Fitzwilliam Hotel (The), Dublin

Slick in design but still very functional, the Fitzwilliam is one of Dublin's most exclusive hotels, and has a reputation for employing top of the range 'celebrity' chefs in its Peacock restaurant. Christopher's (the hotel's other restaurant) offers excellent cuisine in a less formal atmosphere and at keener prices. Rooms are clean, well-kept and have a simple luxury to them. A number of the more elegant (and hence more expensive) suites offer great views of Stephen's Green. Staff are keen to help and, overall, the Fitzwilliam has an established feel, despite actually being relatively new.