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The 16 Best Castle Hotels in Ireland to Stay in on Your Trip

Are you planning a trip to Ireland? Well, get ready for a unique experience because staying in a castle is not just for the elite anymore! I’ve curated the ultimate list of the 16 best Irish castle hotels, ensuring an enchanting option for every budget.

I’ve explored these historic accommodations extensively, from the renowned Ashford Castle to hidden gems like Wilton Castle. So, I can assure you that staying in these castles is a perfect addition to your Ireland itinerary.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product or book a stay through these links at no extra cost to you.

1. Ashford Castle (Co. Mayo)

Aerial view of Ashford Castle Hotel in Cong, County Mayo, Ireland.

Photos courtesy of Ashford Castle.

Ashford Castle, part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, ranks among the best luxury castle hotels in Ireland. Once owned by the Guinness family, it’s one of the country’s oldest castle hotels at 800 years old. With 83 elegant rooms, guests can indulge in a regal experience.

Situated on a 350-acre estate in Cong, County Mayo, this 5-star hotel boasts a 9-hole golf course, an award-winning spa, six restaurants, three bars, and a premier cinema room. Activities abound, ranging from horse riding and fishing to falconry, archery, tennis, and boat trips on Lough Corrib.

A more budget-friendly option is also available on the premises: the Lodge at Ashford Castle, a 4-star hotel. Don’t miss the famous afternoon tea in the Connaught Room—available both to guests and visitors–to feel like you’re living in a fairytale. 

Amenities at Ashford Castle

  • Fine dining, casual dining, and afternoon tea
  • Ireland’s Best Hotel Spa
  • 9-hole golf course, two tennis courts
  • Archery, golf, horse riding, fishing
  • Premier cinema room

Click here to book your stay!

2. Dromoland Castle Hotel (Co. Clare)

Aerial view of Dromoland Castle, located near Newmarket-on-Fergus in County Clare, Ireland.

Photos courtesy of Dromoland Castle.

Dromoland Castle, one of the finest luxury castle hotels in Ireland, traces its origins to the 16th century as the ancestral home of the O’Brien family. Redesigned in 1836, this property is conveniently located 15 minutes from Shannon Airport and an hour from the Cliffs of Moher.

Dromoland Castle provides an ideal base for exploring Ireland’s attractions with 97 spacious rooms, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, and activities like falconry and fishing. Don’t miss the award-winning Earl of Thomond Restaurant or the daily afternoon tea served between 1-4 p.m.

Amenities at Dromoland Castle

  • 500 acres to explore
  • 18-hole golf course
  • Fine dining at Earl of Thomond restaurant
  • Swimming pool and tennis court
  • Nature tails

Click here to book your stay!

Read More: Cliffs of Moher Tips

3. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel (Co. Galway)

Aerial view of Ballynahinch Castle, with Twelve Bens mountain range in the background.

Photos courtesy of Ballynahinch Castle.

Nestled on 700 acres in the Connemara region, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, a three-story Irish country house dating back to 1754, has been welcoming guests since the 1940s.

Positioned along the Wild Atlantic Way, with views of the Twelve Bens mountain range, the property boasts 48 guest rooms and suites. Activities include fly fishing, estate walks, cycling in Connemara, and dining at the scenic Owenmore Restaurant overlooking the estate’s salmon river.

Amenities at Ballynahinch Castle

  • Guided hikes and estate walks
  • Ballynahinch picnics
  • The Owenmore restaurant
  • One of the finest fisheries in Ireland
  • The Walled Garden

Click here to book your stay!

4. Lough Eske Castle Hotel (Co. Donegal)

Photos courtesy of Lough Eske Castle.

Lough Eske Castle Hotel, in County Donegal near the Blue Stack Mountains, is an ideal hub for exploring Sliabh Liag cliffs, Glenveagh National Park, Donegal Castle, and Donegal Golf Club. On-site activities include fishing, biking, and spa treatments at CARA Organic Beauty Spa.

The Elizabethan-style castle, built in 1861, offers 97 rooms and suites, ranging from contemporary to traditional. Explore its history with a daily tour at 11 a.m. and savor dining at Cedars Restaurant or the two bars featuring acclaimed afternoon tea and Sunday lunch.

Amenities at Lough Eske Castle

  • Daily history tour
  • Complimentary bikes
  • CARA Organic Beauty Spa
  • Whisky Tastings
  • The two AA Rosette Cedars Restaurant

Click here to check the current rate!

5. Waterford Castle Hotel (Co. Waterford)

View of the main façade of Waterford Castle, located on a private Island on the River Suir.

Photos courtesy of Waterford Castle Resort.

Waterford Castle Hotel, uniquely situated on its private island, stands out among other castle hotels in Ireland. Just ten minutes from Waterford City and a 90-minute drive from Dublin Airport, guests access the resort via a four-minute private ferry ride running every 15 minutes.

Accommodations include 19 bedrooms in the 16th-century castle and 45 island lodges, ideal for groups. The island offers activities like golf, croquet, tennis, and scenic trails for wildlife spotting. With its secluded charm, Waterford Castle is one of the best castles to stay in Ireland for families.

Amenities at Waterford Castle Hotel

  • 18-hole par 72 golf course
  • Afternoon tea
  • The two AA Rosette Munster Room Restaurant
  • Picnics and scenic walks
  • Lawn croquet

Click here to book your stay!

6. Kilkea Castle Hotel (Co. Kildare)

View of the front façade of Kilkea Castle located northwest of Castledermot, County Kildare.

Photos courtesy of Kilkea Castle.

Kilkea Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, is one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles. Originally a medieval stronghold for the Fitzgerald family, it now operates as a luxury castle hotel under the Preferred Hotels and Resorts L.V.X Collection.

Just an hour from Dublin, Kilkea Castle is an ideal spot for a romantic Irish getaway. Spanning 180 acres with woodlands, gardens, and an 18-hole golf course, the historic castle hotel offers Castle, Carriage, or Lodge Bedrooms. You can also rent the entire 11-bedroom castle for events or group stays!

Amenities at Kilkea Castle Hotel

  • Restaurant 1180
  • Falconry and archery
  • 18-hole golf course
  • Tennis courts
  • Spa

Click here to book your stay!

Read More: Best Books Set in Ireland

7. Ballyseede Castle Hotel (Co. Kerry)

Side view of Ballyseede Castle, with an Irish wolfhound posing in front.

Photos courtesy of Ballyseede Castle.

Ballyseede Castle Hotel is located on the Wild Atlantic Way and is the only castle hotel in County Kerry. Therefore, it makes a surprisingly budget-friendly base to explore the Ring of Kerry and Slea Head Drive.

Situated on 30 acres, it’s a member of Romantic Castles of Ireland, offering 44 rooms, a 2-star AA Rosette O’Connell Restaurant, and daily afternoon tea. Meet Molly, the Irish wolfhound resident, and, if you dare, encounter the friendly ghost, Hilda Blennerhassett.

Amenities at Ballyseed Castle Hotel

  •  30 acres of private gardens and woodland
  • Two AA Rosette O’Connell Restaurant
  • Afternoon tea

Click here to book your stay!

8. Cabra Castle Hotel (Co. Cavan)

Aerial view of Cabra Castle, located in south-east County Cavan, Ireland.

Photos courtesy of Cabra Castle.

Cabra Castle Hotel, set on 100 acres near Kingscourt in County Cavan, is a popular castle wedding venue just over an hour from Dublin. Dating back to 1760, this 4-star hotel offers 105 uniquely designed rooms in the castle, a 17th-century courtyard, and six charming cottages.

Affordable and open to the public daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., it’s an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or exploration of its historic grounds.

Amenities at Cabra Castle Hotel

  • The Courtroom Restaurant
  • The Derby Bar
  • Afternoon tea

Click here to book your stay!

9. Wilton Castle (Co. Wexford)

View of the front façade of Wilton Castle, a privately owned castle in County Wexford.

Photos courtesy of Wilton Castle.

Experience the magic of an Irish castle experience at Wilton Castle Hotel in County Wexford. Originally in ruins, Sean Windsor, who grew up on the neighboring farm, restored it to its former glory.

Now a popular wedding venue and holiday destination, it offers four suites: the Butler, Furlong, Alcock, and Thornhill. Each suite features elegant decor, kitchens, cozy sitting rooms, and luxurious furnishings. Or, for a large event, you can reserve the entire castle for 14 guests!

Amenities at Wilton Castle

  • Kitchen and sitting room in each suite
  • 1-3 bedroom apartments
  • Entire castle can be booked for events

Click here to book your stay!

10. Castle Leslie Estate (Co. Monaghan)

View of the front façade of Castle Leslie, in County Monaghan.

Photos courtesy of Castle Leslie Estate.

Castle Leslie Estate, near Glaslough in County Monaghan, spans 1,000 acres of Irish countryside with woodlands and lakes. Just 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast, it’s one of the last castles in Ireland to remain in the hands of its founding family.

Accommodations include the Castle, Lodge, Old Stable Mews, and Village Cottages. Outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, falconry, and archery are popular, and don’t miss the spa experience at the Victorian Treatment rooms!

Amenities at Castle Leslie Estate

  •  Equestrian Centre
  • Private walking trails
  • The 2 AA Rosette Snaffles restaurant
  • Afternoon tea

Click here to book your stay!

11. Kilronan Castle (Co. Roscommon)

Front facade of Kilronan Castle in County Roscommon.

Photos courtesy of Kilronan Castle.

Originally built around 1820 and expanded in the 1880s, Kilronan Castle Estate is now one of Ireland’s most luxurious castle hotels with a top spa. Situated in the Hidden Heartlands, near Ballyfarnon and the Wild Atlantic Way, this four-star castle offers classic rooms and castle-top suites.

Plus, Kilronan Castle is popular as a weekend getaway, featuring 40 acres of woodland with hiking trails and nature walks perfect for the whole family. Enjoy fine dining at Douglas Hyde Restaurant and indulge in a spa day at the world-class facility.

Amenities at Kilronan Castle

  • On-site spa
  • Douglas Hyde Restaurant
  • Casual food in the Drawing room
  • Afternoon tea
  • Woodland walks

Click here to book your stay!

Read More: Why Kiss the Blarney Stone?

12. Lough Rynn Castle (Co. Leitrim)

Photos courtesy of Lough Rynn Castle.

Lough Rynn Castle, the ancestral home of the Clements family, is a more affordable castle hotel. Set on 300 acres with the largest privately owned walled gardens in Ireland, it’s a popular venue for weddings. Located in County Leitrim, it’s a two-hour drive from Dublin and Galway.

You can find all sorts of outdoor activities nearby, like hiking, kayaking, and golf. Or, relax in the castle with fine dining at Sandstone Restaurant, afternoon tea, or drinks at the Dungeon Bar. Don’t miss seeing the John McGahern Library or the Baronial Hall!

Amenities at Lough Rynn Castle Hotel

  • Walled gardens
  •  John McGahern Library
  • Fine dining at Sandstone Restaurant
  • Dungeon Bar
  • Afternoon tea

Click here to book your stay!

13. Clontarf Castle Hotel (Dublin)

Photos courtesy of Clontarf Castle.

Clontarf Castle, one of Dublin’s top castle hotels, is a short 15-minute drive from the city center, providing easy access to attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College. With a history dating back to 1172, the current four-star hotel was built in 1837.

Accommodations include deluxe rooms to luxury suites featuring amenities like pillow-top mattresses and free wifi. The property also offers delicious Irish cuisine at Fahrenheit Restaurant, the Indigo Lounge, and Knights Bar.

Amenities at Clontarf Castle Hotel

  • The two AA Rosette Fahrenheit Restaurant
  • Knights Bar
  • Fitness center

Click here to book your stay!

Read More: Is Scotland or Ireland Better?

14. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel (Co. Galway)

Photos courtesy of Abbeyglen Castle.

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, built in 1832, lies along Connemara’s Sky Road, a prime road trip destination. Just an hour from Galway, it offers a 4-star experience with an award-winning restaurant featuring local seafood, a wellness center, and a lively piano bar with Irish storytelling and song.

Note that the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is technically a manor house hotel instead of an actual castle. Nonetheless, we still think it looks like a fairytale come to life!

Amenities at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel

  • Irish-themed dining
  • Musical evenings at the Piano bar
  •  Treatment Rooms

Click here to book your stay!

15. Ballygally Castle Hotel (Co. Antrim)

Photos courtesy of Ballygally Castle.

Ballygally Castle, dating to 1625, is the only 17th-century building in Northern Ireland still being used as a residence today. With dining options like Afternoon Tea, Sunday Lunch, and dinner, it’s a culinary delight.

Situated in County Antrim, it’s an ideal hub for exploring attractions such as the Causeway Coastal Route, Bushmills Distillery, and Carrickfergus Castle. Renowned for its hauntings, it boasts a “Ghost Room” for visitors, although it’s unavailable for overnight stays.

Amenities at Ballygally Castle

  • Location next to the Irish Sea
  • The Garden Restaurant
  • Afternoon tea
  • Ghost room

Click here to view rates!

16. Belle Isle Estate (Co. Fermanagh)

Front facade of Belle Isle Castle Hotel in Northern Ireland, showing beautiful purple flowers in front of castleDating back to before the 15th century, Belle Isle Estate, Castle & Cottages has something for everyone. Set on a private 400-acre Special Area of Conservation, it offers castle rentals, luxury cottages, and self-catering apartments for weddings, private events, or a weekend getaway.

Explore the rich history and old-world charm of Belle Isle Castle amidst stunning grounds, walking trails, fishing, and boating on Lough Erne. Activities like archery and clay pigeon shooting add adventure to your stay, making it one of Ireland’s finest castle accommodations.

Amenities at Belle Isle Estate

  • Pet-friendly cottages
  • Woodland trails
  • Boats, kayaks, and paddle boards

Click here to book your stay!

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Discover the 20 best castle hotels in Ireland, ranging from five-star luxury accommodations, like Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle, to more budget-friendly options, such as Markree Castle in County Sligo and Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal. We've also put together a map of castle hotels in Ireland so you can easily find them all. | hotel castles in Ireland | Ireland castle stays | castle hotels near dublin

This article was first published in May 2022 and has since been updated.

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Dalia

Monday 16th of May 2022

Did you do a tour or did you rent a car and drove around?

Leah Shoup

Monday 16th of May 2022

We rented car for 8 days!

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