as not, you're investing in a fantasy of the good life, a unique window into history, a vision of hospitality and its potential. Chances are you'll also get to hang around with one or two birds of prey. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels (including safari lodges) were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city hotel, resort, or safari lodge based on their locations and amenities. Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Red Carnation Hotel Collection Ireland once again takes the mantle, claiming four of readers' favorites. One voter described No. 4 Adare Manor as "heaven," which makes sense given its setting on 840 acres of verdant countryside. (It's also home to the Oak Room, County Limerick's first Michelin-starred restaurant.) Another voter, who called Ballyfin (No. 2) "otherworldly," may have felt transported to another era between the estate's Regency mansion and extensive grounds, which include several types of gardens. But gracious hospitality wasn't overlooked by readers either — in fact, it's what made No. 5 Dromoland Castle stand out to a third voter, who appreciated how "we were treated like beloved family." Scotland's honoree is the enduringly popular Gleneagles, set on the edge of the majestic Highlands. "It has a confident, undeniably strong sense of place," contributed one reader. "Scottish with a worldly point of view." Still, it was Ashford Castle — a storied Irish estate — that earned the highest plaudits. Read on to find out more. 1. Ashford Castle, County Mayo, Ireland Courtesy of Ashford Castle/The Red Carnation Hotel Collection The 800-year-old castle — built by an Anglo-Norman family in 1228 — draws a prestigious clientele that has included British royalty and U.S. presidents. Several readers praised the stately grounds, calling the setting "absolutely lovely" and "magnificent." One particularly enthusiastic reader looked back fondly, saying, "Just writing this makes me remember the beautifully served and delicious tea service, complete with Irish scones, mini sandwiches, and sweets enjoyed by the bay windows overlooking gorgeously manicured lawns and fountains." Score: 95.51 Book on Tripadvisor 2. Ballyfin, County Laois, Ireland Courtesy of Ballyfin Score: 95.50 Book on Tripadvisor 3. Gleneagles, Auchterarder, Scotland Courtesy of Gleneagles Score: 95.09 Book on Tripadvisor 4. Adare Manor, County Limerick, Ireland Courtesy of Adare Manor Score: 93.97 Book on Tripadvisor 5. Dromoland Castle, County Clare, Ireland Courtesy of Dromoland Castle Score: 93.70 Book on Tripadvisor Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit