I chose Hamill's B&B initially for location, and because from the website, I could also tell it is very well run with lovely rooms. Neither aspect let me down! I was traveling alone internationally, a US citizen without car, and could see on maps that it is right on Ballinamore's main street. Though the home is tucked away on a long driveway, slightly distanced from the main road and surrounded by trees and greens, the address is still on the same street with many restaurants and bars, so that it was easy for me to obtain meals, and village activity would be accessible by foot. In this way it was perfect! The Chinese restaurant is especially, remarkably delicious... and I've even lived on the US's west coast, for comparison.
Additionally I chose Hamill's because of the proximity to the Leitrim Genealogy Centre. I loved being able to stop in to meet a staff member there for an application. And also just a few steps away is the library. Though closed to in-person visits due to the pandemic, I was able to work on researching family history at both spots mostly via email.
Other guests with cars spent day hours hiking the gorgeous land nearby. The trail by the canal, again just off main street, is an option for those without a car and is beautiful to explore. I spent some time at Garadice Lake as well, which was wonderful.
But I have not mentioned enough about the actual B&B; it's fabulous. Damien and Bernadette are so very welcoming and accommodating. Damien mentioned to me how much he loves running the B&B and it certainly shows. As far as breakfast, he went out of his way to address my special diet needs without batting an eye. The breakfast is nearly too much, with so many delicious choices.
I probably should not say anything more about how much both Damien and Bernadette went above and beyond their expected roles... because it would not be fair to encourage guests to expect all that they did to make my stay memorable, meaningful and comfortable. But I'll just say they both made sure I had everything I needed, and was able to experience all that I had set out to do while staying in Ballinamore. Additionally my room was absolutely lovely--lovely enough that one of my days, I enjoyed staying in and reading! I would highly recommend a stay at Hamill's and I would return there in a heartbeat, if given the chance.
- Becky read more