A Landmark in Hospitality since 1854

Spectacular architecture melded with effortless service and genuine hospitality has made Great Southern Killarney an iconic retreat for over 165 years. Originally opened in 1854.

Built in 1854, Great Southern Killarney still stands proudly as Killarney’s Premier Historic Hotel and is situated on 6 acres of beautiful gardens right in the heart of Killarney town centre. The hotel is a member of the internationally renowned collection of independent hotels, Preferred Hotels and Resorts and Historic Hotels Worldwide; awarded the Best Historic Hotel in Europe in their Awards of Excellence. Great Southern is also part of the Hayfield Family Collection of properties, a family business led by local hoteliers, which also incorporates Killarney Royal and Hayfield Manor in Cork. Great Southern Killarney has enjoyed a most interesting and impressive history, throughout which the hotel has fortunately retained its striking original Victorian features. Guest facilities include the gourmet Garden Room Restaurant, the welcoming meeting point Brownes - The Bar, The Killarney Wine Room, home to the hotel’s wine tasting experience & a traditional Afternoon Tea service which is served daily in The Grand Foyer & the beautifully restful, Reading Room Residents’ Lounge. Great Southern Killarney is within a moment’s walking distance of the sublime Killarney National Park, & is favourably located alongside Killarney Railway Station. 

For visitors to Killarney, Great Southern presents a truly unrivalled location, be it for a social or leisure break to explore Co. Kerry, a luxury wedding or for a business conference, Great Southern Killarney provides the finest service coupled with outstanding facilities. For family holidays & breaks, Great Southern hosts the Kerry Cubs kids clubs throughout the school holidays with a host of activities for children allowing parents and guardians a little time to enjoy the hotel and all the amenities of Killarney beyond. Great Southern Killarney is also home to Killarney’s premier events centre, with a choice of venues in which to host prestigious corporate and social events. Great Southern is known locally as an iconic location in which to exchange vows and celebrate both intimate or grand-scale weddings. For a special occasion Great Southern is a central venue of choice in Killarney with private dining celebrations and parties hosted in the hotel’s spectacular Victorian suites. Great Southern Killarney also has a number of Self-Catering Holiday Homes that are ideal for families, groups of friends and event organisers looking for all the convenience of home along with the added luxury of the hotel’s extensive facilities. Click here to view our Wedding Brochure.

Great Southern Killarney has achieved success with a host of awards throughout the years, most recently as Best Historic Hotel in Europe 2020 from Historic Hotels Worldwide as well as Ireland’s Hotel Bar of the Year 2018, Ireland’s Four Star Hotel- 2017 Gold Medal Hotel & Catering Review Awards, Ireland's Hotel Breakfast- 2018 Gold Medal Hotel & Catering Review Awards and Best Conference Venue- National Hospitality Awards 2017.

From your base at Great Southern Killarney in the heart of Killarney Town centre, you are in the perfect location to set off on a destination adventure, explore the iconic Ring of Kerry, taking you on a breath-taking tour of wild seas and rugged landscapes along the Wild Atlantic Way. Opt to enjoy a day in nearby Killarney National Park, with its stunning woodlands, historic buildings, lakes and mountains or enjoy a game of Golf with half a dozen championship golf courses to choose room a mere ‘putt’ away. Opt to simply ramble to your heart’s content around quaint Killarney town centre full of boutiques, cafés, shops and art galleries or enjoy some treatment time in the hotel’s Health & Beauty Rooms. 

Residents of Great Southern can avail of Onsite Car Parking on a complimentary basis & free WIFI is offered throughout the hotel. For the very best value, book direct with Great Southern Killarney & begin by perusing our exclusive Special Offers.

Gift vouchers are also available for all services at Great Southern and your Great Southern Gift Card can also be redeemed at our other Hayfield Family Collection Properties of Killarney Royal & Hayfield Manor in Cork. We look forward to warmly welcoming you to the Great Southern, Killarney’s Premier Historic Hotel and it is our utmost aim to create a host of delightful memories for you during your stay.