10 Best Castle Hotels in Ireland

Located in the North Atlantic Ocean and Northern Europe, Ireland is well-known for its gorgeous castle hotels, which are dotted everywhere on this island nation. Straight out of a fairytale book, the castle hotels in Ireland connect modern-day tourists with the island’s history. Knowing where to stay in Ireland is crucial if you want to enjoy a magical experience while in this country. We have listed the best castles in Ireland that you might want to consider when planning an enchanting vacation, so keep reading to learn more.

10 Best castle hotels in Ireland

Beyond castle hotels in England, there are plenty of castle hotels in Ireland as well. Surrounded by woodland grounds, glittering lakes, labyrinthine gardens, and courtyards, castles in Ireland were once the residences of the rich and powerful. The castles on our list have been transformed into luxury hotels and opulent escapes, where you can have a fairytale getaway in Ireland.

Our top castle hotels Ireland soak up the enchanting ambiance of hundreds of years of the island nation’s history. If you’re itching to live like a queen or king for the day and experience the royal lifestyle, let’s look at what The Emerald Isle offers in terms of accommodation.

1. Wilton Castle

Situated in south-eastern Herefordshire and on the banks of the stunning Boro River, Wilton Castle is one of the best castle hotels in Ireland and a self-catering holiday let. This luxury 12th-century Norman castle is set amidst the beautiful rolling hills of County Wexford, and it’s surrounded by quiet wooded countryside and open parkland.

The earliest references to this hotel date from 1247, and it resembles a magical fairytale place – its interior decoration and facade are stunning. Surrounded by the medieval castle moat, the attractive 2-acre gardens descend to the river bank. Amid these gardens, you’ll find shrubberies, old-fashioned roses, and gravel paths that lead past colorful herbaceous borders.

With a long tradition of hospitality, Winston castle is ideal for families, couples, and groups of friends seeking excellent castle accommodation that offers natural beauty, relaxed comfort, and tranquility. Mount Wolseley (Golf) is 29.8 miles from the hotel, while Altamont Gardens is 23.6 miles away. Waterford Airport is the nearest airport, and it is 34.2 miles from Wilton Castle.

2. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel

Surrounded by the beauty of Connemara’s craggy mountains and set amid 700 acres of woodland, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is one of the finest 18th-century castle hotels Ireland. It trademarks a combination of luxury, comfort, and warm service.

The bar and foyer areas boast flagged doors and open fires. The dining room has long windows overlooking the river, while the walls sport watercolors and photographs that detail a couple of centuries of colorful Ballynahinch history. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel champions the great outdoors and organizes various activities, including horse riding, trout and salmon fishing on the river, woodcock shooting, walking, and cycling.

In a fairytale scenery, this castle hotel overlooks its large salmon fishery just in front of the property. Guests will wake up with breathtaking views of the surrounding estate and explore the rich region chock full of historical sites, including Clifden Castle and Kylemore Abbey. Garden rooms feature outdoor seating overlooking the river.

Ranji Room and The Fisherman’s Pub offer informal eating throughout the day, with an emphasis on finger-licking seafood. The Owenmore Restaurant, on the other hand, caters to more formal dining. The terrace below this restaurant overlooks the river, and it’s an excellent spot for a pre-dinner drink. Do not miss the stunning art collection on the walls.

3. Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg Ireland

Trump International Golf Links & Hotel is located 45 minutes from Shannon Airport, this is among the top-rated Ireland castle hotels that combine a relaxing spa, superb service, spectacular golf links, and stylish rooms. Next to the golf course, the stunning location offers a calm elegance and mesmerizing views of the Atlantic.

Trumps Bar & Restaurant offers delicious food and a relaxed venue to enjoy drinks. You can also have the finest international cuisine at the fine-dining Ocean View restaurant, with each dish being masterfully prepared with the finest local ingredients to make a culinary masterpiece that will tickle your taste buds.

As you step inside the acclaimed White Horses Spa, your world-weary senses will spring to life as soothing and relaxing sounds surround you. Inspired by thousands of years of history and mystery, the interior of White Horses is contemporary and ancient. It features deep soaking whirlpools with clean thermal mineral salts to ease your muscles, sauna, and steam room.

4. Dromoland Castle

Set on hundreds of acres of landscaped grounds, Dromoland Castle is only 7 miles from Shannon airport, and we had to include it in our list of the leading castle hotels in Ireland because it is culturally diverse, historically rich, and beautiful. The bedrooms are elegantly embellished in a French romantic style.

Records reveal the construction of this property began in the 15th century and was completed in 1835. Dromoland is enclosed in a lush green area, and it’s among the favorite castle hotels for many celebrities, including Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Jack Nicholson.

Dinner and breakfast are served in the splendid Earl of Thomond Dining Room overlooking the lake. You’ll find traditional Irish touches added to your breakfast, such as Limerick ham, Boxty potato cake, and homemade soda bread. If you are looking for a more casual dinner and lunch, head to the Fig Tree Restaurant and enjoy your meal in the adjacent rose garden.

You can have an exhilarating royal experience by scheduling archery or clay shooting. Alternatively, you can go for a morning walk in the woods, where you might see ducks, squirrels, and pheasants.

5. Cabra Castle Hotel

Due to its idyllic, quiet location and exquisite range of accommodation, Cabra Castle Hotel is one of the best luxury castle hotels Ireland. Set on a hundred-acre estate of parklands, the hotel has impeccable decoration, with furnishings and period features creating an authentic, old-world charm.

The castle was built in 1760, and it has high ceilings, historic hallways, and grand staircases. You can take pleasant walks in the forest, and there is a golf club and a tennis court a couple of minutes away from Cabra Castle Hotel. You’ll find some rooms in Cabra Castle and others in the converted seventeenth-century courtyard buildings.

Cabra Castle Hotel also has a bar and a restaurant that serves fresh, local food. You can have lunch or dinner while enjoying views over the Dun a Ri Forest Park. The hotel’s terraces and patios have stunning views of the surrounding countryside, which is famous for its lakes and fishing. Best of all, the hotel has a special menu for children.

6. Lough Eske Castle

Lough Eske Castle is one of the leading Ireland castle hotels with a history that dates back to the 14th century. Surrounded by the Tawnawully and Blue Stack Mountains, this hotel is set in 43 acres of beautiful, mature woodlands and gardens.

Featuring dark oak furniture and decked with oil paintings, this Ireland castle hotel has a modern twist and offers polished, elegant rooms with a sleek feel and neutral tones. The massive rooms offer stunning views of its peaceful garden.

A beguiling combination of new and old, the history of the castle is reflected in baronial furnishings, acres of polished wood, and grand sandstone staircases. Its luxurious presence is evident in modern sculptures, smart public areas, efficiency, and smooth professionalism.

You can also try the Spa Solis, looking out onto its gardens; it is modern and sleek, with outdoor and indoor relaxation areas, eight treatment rooms, and an infinity pool. There is a surf school and golf club within a short drive, and Pretty Donegal Town is a 10-minute drive. Fishing is another great activity you can enjoy here, as the lake is on your doorstep.

7. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is dating back to 1832, this is one of the best castle hotels in Ireland that has a perfect location for visitors exploring the Connemara region, which is rich in Irish culture. Nestled in the romantic backdrop of Twelve Bens mountains, guests will enjoy beautiful views overlooking Clifden Bay.

The rooms are full of character and offer a lovely view of the nature around the castle and the garden. In addition to a lively Irish bar and fingering-licking food, Abbeyglen Castle Hotel and region offer an immense range of activities to ensure you enjoy your stay. These include a wellness center, lounge for afternoon tea, snooker table, and tennis court.

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel has a restaurant that features traditional gourmet foods showcasing local seafood and produce. Clifden, a bustling little coastal town, is a 6-minute walk from this castle. You can spend your day here shopping, people-watching, and sipping Irish beverages.

There is also a 4-mile circular historical walk around the hotel and numerous walk paths around the Twelve Pins. Additionally, bikes are available for rent.

8. Lough Rynn Castle

Once the home of the legendary Lord Leitrim and the Clements family, Lough Rynn Castle is arguably one of the best castle hotels Ireland. The hotel is surrounded by more than 300 acres of mesmerizing scenery and ancient forests.

With a unique marriage of modern opulence and old-world grace, taking a walk around this gorgeous and historic property feels like walking into the past. The castle has retained its historic splendor with antique furnishings, wood paneling, open fires, and decorative stone and glass work.

Outside the hotel, you will find hundreds of acres of beautiful vistas, walled gardens, and plenty of secluded areas for those who want to be one with nature. Inside this Irish castle hotel, you will find the award-winning Sandstone Restaurant and other dining options where you can enjoy mouthwatering dishes with fresh produce from the on-site garden.

Sandstone Restaurant offers a series of à la carte and table d’hôte menus. Lough Rynn Castle also serves its guests afternoon tea in their reception lounge. Rooms are decorated with rich, luxurious fabrics and preserved original features.

9. Kilkea Castle

With a history that dates back to 1180, Kilkea Castle is one of the most affordable Ireland castle hotels that offers magnificent views and exceptional service. Set on a 180-acre estate, the property includes an 18-hole championship golf course, forests, and gardens.

Located in County Kildare, Kilkea Castle offers a wide array of on-site activities, including equestrian pursuits, fishing, archery, and shooting. You’ll find off-road vehicles and adventures, tennis courts, and a falconry program.

The hotel allows you to participate in a curated and fun wellness experience with personal trainers and a special menu. The Kilkea’s ELEMIS-branded spa is designed to create a mindful and relaxing environment.

The hotel’s culinary team gets the food it offers from ethical and local sources, and they have an emphasis on fresh and seasonal products. The dining options at Kilkea Castle include en-suite dining and eating at Restaurant 1180, the hotel dining room. You’ll also find two additional restaurants at the golf course clubhouse where you can have lunch and dinner.

10. Mount Juliet Estate, Autograph Collection

Mount Juliet Estate is one of the best castle hotels in Ireland because it has splendid Georgian architecture, a compelling history, and luxurious accommodations and facilities. Set amid 500 acres of green Kilkenny countryside, the hotel is only a ten-minute drive to the M and is situated in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny,

Dating back to 1757, the estate has two residences: the chic, sophisticated Hunters Yard and the historic Georgian Manor House. There are also two restaurants on Mount Juliet Estate. Located in Hunters Yard, the Hound Restaurant has a relaxed setting and offers quality dining. The Michelin-starred Lady Helen offers fine dining and is situated in Manor House.

The original 18th-century Manor House, along with its glittering chandeliers, stucco ceilings, and views over the river Nore, was marvelously restored, and now offers the last word in architectural harmony and harmony. Facilities on this estate include archery, an 18-hole golf course, a swimming pool, table tennis, and walking trails.

Wrapping up the best castle hotels in Ireland

Now that we have seen the best castle hotels Ireland to have a fairytale getaway, you can plan an enchanting vacation. If you’re fantasizing about having an Irish castle experience, booking accommodation at any of these hotels will make you feel like royalty. These hotels are renowned for their idyllic surroundings and warm hospitality. Steep yourself in Irish history while enjoying the one-of-a-kind luxury of a castle hotel stay during your next vacation in Ireland.