Stepping Through The Wardrobe On A Magical Narnia Themed Cork Hotel Stay

One day, you will be old enough to start reading fairytales again.

But until then, a Narnia-themed stay in a Cork hotel will do.

Over the festive period, The Imperial Hotel launched their Fire & Ice package; a magical experience filled with snow queens, cosy vibes, and delicious cocktails… and a gorgeous night’s stay in a lovely hotel.

And, team STELLAR was lucky enough to check it out too.

The Imperial was decked out – beautifully so. Stepping into the foyer was like stepping into Narnia itself, with the ice queen’s throne and crown, an antique wardrobe scene complete with fur coats and vintage pieces, and even the lamppost where Lucy first meets Mr. Tumnus on display.

The hotel’s traditional train set was also in operation, and featured famous characters from CS Lewis’ classic tale, as well as snow, icicles, and other festive delights all around.

After a slight check-in hiccup, we arrived to our room decked out with a bottle of prosecco, Narnia-themed chocolates, and our very own Christmas tree (!).

The Imperial is located right in the heart of Cork city, so we were never too far from a side street wander, a light snack in the English Market, or a sneaky hot whiskey to bring our temperatures up.

The highlight of our stay simply has to be the dinner. Baked camembert, smoked fish cakes, porcini risotto, and delectable panna cotta were just some of the dishes we indulged in – the camembert being a personal favourite. I could’ve eaten it all night, despite my ever-filling belly.

While we ate we sipped on some gorgeous Narnia themed cocktails, which were expertly created by the hotel’s mixologist.

My guest went for The White Witch’s Spell (whiskey, lemon, egg white, winter spice syrup and Cointreau), while I tried The Great Lion (Fireball cinnamon whisky, cranberry juice, Cointreau, lime juice, grenadine, topped with 7up).

Let it be known, the drinks were divine. Tasty, light, and exactly what was needed after a full week or so of guzzling Baileys and questionable, dusty red wines at home.

As part of the Fire & Ice package, guests also had the opportunity to book in for a special Narnia Afternoon Tea that included a festive cocktail, some Turkish delight treats, winter-y mini sandwiches, and more.

Unfortunately, we had to hop our train back to Dublin before we could enjoy the tea, but the Imperial staff were kind enough to give us a little to-go box filled with treats as we checked out. Irish Rail had never seen the like!

Fire & Ice package or no Fire & Ice package, the Imperial is an ideal spot for a brief trip to the city. It was my second time staying with the hotel, and definitely the most special.

The Imperial Hotel’s January Sale is currently ongoing, with all guests getting 20% off B&B stays, plus €24 food credit to spend at the hotel until January 9th, 2024. You can find out more here. 

This writer was offered a stay in Cork’s Imperial hotel in exchange for a fair and honest review. 

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