Abrae Court Guesthouse

Abrae Court Guesthouse is suitable for people doing business in the area, as well as tourists seeking an affordable stay who don't mind commuting into Dublin. The 19th-century brick townhouse has a car park in its pea-stone front garden and granite steps leading to its front door. Interiors are quaint and grandmotherly, if dated. The drawing room has several patterned, pastel-hued sofas, bookshelves piled with books, and large windows framed by heavy floor-length drapes. A gilded mirror hangs above a marble fireplace. The dimly lit breakfast room has a similar look, with striped yellow wallpaper, framed paintings in cheap frames, and several tables topped with white cloths. Overall, the property feels dated and furnishings are tired, while the array of patterns and fabrics feel dowdy. There is a worn, relentless maroon carpet flecked with gold stars that needs replacement and the fake flowers are dusty. It's a homey guesthouse, but it's in need of updates.  

Abrae Court Guesthouse is located in the suburb of Rathgar, and there's a bus stop right by the property that gives access to central Dublin in about a half-hour (or 20 to 30 minutes by car). It is a five-minute walk to the center of Rathgar, where guests will find shops, restaurants, and a market. Attractions like St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle, and the Temple Bar area can be reached in about 20 minutes by bus, while the Guinness Storehouse and the National Library of Ireland are around 40 minutes by public transportation (all of these sites can be reached in 15 to 20 minutes by car). The Dublin Zoo can be reached in about an hour by bus, or around 20 to 30 minutes by car. Dublin Airport is a 35-minute car ride or about an hour on public transportation.

Interiors of the Abrae Court Guesthouse are heavy on patterned fabrics, wallpaper, and carpets, which might seem fussy and dated to some, but homey and nostalgic to others. The rooms are small; walking sideways is sometimes necessary to navigate the space between the foot of the bed and the radiator. Green or crimson patterned carpets are somewhat worn, as are the striped or floral bedspreads and patterned curtains. The furnishings include large, dark wood armoires, nightstands, and desks, as well as armchairs in some rooms. The overall effect reads a bit grandmotherly and could use an update. Amenities include small, wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, coffee- and tea-making facilities, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are small and tiled in white, with traditional porcelain fittings and tiny glass shower cubicles. Hairdryers and toiletries are included. 

The hotel offers few amenities aside from free Wi-Fi throughout the property and free coffee and tea in the breakfast room. There's a full breakfast, including cooked-to-order eggs and bacon, fresh fruit, yogurt, and cereals, that's available for a fee. There is secure parking for a fee in the back garden and free parking in the yard in front of the hotel. The back garden has a small, grassy area with tables and chairs. Pets are not allowed. One important note: The property accepts only cash and no credit cards.