7 Magical Irish Castles You Can Stay In

If there is one country that needs to be added to your bucket list it is Ireland and staying in one of these magical Irish castles when there is a must. They are dotted around the Emerald Isle; a stay in any of these castle hotels will be a highlight of your trip.

The castles have been renovated and feature golf courses, spas and the finest of dining. The real beauty is driving through the gates and escaping the outside world and entering a realm of pure relaxation.

You’ll realise just how lucky you are to be staying here, as you have a nice pint of Guinness or an Irish whiskey before bed…

Magical Irish Castles to Stay In

1. Ashford Castle – Mayo

Your royal adventure begins when you enter through the grand stone gates of this remarkable 800-year-old castle.

Discover exquisite interiors, delicious cuisine, a passionate team and state-of-the-art spa. There are also lots of activities to keep you entertained while here. The sort of place that you are never going to want to leave.

2. Adare Manor – Limerick

A recent refurbishment has turned Adare Manor into one of the plushest and more luxurious castles in the world. A wonderful place to come and indulge in their activities including a seriously good golf course, falconry and fishing, to name but a few.

Inside, you will find a huge range of top-class dining options and decor that has been thought through to the very last detail to make you feel at home. Add in their magnificent spa and beautifully manicured grounds, and this is like heaven on earth.

3. Dromoland Castle – Clare

Set on a lake, you will fall in love with this Irish castle as soon as you drive up the winding road approaching the castle. The setting is truly spectacular and the grounds are kept in immaculate condition.

You’ll find plenty to do here, from a spectacular golf course to rowing boats on the lake, through to horse riding. What sets the castle apart though, are the staff, who make the evenings truly memorable with great food, hospitality and a wonderful bar where you can enjoy a nightcap.

4. Lough Eske Castle – Donegal

In 1861 Lough Eske Castle, as we know it today, was built on the site of the old Brooke Mansion. It has however, been around since the 14th century.

This is the ideal base from which to explore the stunning local landscapes, beaches and beautiful county of Donegal in general. Staff can suggest day trips and activities in the area. Once back in the castle there is amazing dining and a world-class spa. Fairytale castles in Ireland don’t come much better than this. Sublime.

5. Kinnitty Castle – Offaly

With 37 bedrooms, this castle is intimate and impressive at the same time, whilst being an ideal place to get rest and unwind. Turn off the phone and stroll in the grounds or enjoy some of their world-class food and drinks. All your problems will quickly vanish as soon as you walk in the front door.

The castle is known for its romantic atmosphere, which includes blazing open fireplaces and rooms that are luxurious and wonderfully comfortable.

6. Ballyfin Demesne – Laois

Long admired as one of the most lavish late Georgian houses in Ireland, Ballyfin in County Laois opened on 1 May 2011 as a five star hotel.

They have 20 just bedrooms, which means you have that cosy, intimate feeling when staying here and it never feels to ‘busy’. The staff leave nothing to chance and look after every single small detail so that you can enjoy a blissful experience.

The real joy of the place is being able to enjoy 600 acres of parkland, a 28 acre lake, ancient woods, follies and even grottoes. A complete escape from the outside world.

7. Castle Leslie Estate – Monaghan

Castle Leslie Estate is truly one of the finest luxury estates in Ireland. Following significant investment and a major restoration programme over the last two decades, it is waiting to be discovered by you.

It is an ideal place to base yourself if you love horse riding, with the beautiful grounds to ride through and world-class facilities.

The old house is full of beautiful rooms that are all unique, with history around every single corner.

Want a castle all for yourself? This country castle in Tipperary sleeps 8 guests and is perfect for a fairytale getaway.