Coast explores the latest hot hotel on the British coast – The Dean, in Galway.
WHAT’S THE BUZZ? Opened in April 2022, The Dean Galway is a 100-bed boutique hotel located a stone’s throw from Eyre Square in the heart of Galway, Ireland’s culture capital. It is the third outpost of The Dean brand, Ireland’s homegrown design-led boutique hotel brand, also with locations in Dublin and Cork.
The Dean Galway’s building is a perfect blend of old and new, combining a striking modern structure designed by Lawrence & Long Architects, with unique historic structures which have been restored.
There is so much going on under one roof, so you can stay, play, and have your way at The Dean Galway.
WHAT ARE THE ROOMS LIKE? There are 100 comfortable, design-led bedrooms and suites on the upper ground, first and second floors. Expect super cool and comfortable rooms filled with stuff that will make you smile, designed to ensure you have everything you need at your disposal.
We’re talking big bouncy beds, rainfall power showers, and fully stocked Smeg fridges. There are Netflix-enabled smart TVs, a munchie box filled with sweet and savoury Irish snacks and booze, a Marshall amp for your tunes, record players and vinyl by the dozen, luxury Brooks & Co toiletries and loads more.
The Penthouse, which sleeps up to eight guests, will be the best room in town, bar none. Soak it all up while relaxing in the standalone copper bath, or have your own private party in the spacious living area and private balcony, filled with all the high-tech gadgets, treats and games you could ever want.
POWER Gym is a luxury, boutique health club, and the first of its kind in Galway City. Guests can enjoy world-class fitness experiences or relax in the outdoor heated pool, sauna and steam room. Located on the lower ground floor of The Dean, the gym utilises and highlights the original vaulted brickwork railway tunnel, making it one of the most striking features of the hotel.
The Dean are creative partners of the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and proud providers of The Dean Art Studio, a dedicated artistic hub and cultural space in Dublin which provides over 20 artists with free city-centre studio space. At The Dean Galway, art is a prominent feature across the building. The art collection of over 300 pieces aims to promote and support Irish art, particularly regional artists local to the hotel.
BEST SEA VIEW?
From Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant with its wrap-around balcony.
HOW ABOUT THE FOOD?
Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace plates excellent food with a side of stunning views over Galway city and the coast. The 120-seat restaurant has three spacious terraces wrapping around the rooftop of the building, making it the perfect spot for every season with its awning, heaters, and plenty of cosy seating.
The Elephant & Castle restaurant, renowned for its famous chicken wings, is on the ground floor. Elephant & Castle, which first dished up its hearty, home-cooked dishes in Dublin’s Temple Bar in 1989, will undoubtedly become a popular fixture on Galway’s buzzing food scene.
WHAT WILL IT COST? Room rates are from €150 per room, room only.
HOW DO I BOOK? Book direct at thedean.ie for the best rate.
