Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin

The sleek glass-and-concrete Radisson, just off South Great George's Street, offers to-the-point business and, increasingly, leisure accommodation with a dash of cool contemporary style, proof positive that it is possible to be elegant and functional at the same time. It's getting some major extensions over the next few years, adding a heap of rooms plus a spa and gym (by April 2019), but it's still a reliable choice in the meanwhile, with courteous staff, large rooms, a good bar and a quiet but central location near the castle.

There's secure parking available under the hotel, although it's not free.

room

Each room at the front—all clean lines and minimal fuss—has one wall that is basically a huge window, which brings light and views in. All rooms, though, are large, bright and crisp, with king-size beds and pink, purple, green and grey tones that get on harmoniously enough.

bathroom

Bathrooms are grey, with separate showers and baths, which is unusual - and welcome - in Dublin.

lobby

The lobby ticks all the big hotel boxes you'd expect, with fruit flavored water in reception and double height ceilings with interesting chains of silver-y baubles for decoration, plus professional, friendly staff behind the three separate reception desks.

Have a look at the marble staircase - the glass wall alongside it features the words of the Irish proclamation of independence.

gym

There's no pool or gym at the moment (although that will change come 2019), but guests currently have free access to the nearby Iveagh Fitness Club, which has both.

dining

The large V'n'V restaurant has an international flavor and upscale feel, all dark wood and white tablecloths, and can provide buffet lunches for groups if required. Breakfast is a lavish spread.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The hotel can feel a little business-y, particularly when there are large groups in town, holding meetings and using the restaurant for business lunches. But the Radisson Blu Royal Dublin does boast the well-oiled machine vibe of a good business hotel, so there are positives and negatives.

drinking

The cocktail bar Sure is a hit with the locals, and as well as cocktail carafes and other drinks, serves a tasty tapas-style business lunch too. The Waterford Crystal Vintage Whiskey Tasting Room (bit of a mouthful when you've tried a couple), tucked under a feature staircase in the lobby, is surrounded by glazed walls and the drinks are served from a crystal table.