Overview
Nestled on Pearse Street in the centre of Mullingar, the Greville Arms Hotel is a living piece of Irish history that has been welcoming travellers for over two centuries. After a recent refurbishment the hotel now offers 38 en‑suite bedrooms, a range of dining venues, a small museum and a lively, award‑winning pub that pays homage to James Joyce. Whether you are in town for business, a romantic break, a family holiday or a special celebration, the Greville Arms blends historic charm with modern comfort.
History
The building that houses the hotel dates back to the 18th century, originally operating as Wilton’s Hotel before becoming Murray’s Hotel in 1826. In 1858 the property was purchased by Fulke Greville‑Nugent, 1st Baron Greville, who commissioned architect William Caldbeck to rebuild the façade. The present structure, completed in the late 1860s, reflects Caldbeck’s Victorian style and still retains many original interior details, such as period wood paneling and antique furnishings.
The hotel’s literary fame stems from its frequent mention in James Joyce’s Ulysses. Joyce stayed in Mullingar with his father in the early 1900s, and the hotel later commemorated the connection with a dedicated Ulysses Pub and a life‑size wax figure of the author, unveiled on Joyce’s centenary. The Greville family retained ownership until the late 20th century; today the hotel is run by the Maye family, who have kept the historic atmosphere alive while adding contemporary amenities.
What to See & Do
Museum
Opened to the public in March 2012, the on‑site museum houses a fascinating collection that includes:
- A Penitent Magdalene sculpture in the style of Antonio Canova, rescued from Kenure House.
- A Stone Age axe dating back more than 4,000 years.
- An original copy of Ulysses and a portrait of Robert Rochfort (1655).
- Items belonging to explorer Charles Howard‑Bury, such as two ibex heads and a bear skull.
The museum is free to explore and offers a unique glimpse into local archaeology, art and the personal histories of the Greville family.
Dining & Pub
- James Joyce Restaurant – À la carte and set lunch menus featuring locally sourced Irish produce, an extensive wine list and a traditional afternoon tea.
- Ulysses Pub – An award‑winning tavern with a life‑size wax Joyce on the upper floor. Bar food is served from 17:30 until late and live music fills the room on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
- Carvery – Open daily from 07:30 to 18:00, offering a hearty selection of roasted meats and seasonal sides.
- Bistro – Available for private events, weddings and conferences, offering a more casual dining experience.
Rooms & Suites
All 38 rooms are en‑suite and equipped with complimentary Wi‑Fi, plush bedding and flat‑screen TVs. The accommodation categories include:
| Category | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Standard Room | Queen‑size bed, modern bathroom, tea/coffee making facilities |
| Executive Room | Larger floor‑plan, upgraded linens, optional city view |
| Suite | Separate sitting area, premium amenities, ideal for longer stays |
Exploring Mullingar
The hotel’s central location makes it an ideal launchpad for the town’s attractions:
- Belvedere House & Gardens – A Georgian estate with formal gardens, just a short walk away.
- Lough Ennell – Popular for fishing, kayaking and scenic walks.
- Cathedral of Christ the King – Impressive neo‑Gothic architecture in the heart of town.
- Abbey Blooms Botanical Gardens – A tranquil 10‑acre garden showcasing native flora.
- Hill of Uisneach – The mythic “centre of Ireland” a short drive from Mullingar, offering panoramic views and ancient monuments.
- Locke’s Distillery – A boutique whiskey experience.
- Golf – Several championship courses lie within a few kilometres of the town centre.
Events & Celebrations
- Bloomsday (June 16) – The hotel organises special literary events, including readings from Ulysses, themed menus in the James Joyce Restaurant and a special toast in the Ulysses Pub. Early booking is advisable as rooms fill quickly.
- Live Music Nights – The Ulysses Pub hosts live sessions on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, ranging from traditional Irish tunes to contemporary acoustic sets.
- Seasonal Afternoon Tea – Served in the James Joyce Restaurant, featuring locally sourced scones, clotted cream and seasonal jam.
Weddings & Conferences
The Greville Arms is a popular venue for weddings, civil ceremonies and corporate functions. A dedicated wedding coordinator assists couples from the initial enquiry through to the big day, handling everything from catering to décor. The hotel offers:
- Elegant banquet rooms and a grand ballroom for up to 150 guests.
- State‑of‑the‑art AV equipment for conferences and presentations.
- Customisable menus drawing on the James Joyce Restaurant’s culinary expertise.
- Complimentary Wi‑Fi throughout the function spaces.
Practical Information
- Parking – On‑site parking is available for guests (subject to availability). No charge for hotel guests.
- Accessibility – Ground‑floor rooms are wheelchair‑friendly and a lift provides access to the upper floors. The restaurant and pub are fully accessible.
- Wi‑Fi – Free high‑speed Wi‑Fi throughout the hotel and public areas.
- Check‑in / Check‑out – Standard check‑in from 15:00, check‑out by 11:00.
- Contact – Reception: +353 44 93 48563 | Email: info@grevillearmshotel.ie
- Address – Greville Arms Hotel, Pearse Street, Mullingar, Co Westmeath, Ireland.
- Website – grevillearmshotel.ie
- Nearby transport – Mullingar railway station is a 10‑minute walk away, offering connections to Dublin, Galway and other major towns. Regular bus services stop on the main street outside the hotel.
- Opening hours (selected venues):
- Ulysses Pub – 17:30 to late (live music Tue, Fri, Sat).
- Carvery – 07:30 to 18:00 daily.
- Museum – Open daily during hotel operating hours; admission is free.
Discover the timeless elegance of the Greville Arms Hotel – where every stay is a step back into Ireland’s rich cultural tapestry.