Service in the dining-room was second to none - attentive and charming. Room was very comfortable - white bedlinen, no clutter, good shower. Location very central, close to shops, park and other eateries although we chose to eat in Jacksons - it's too good to risk anywhere else. There are dozens and dozens of interesting places to visit in Roscommom - e.g. the King House in Boyle, Lough Key Forest Park, Castlecoote House (mystical) to name but a few. What I liked most were the unspoiled green fields of north Roscommon - no haphazard development nor one-off bungalows blighting the landscape. The only thing I didn't like was the noise of other guests leaving to go out at 10.30 and then coming in at 3p.m. and having loud conversations on the landing with occupants of neighbouring rooms. That, however, is the fault of some inconsiderate people and not of Jacksons. Another BIG advantage is that you don't have to pay for parking in Roscommon - unlike most other Irish towns and cities. This is civilised.

Geraldine is a perfectionist in every sense of the word and combined with her immense imagination and ability to layer flavors makes every bite a diamond. From the friendly, courteous staff to the exceptional menu and wine list. I strongly recommend this to anyone looking for somewhere to have an enjoyable evening in nice surroundings with good food.

Positives:
The manager and staff were genuinely great; they were helpful and courteous without being fussy, as can happen with guest-houses. For example, the manager deducted money from my bill because I didn't have breakfast (more on that later.)

The room was light, clean and comfortable and great value - especially when you compare other places in town, like the Abbey Hotel or Hannons.

Jacksons is right in the middle of town. Very handy.

Negatives:
The location is a double-edged sword. Parking can be an issue on the Main Street. I had to leave my car overnight in the supermarket car park about a 3 minute walk from the guest house. The car was safe enough and, despite the signs up saying there was a 2 hour maximum stay in the car park, my car remained clamp-free.

Music from a bar across from the alley next to the guest house went on until late. If you're a light sleeper then I wouldn't recommend a weekend stay for this reason.

There was an incident where the manager asked some loud drinkers at the bar to move on; he handled the matter extremely well. This was only half eight on Friday night. I imagine it could be a nuisance or intimidating for families with children or older guests.

Food isn't great, if I'm honest. I've eaten at Jacksons on two separate occasions. First time I had to send meatballs back as they weren't cooked. This time the steak was lovely but the dressing was just awful. Maybe this is just personal preference.

Bizarrely, breakfast was only served from 9am. I couldn't hang around that late so had to miss breakfast. As I mentioned above the manager deducted this from my final bill, which was good of him. Still, 9am is late.

I'd advised the manager I would be leaving at 8:30. No one was there at this time. I knocked on the door to reception but there was no answer. I'm glad I'd paid the night before as I would have been delayed. I had to go back upstairs and leave the key to the room in the door of the room.

Would I recommend this hotel?
Yes, despite the negatives. Simply because the alternatives are worse. Hannons is very odd and the Abbey overpriced. Jacksons, for its minor faults, was a handy place to stay and good value.

The food was beautiful, the rooms were luxurious & spotlessly clean & the staff friendly and helpful. Couldn't recommend it enough!