Overview
Newrath Inn, known to many travellers as Hunter’s Hotel, sits gracefully on Newrath Bridge in the village of Rathnew, County Wicklow. Just a 45‑minute drive from Dublin City, the inn is set on two acres of award‑winning gardens that spill down to the tranquil banks of the River Vartry. The property blends the elegance of a bygone era with the comforts of modern hospitality, making it an ideal base for visitors who want to experience the charm of Ireland’s ancient east while enjoying a peaceful riverside retreat.
The inn offers sixteen individually decorated bedrooms, each with a private bathroom, television and direct‑dial telephone. Many rooms open onto garden views, allowing guests to wake to the scent of roses and the gentle murmur of the river. Inside, creaking floorboards, polished wooden floors, historic prints and antique sofas evoke the atmosphere of a classic coaching inn, while the attentive family‑run service ensures a warm, personal welcome.
History
Founded in 1825, Newrath Inn is one of the oldest surviving coaching inns in Ireland. The same family has tended the property since the early 1820s, preserving its historic character while subtly updating its facilities. The inn’s strategic location on the old Dublin‑Wicklow turnpike meant it welcomed a steady stream of travellers, mail coaches and, eventually, distinguished guests. Among those to have stayed here were the King and Queen of Sweden, a testament to the inn’s reputation for hospitality and elegance.
The building itself retains many original features: the timber‑framed doors, the stone hearths, and the period furnishings that have been carefully restored. Over the years, the surrounding gardens have been cultivated into a horticultural showcase, earning awards for their design and plant collections. The River Vartry, which flows just beyond the garden walls, adds a natural soundtrack to the inn’s historic setting.
Awards and Recognition
- Atmospheric Establishment of the Year 2008 – awarded by Georgina Campbell’s Guide for the inn’s historic ambience.
- Top 10 Most Beautiful Hotels in Ireland – recognised by national travel publications.
- Prize‑winning garden – the garden has been celebrated for its spectacular displays of oriental poppies in May‑June and a diverse palette of perennials, including magnolias, rhododendrons, liriodendron, nothofagus, eucryphia, podocarpus, abutilon, Fremontodendron, ginkgo and paulownia.
What to See & Do
Gardens and River Walks
The two‑acre gardens are a highlight for any visitor. Seasonal flower beds burst with colour, while mature trees provide shade and a sense of timelessness. In spring, roses and daffodils dominate, and in early summer the garden is famed for its mass planting of oriental poppies. A large kitchen garden supplies fresh fruit and vegetables for the inn’s restaurant. Guests can wander along gravel paths that lead to the riverbank, where a small footbridge offers picturesque photo opportunities. The gardens are especially enchanting in spring, when roses and daffodils are at their peak.
Dining Experiences
The on‑site restaurant serves a three‑course menu for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, showcasing locally sourced produce. Seasonal dishes often feature Wicklow lamb, fresh fish from the nearby coast, and produce from the inn’s own garden. Afternoon tea is a particular favourite, with a selection of homemade scones, clotted cream and jam, accompanied by a choice of fine Irish teas.
Events & Facilities
Hunter’s Hotel offers a small conference room suitable for intimate meetings, workshops or corporate retreats, accommodating up to 30 guests. The venue can be booked for private functions, weddings or team‑building days, with bespoke catering drawn from the kitchen garden and local suppliers. For groups interested in using the space, the inn asks visitors to contact them directly for delegate rates and availability.
Exploring County Wicklow
From Newrath Inn, the “Garden of Ireland” is within easy reach. Historic houses such as Avondale Forest Park, the former home of Charles Stewart Parker, and the grand Kilcoole House are short drives away. Outdoor enthusiasts can head to the Wicklow Mountains for hill walking, or to the nearby golf courses at Druids Glen and Wicklow Golf Club. Horse‑riding trails and bird‑watching spots line the River Vartry, offering a variety of activities for families and solo travellers alike.
Nearby attractions
- Brittas Bay – A sandy stretch on the Irish Sea, perfect for a beach walk or a picnic after a day of exploring the gardens. (Brittas Bay)
- Powerscourt Waterfall – Ireland’s highest waterfall, a short 20‑minute drive from the inn, provides dramatic scenery and walking trails.
- Russborough House – Set in the Blessington lakes area, this historic mansion offers guided tours and beautiful parkland.
Cultural Highlights
Rathnew itself hosts a modest selection of shops, pubs and a weekly market, giving visitors a taste of authentic Irish village life. The nearby town of Wicklow offers museums, art galleries and the historic Wicklow Gaol, providing deeper insight into the region’s past.
Practical Information
Newrath Inn operates year‑round, welcoming guests for both accommodation and meals. While specific opening hours for the restaurant are not listed in the source material, the inn typically serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, with special menus for holidays such as Easter. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons and for special events, as the inn’s sixteen rooms fill quickly.
Contact & Booking
- Phone: +353 (0)404 40106
- Website: hunters.ie
- Map: Google Maps location
Accessibility information is not detailed in the source material, so guests requiring specific accommodations should contact the inn directly.
Getting There
From Dublin, the most straightforward route is via the M50 and N11, a drive of roughly 45 minutes. Public transport options include a regular bus service to Rathnew, followed by a short walk to the inn. Taxis and ride‑share services are also readily available in Dublin and can be arranged for a direct transfer.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring brings the gardens into full bloom, making it an ideal time for a leisurely stroll or an outdoor tea. Autumn colours transform the surrounding countryside, providing a stunning backdrop for hill walks. Winter visitors can enjoy cosy evenings by the fireplace, complemented by hearty Irish fare.
In summary, Newrath Inn offers a rare blend of historic ambience, award‑winning gardens, and modern comforts. Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a family base for exploring Wicklow’s natural beauty, or simply a taste of Ireland’s coaching‑inn heritage, the inn provides a memorable and authentic experience.