We sent one of our team, Linda Higgins, to investigate the The Chancery Hotel in Dublin as potential destination for out of town tech visitors to the capital city.

Right in the heart of historic Dublin, a stone's throw from both Dublin Castle and Christchurch cathedral, the Chancery Hotel offers a visitor a well-placed location to navigate and explore the streets of Dublin by foot. A welcoming, bright, and compact foyer holds the reception, coffee dock, bar, and the Fawn restaurant. An attentive staff moved through check-in and check-out quickly and seamlessly.

The Chancery Hotel reviewed

The lifts are door-key activated and give that extra sense of security and privacy. The twin room was compact, well-appointed, and furnished in a modern but warm style of decor. All lights and curtains are touch-button operated as was the pocket door for the bathroom. The room was very clean with nice touches like a steamer for clothes, along with all other standard amenities. The beds were comfortable however for anyone with mobility issues, the height of the beds could be disconcerting. While one likes to be treated like a princess, climbing up and into the bed, "princess and the pea-style" could be a little daunting for those shorter of stature or creaky of hips. The room was quiet and sleep was good.

For those who are here for work, there is a perfectly proportioned desk with lamp, phone, and comfortable desk in chair in the room. Nice natural light coming in too. USB sockets were ample (by the desk and beds) and the WiFi speed was fast and reliable. A perfect place to get some work done. The small bar area below would also provide a change of scenery, as would the many convenient options around the city. The toiletries in the bathroom were generously sized and of a very high quality. The forest green-piped bathrobes and slippers were perfect for accessing the wellness spa and treatment rooms.

The spa and gym are small and functional but well looked after and nicely designed. A small sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and ice fountain proved to be a good start to the day. The supply of drinking water and slippers were welcome touches and the sustainability aspects were clearly noted without being overt. The gym is perfect for a quick workout and in a city built for walking is all you would need.

The treatment rooms could benefit from more subdued lighting to create a more relaxed environment when receiving a treatment. The therapist was very proficient but a more personalised massage would have heightened the experience. The option of some gentle music would have been welcomed.

Dinner in the Fawn restaurant was superb. Beautiful service from the staff which was attentive and welcoming. The food was presented in an attractive and moreish manner. Lots of umami flavour that meant each mouthful was a feast for the senses. Portions were generous and each element on the plate was well thought out. The service between courses was never rushed but was well-timed. The decor of the restaurant is modern with a warm Scandinavian energy.

The self-service breakfast was also in the Fawn restaurant. Again, the staff are very aware of the ebb and flow of a staggered breakfast sitting and moved seamlessly between guests ensuring that tea and coffee were served when requested. There was a wide and excellent mix of standard and continental breakfast options available. There was no sense of urgency from staff as people milled and took their time before embarking on the day.

Overall, an excellent experience. A safe, secure, convenient location with attentive staff (from housekeeping to front of house). Well worth a stay when visiting Dublin. One caveat is that in the room brochure information it would have been good to have known more about the beehive, mushroom kingdom and the rooftop garden as well, as they sounded like interesting and cutting edge features, especially for a hotel with such a commitment to sustainability.

More about the Chancery Hotel

The Chan...