Racecourse View leads with a perfect 9.8 cleanliness score and Noreen’s legendary local advice. For a historic stay on the Square, The Listowel Arms Hotel delivers 9.4 staff scores and landmark views. Both prove why Listowel hospitality is tough to beat.
Listowel’s market-town charm meets serious Kerry hospitality — and these stays prove it’s more than just a stopover.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 16 properties and 3,800+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+ across Listowel and its surrounding Kerry coast.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Cleanest stays: #1 Racecourse View→ Rates
#13 Teach de Broc→ Rates - Best for golf trips: #5 The 19th Golf Lodge→ Rates
- Pools & relaxation: #12 Winterwood→ Rates
#5 The 19th Golf Lodge→ Rates - Best location in Listowel: #7 The Listowel Arms Hotel→ Rates
- Self-catering with sea views: #14 Luxury Cottage→ Rates
#6 McGrath’s Bar & Accommodation→ Rates - Cyclist-friendly: #16 Bikes Beers B&B→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Racecourse View | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Cashen Course House V31 RR40 | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Geoghegans Magpie Bar and B&B | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 4. The Lanterns Hotel | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 5. The 19th Golf Lodge | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 6. McGrath’s Bar & Accommodation Causeway | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 7. The Listowel Arms Hotel | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Leens Hotel | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 9. The Cliff House Hotel | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 10. The Tides Ballybunion | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Kilcooly’s Country House Hotel | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Winterwood | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Teach de Broc | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Luxury Cottage, sea views | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Siochain House | (30+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Bikes Beers Bed and Breakfast | (20+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Hotels in Listowel, Kerry
1. Racecourse View
The Vibe
This guesthouse is spotless — the 9.8 cleanliness score is the highest on this list. Owner Noreen is known for her local knowledge, and guests consistently mention her willingness to advise on places to visit (and which to skip). You’re right on Convent Street, minutes from Listowel’s main attractions.
What You Actually Get
Each room comes with a tea/coffee maker, and the breakfast gets glowing mentions — it’s included in the rate. Free parking is available outside the accommodation and across the street. Note that children are not allowed here, so it’s an adult-focused stay. The Wi-Fi scores a solid 9.3, and the property can help with restaurant reservations.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is non-negotiable — this scores 9.8, the highest in this entire guide.
2. Cashen Course House V31 RR40
The Vibe
Right on the golf links in Ballybunion, this guesthouse knows the early-morning tee-time crowd. Guests rave about the hospitality — hosts prepared a full early breakfast before a group’s tee time. The rooms are comfortable (9.3 comfort score) and there’s free parking on-site.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have tea/coffee making facilities, and the wonderful breakfast is included. Family rooms are available — children 12 and above are charged as adults. The property is wheelchair-accessible. Closest evening dining: Strollers Bistro and Ballybunion Golf Club, both within a five-minute walk. No shuttle to the beach, so bring your own car or take a taxi.
Choose this if: You’re playing the Cashen Course — it’s the closest accommodation to the first tee.
3. Geoghegans Magpie Bar and B&B
The Vibe
A pub B&B with serious character — the rooms sit above a family-run bar that’s been in operation since the mid-1800s. Don’t expect the Ritz, as one guest put it, but the staff score of 9.1 and Wi-Fi of 9.9 make it functional. The sea view from the property is a bonus.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is available on-site, and the Wi-Fi clocks in at 48 Mbps — fast enough for streaming. Breakfast is available (Full English/Irish or breakfast-to-go) but not included in the rate. The property has a garden and a terrace, plus a bar downstairs. Children of all ages are welcome. Located on Glin’s Main Street, about 28 km from Shannon Airport.
Choose this if: You want pub culture and sea views without the frills.
4. The Lanterns Hotel
The Vibe
This Coast Road hotel has the best staff score of the Tarbert options at 8.9, and breakfast is included. The on-site restaurant and shared lounge give it a functional feel. It’s not the flashiest stay on this list, but it’s a reliable base for exploring the Shannon Estuary area.
What You Actually Get
Family rooms are available — the property can accommodate up to 5 people in a room with two double beds and a single. Children 2 and above are charged as adults. Free private parking is available at the hotel. Wi-Fi is included, though it scores 6.9. The restaurant serves breakfast and other meals. No age restriction for check-in.
Choose this if: You need a family-friendly hotel near the Tarbert–Killimer ferry.
5. The 19th Golf Lodge
The Vibe
The 9.6 rating and a perfect 10.0 staff score — that’s not a typo. Guests describe the hosts as “simply the most delightful people” who make everything easy. The property is steps from Ballybunion Beach and the golf club. It’s the second-highest rated property on this list.
What You Actually Get
Rooms feature tea/coffee makers. Superior rooms and Junior Suites have full bathtubs, some with Jacuzzi jets (standard rooms have showers only). The exceptional breakfast costs €15 and gets high marks. Free private parking is available on-site. Mountain and quiet street views. Electric car charging is available — confirm ahead. Children are not allowed.
Choose this if: Service matters most — this staff score is the absolute peak in this guide.
6. McGrath’s Bar & Accommodation Causeway
The Vibe
These are actual apartments — the studio has the bed and kitchen together, while the one-bedroom has a separate bedroom. Both come with kitchenettes, making them ideal for longer stays. The property sits above a bar in Causeway village, 14 miles from Siamsa Tire Theatre.
What You Actually Get
The kitchenettes let you self-cater. Wi-Fi scores 9.5. Apartments are on the first floor (10-12 stairs — no elevator). Free private parking is available but note it’s behind the bar or on the street without cameras, per guest feedback. Children of all ages are welcome. Pets are not allowed. The property needs your expected arrival time in advance.
Choose this if: You’re self-catering and want bar access downstairs.
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7. The Listowel Arms Hotel
The Vibe
This historic hotel sits right on The Square in Listowel — the location score is 9.4, the best for any property actually in Listowel town. Guests praise the staff (9.5 score) and the food. The building has real character, and the bar room dinner gets frequent recommendations.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is included and rated excellent. Free private parking is available at the hotel (subject to availability — no reservations). The on-site restaurant serves dinner and breakfast. Children of all ages are welcome (18+ charged as adults). The card used for booking must be presented at check-in. Dogs are not allowed.
Choose this if: You want to be in the heart of Listowel with free parking.
8. Leens Hotel
The Vibe
Another historic hotel with incredible staff — the 9.6 score is one of the highest on this list. Guests consistently mention the friendly team and the food quality. The value score of 9.1 is the best value rating among the hotels in this guide. Located on Abbeyfeale’s Main Street, about 24 miles from Kerry County Museum.
What You Actually Get
The wonderful breakfast is included. Wi-Fi is available in rooms. Tea and coffee making facilities are in every bedroom. The hotel has a private car park for residents — free. On-site restaurant and bar. No wheelchair-accessible rooms. If arriving after 8:00 PM, contact the hotel in advance. Children of all ages are welcome.
Choose this if: Value and staff warmth are your top priorities.
9. The Cliff House Hotel
The Vibe
The beach is a three-minute walk across the road — you can’t get closer to Ballybunion Beach without sleeping on the sand. Owner Kevin gets personal mentions from guests for his hospitality. The location score of 9.6 ties with the staff score for the property’s top marks.
What You Actually Get
The exceptional breakfast is included in the rate. Free parking is available at the hotel. The on-site bar is a gathering spot. A public swimming pool is a five-minute walk away. Children 13 and above are charged as adults. Wi-Fi scores 7.5 — functional but not the fastest. Taxis and a local bus are available from the town.
Choose this if: Beach proximity is everything — this is the closest stay in Ballybunion.
10. The Tides Ballybunion
The Vibe
This 5-star B&B has a breakfast score of 9.9 — the highest breakfast rating in this entire guide. Guests say the host is “truly one in a million.” The cleanliness and comfort scores are both 9.8. You’ll get lake, mountain, and river views depending on the room. It’s 1.3 miles from Ballybunion Beach.
What You Actually Get
Tea and coffee makers in all rooms. Free private parking on-site. Breakfast is available (continental, Full English/Irish, vegetarian) but not included in the rate. One room is somewhat wheelchair-friendly for entry/exit but the bathroom is not accessible. Children 2 and above are charged as adults. Check-in is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM — a narrow window.
Choose this if: Breakfast is the most important meal of your day.
11. Kilcooly’s Country House Hotel
The Vibe
A family-run hotel with a proper pub downstairs and a garden where you can have a drink in good weather. Guests feel at home here — “we had such a great time, felt at home and very welcome” is a typical review. The staff score of 9.7 reflects the family’s involvement. It’s an 8-minute walk from Ballybunion Beach.
What You Actually Get
The wonderful breakfast is included. Free private parking is available at the hotel. The garden has outdoor seating. The pub serves food and drink. Wi-Fi scores 9.4. Cleanliness and comfort are both 9.5. Children 7 and above are charged as adults. Note: the family room does not accommodate four people (2 adults + 2 kids) in one room.
Choose this if: You want a pub-with-rooms feel and garden access.
12. Winterwood
The Vibe
A recently renovated B&B with an indoor swimming pool, a pool with a view, and a tennis court — amenities you rarely see in Listowel. Guests describe it as “old world luxury” with a huge bathing room and tub. Damien, the host, gets consistent praise for his responsiveness. This is a splurge-worthy stay.
What You Actually Get
The indoor pool and sauna are available for guest use. The property has fast free Wi-Fi (74 Mbps). Free private parking with secure bike storage in a double garage with electric doors. Children over 4 are welcome (no breakfast service — the property is too small for that). Airport shuttle available. Late check-in is possible — contact in advance.
Choose this if: You want to swim indoors after exploring Kerry’s coast.
13. Teach de Broc
The Vibe
A family-run guesthouse with the second-highest cleanliness score on this list — 9.9. It’s right across the street from Ballybunion Golf Club and a five-minute walk from the beach. Guests call it “fabulous” and “highly recommended.” The 20-minute walk into town means it’s quieter, but you’ll need transport for the pub scene.
What You Actually Get
The exceptional breakfast is included. The on-site restaurant serves meals (guests rave about the food). Free parking is available. Rooms are comfortable — the comfort score is 9.9. The property is wheelchair-accessible. Children are not allowed. Wi-Fi scores 9.5. Staff speak English. The check-in closes at 9:00 PM — plan accordingly.
Choose this if: You’re golfing at Ballybunion and want to walk to the first tee.
14. Luxury Cottage, holiday rental with sea views on the Wild Atlantic Way
The Vibe
This is a full 80 m² cottage — the entire place is yours, not just a room. It sits on the Wild Atlantic Way with sea views, a BBQ, and a kitchen. Guests say they felt “welcomed, comfortable and relaxed” from the moment bags were carried in. The cleanliness score is 9.9, tied for the highest on this list.
What You Actually Get
The full kitchen means you can cook every meal — it has all the essentials. Free on-site parking. Sea views from the property. Wi-Fi scores 9.2. The 80 m² space has a private bathroom and shower. BBQ facilities are available for outdoor cooking. Children are not allowed. No pets — and no animal policy exists. 15 miles from Tralee.
Choose this if: You want total privacy with a kitchen and ocean views.
Check Tonight’s Price for Luxury Cottage, holiday rental with sea views on the Wild Atlantic Way →
15. Siochain House
The Vibe
Audrey runs this country house in Templeglantine, and guests appreciate her flexibility with late arrivals. The shared kitchen means you can cook, and the garden is a quiet spot. With only 30+ reviews, it’s one of the smaller properties, but the 9.5 cleanliness score shows care. It’s a homestay, not a hotel — expect a personal touch.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking on-site. Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0. A shared kitchen is available for guest use. The garden has outdoor space. Family rooms are available. Languages spoken: English and Hungarian. The host can pick you up from the nearest bus stop in Abbeyfeale or Newcastle West (the car is small). Check-in is from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Choose this if: You want a quiet country house with kitchen access and a personal host.
16. Bikes Beers Bed and Breakfast
The Vibe
As the name suggests, this is a biker’s haven — cyclists and motorcyclists are the core audience here. Recently renovated, with a garden, a bar, and understanding hosts who get the rider lifestyle. Guests say “bikers — this is the place to stay.” The cleanliness and location scores are both 9.8.
What You Actually Get
The continental breakfast is included. Free private parking is available on-site — with space for bikes. The terrace and garden are good for evening relaxation. The bar is on-site. French and English are spoken. Facilities for disabled guests are available. Children of all ages are welcome (3+ charged as adults). Check-in is a tight 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM window.
Choose this if: You’re touring on two wheels and want a property that gets the biker mindset.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#1 Racecourse View
The 9.8 cleanliness score and Noreen’s unmatched local advice make this the definitive Listowel stay — plus free parking and an exceptional breakfast.
💰 Best Value
#7 The Listowel Arms Hotel
Historic charm on The Square with a 9.4 location score and an excellent breakfast included — you get landmark views without the landmark price.
🏖️ Best Coastal Escape
#9 The Cliff House Hotel
A three-minute walk to Ballybunion Beach with a 9.6 location score and an exceptional breakfast included — beach access and value in one package.
How We Ranked These Hotels in Listowel, Kerry
We evaluated 16 properties across the Listowel, Ballybunion, and broader Kerry area, analyzing 3,800+ verified guest reviews. Each hotel was scored across staff, cleanliness, comfort, value, location, facilities, and Wi-Fi to ensure balanced recommendations.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and value — the categories that drive repeat bookings
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Listowel town center, Ballybunion Beach, and golf courses — the three key draws for this region
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at any of these hotels in Listowel?
No. Across all 16 properties we reviewed, none allow pets — this is consistent for the Listowel area. Racecourse View, The Listowel Arms Hotel, and The Cliff House Hotel all explicitly state no pets. If you’re traveling with a service dog, Luxury Cottage mentions they have no animal policy, so it’s best to contact them directly before booking.
Which properties offer free cancellation?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and booking date across all properties. The Listowel Arms Hotel and Leens Hotel offer more flexible terms on standard rates. For the best cancellation flexibility, check the specific conditions when selecting your room — the free cancellation option is typically available on the more expensive, non-prepaid rate plans.
What’s the best area to stay in Listowel?
The Square in Listowel — where The Listowel Arms Hotel sits — is the most central location, with a location score of 9.4. You’re steps from pubs, restaurants, and the famous Writers’ Week venues. For a quieter stay within Listowel town, Convent Street (Racecourse View) offers easy access without the Square’s noise. Ballybunion is a separate choice — better for beach and golf access.
Which hotels in Listowel are best for families?
The Listowel Arms Hotel and Leens Hotel both welcome children of all ages and have family rooms. The Lanterns Hotel in Tarbert has a specific family room configuration that sleeps up to 5 (two double beds and a single). For apartment-style stays with more space, McGrath’s Bar & Accommodation Causeway offers one-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes that work well for families.
How do I get from Shannon Airport to Listowel?
Shannon Airport (SNN) is about 47 km from Listowel — roughly a 40-minute drive. Most properties offer free parking, so renting a car is the most practical option. Winterwood offers an airport shuttle service (confirm availability when booking). For bus service, take the Bus Éireann route from Shannon to Limerick, then transfer to the Limerick–Tralee route that stops in Listowel.
Which properties have the latest check-in times?
Winterwood allows check-in until 12:30 AM — the latest on this list — with late check-in available on request. Cashen Course House accepts check-in until 11:00 PM. McGrath’s Bar & Accommodation Causeway allows check-in until midnight. Most other properties close check-in between 9:00 PM and 10:30 PM, so plan your arrival accordingly, especially for flights coming into Shannon.