The heat of the roaring fire greets you at the door as you enter the castle. The smell of peat fills your lungs and you feel a sense of calm. The stone on the wall is much older than you and has seen more than you ever will in your lifetime. You look out the window and you see the green patchwork hills. You feel at home.
Staying in a castle while in Ireland is a dream for many visitors. Each castle has a unique story filled with rich history that is waiting to be told. Some will be of sadness and war and others will be of generations of families who created memories in the same walls where you will walk.
Travel back in time and make those dreams a reality by staying in one our top favourite castle hotels in Ireland.
Dromoland Castle, Co Clare
Dromoland Castle’s rich history starts with the O’Brien Family, descendants of Brian Boru, the ancient High King of Ireland. The castle was home to the O’Brien Family for eight generations. As you approach the castle from the long drive, the grand façade of the castle appears and takes you back in time. Having been welcoming guests since the 15th century, Dromoland Castle offers the best combination of lavish décor and historic grandeur supported by the finest modern comforts.
Set over 450 acres of land, Dromoland Castle’s stunning landscape encompasses the best of the Irish countryside. On site, guests can enjoy the views of the world champion 18-hole golf course or tee off for a round. Other onsite activities include archery, falconry, and a spa. There are two incredible restaurants to choose from, a cocktail bar, and afternoon tea. The location of Dromoland Castle is ideal for those looking to explore the Western part of the country or flying to/from Shannon Airport.
Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
Set in the outskirts of Cong village overlooking Lough Corrib is the magnificent Ashford Castle. The long-extended history of Ashford Castle is what adds character to this hotel and makes it so unique. Founded in the 1200s by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family, the castle was later bought by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness of the famous Guinness family and Brewery. Many owners later, today the hotel is owned by the Red Carnation Hotel Group and underwent an extension refurbishment in 2015.
Ashford Caste takes pride in their 5-star customer service and ability to make guests feel as if they are home when they step through the door. The hotel has something for everyone from romantic breaks, family stays, and numerous estate activities. Over the years, Ashford has hosted many famous people ranging from US presidents, famous actors, actresses and musicians. For those looking for the ultimate 5-star castle stay in Ireland, Ashford Castle is not to be missed.
Lough Eske Castle, Co Donegal
In one of the less frequently visited counties, the 5-star Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal sits on the shores of the picturesque Lough Eske. Located about 5 miles from Donegal Town, this award winning castle hotel displays the perfect combination of luxury, peace and friendly hospitality.
Lough Eske Castle was first built in 1474. Some of the original stone dates back to 1621 and remains at the property. The castle was once the seat for a powerful 14th century Donegal clan, the O’Donnells.
This luxury lakeside castle offers a mix of contemporary and classical country elegance. The Solis Spa and pool is uniquely located in an original Victorian Glass House exhibiting a sense of tranquility. The castle is ideally located for exploring the rugged and natural landscape of Donegal. The estate also offers fishing, cooking demonstrations and a history walk every morning.
Castle Leslie, Co Monaghan
Visitors staying in Castle Leslie will feel as though they have been transported back in time. The castle experience is unique as you will not find televisions, radios, or minibars in any of the castle bedrooms. There are 20 original bedrooms that are individually decorated. No two rooms are the same, each with their own riveting story attached to it. The authentic interiors and old-style hospitality are what makes Castle Leslie stand out from the rest.
Castle Leslie offers a unique position among other castle hotels in Ireland. The castle is one of the last great Irish Castle estates still in the hands of its founding family. Since the 1600s, the Leslie Family have lived on the Estate. They have welcomed everyone from politicians, poets and well-known celebrities.
The Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. Set on one Ireland’s best-reserved lake, it is an ideal location for fishing. Other on-site activities include horseback riding, walking trails and the Victorian Treatment Rooms.
Ballyseede Castle, Co Kerry
As the only castle hotel in County Kerry, Ballyseede Castle is an ideal location for those wishing to tour the highlights of the south such as Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.
In the late 16th century, the rebellious Earls of Desmonds used the castle as their base. After refusing to swear allegiance to the crown, this resulted in the Desmond Wars which took place over 300 years. The Castle was then confiscated and handed over to Robert Blennerhassett for the nominal rent of a red rose, which had to be presented each year on Midsummer’s Day.
Ballyseede Castle sits on 30 acres of native woodland. The hotel has some quirky traits such as the resident Irish Wolfhounds, Einstein and Mr. Higgins, who entertain guests in the formal gardens. For the supernatural believers, a ghost named Hilda is rumoured to haunt the castle’s basement and every year on March 24th she makes her presence known. This family-run hotel presents old world excellence with a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.
Adare Manor, Co Limerick
Located just outside Ireland’s prettiest village is the luxurious Adare Manor. This neo-gothic Manor style hotel sits on the banks of the River Maigue in County Limerick. Once owned by the Dunraven Family, the construction of Adare Manor came at an opportune time for the area. The building provided labour for the surrounding villagers during the potato famine that devastated the country during the mid-19th century.
The manor sits on 840 acres of land which is the same size as Central Park in New York City. The hotel recently went through a multimillion euro refurbishment making it one of the most luxurious places to stay in Ireland.
The Oak Room, the fine dining restaurant in the hotel, is Limerick’s only Michelin Star restaurant. The golf course, designed by Tom Fazio, will host the Ryder Cup 2026. Aside from these prestigious accolades, Adare Manor offers a friendly, elegant and top notch stay you will not forget.
Ballynahinch Castle, Co Galway
Nestled at the foothills of the Twelve Bens Mountain in Connemara you will find Ballynahinch Castle. Set in the most idyllic location, the hotel encompasses all the rugged, natural beauty of the West of Ireland.
The property was originally built as a small castle by Donal O’Flaherty, husband of Grace O’Malley. Grace’s life as pirate is well known and the Pirate Queen is steeped in history and legend.
The 450-acre estate has a diverse system of interconnected loughs and rivers which makes this hotel renowned as one of the finest fisheries in Ireland. There is also 5kms of winding walks through oak and beech woodlands in addition to wonderful Connemara hikes.
Ballynahinch Castle exemplifies all the personalities of a fishing lodge combined with the luxurious feel of a 5-star hotel. The rooms in the castle have a sophisticated country feel. The Owenmore Restaurant boasts some of the freshest and finest seafood with incredible views.
Markree Castle, Co Sligo
Located in the stunning North West of Ireland in County Sligo, Markree Castle embodies the best of old-world charm with a relaxed elegance. The Irish Victorian and Georgian interior architect include the beautifully decorated wood staircase to the stain glass windows that trace the Cooper family tree. The authentic interiors and period pieces found in the castle transport you back in time.
The castle was the ancestral home of the Cooper family. Up until 2015, the 10th generation descendants of the family owned the castle. Shortly after this, Markree Castle underwent an extension renovation. Since re-opening, the castle has enjoyed welcoming visitors to this magical property.
The castle encourages guests to visit who are looking for a short break away or an elaborate gathering or corporate event. Markree Castle has a broad list of estate activities that include hawk walks, stand up paddling, and numerous walking trails.
Luttrellstown Castle, Co Dublin
Lutrellstown Castle is the best of both worlds given its proximity to the country’s capital city. The castle is ideally located close to Dublin City but also allows guests to forget about the hustle and bustle and enjoy a luxury castle estate.
The castle gets its name from the Luttrell family that held the estate for more than 300 years. The castle has had many owners since the Luttrell family, including a member of the world-famous Guinness family.
Lutrellstown Castle sits on 567 acres of lavish private parkland making it the perfect escape for peace and tranquillity. For the golf enthusiasts, there is a 18-hole championship golf course and a state–of –the–art three-storey clubhouse. There are also numerous estate activities ranging from falconry, cycling, and horse back riding. This picturesque sanctuary has something to offer everyone.
Kilkea Castle, Co Kildare
As one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland, Kilkea Castle makes guests feel like royalty from the moment they arrive. With history dating back to the 12th century, this castle hotel beautiful captures the mystical charm with sophistication and style.
The castle was originally built by Hugh de Lacy, the Earl of Ulster and Chief Governor of Ireland, for Sir Walter de Riddlesford, a Norman knight. The castle was then the former home of the FitzGerald dynasty for almost 800 years. After being purchased by an American couple in 2013, Kilkea Castle opened in 2017 after an extension renovation.
Each bedroom in the main part of the castle is unique in size and décor. There is an 18-hole golf course and other outdoor activities include equestrian, falconry, woodland walks and tennis. This quiet country retreat is perfect for those looking for a historic castle stay with the touches of modern amenities.
