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Best historic castles to stay in Ireland

Discover a curated selection of Ireland's most enchanting historic castles offering luxurious overnight stays. This guide explores unique accommodations where history meets modern comfort, perfect for a romantic getaway or a family adventure. From medieval strongholds to elegant manor houses, each castle provides an unforgettable experience with its own story and charm. Find the ideal spot to immerse yourself in Irish heritage while enjoying world-class amenities. Prepare to live out a fairytale in the heart of the Emerald Isle.

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  1. 1

    Cabra Castle (Kingscourt, Co. Cavan)

    53 Global Votes
    • Boasts a proud history dating back to 1760

      (+4)

    Cabra Castle provides a grand and historic setting with extensive grounds and activities, making it a popular choice for a castle stay. Its proud history dates back many centuries, offering a truly immersive experience.

  2. 2

    Ashford Castle (Cong, Co. Mayo)

    52 Global Votes
    • Origins dating back to the 13th century

      (+4)

    Ashford Castle is renowned as the pinnacle of luxury castle accommodation in Ireland, offering unparalleled opulence and five-star comfort. Its extensive refurbishment blends 800 years of history with modern amenities, providing an unforgettable experience.

  3. 3

    Lough Eske Castle (Donegal Town, Co. Donegal)

    51 Global Votes
    • Award-winning castle hotel

      (+4)

    Regarded as one of the more authentic Irish castle hotels, Lough Eske Castle offers a fairytale experience in a picturesque and tranquil setting. Its impressive facades and authentic interiors make it ideal for a romantic getaway.

  4. 4

    Dromoland Castle (Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare)

    46 Global Votes
    • Feels like a real castle

      (+4)

    This 16th-century castle, ancestral home of the O'Brien clan, offers a magical and luxurious stay. It seamlessly blends centuries of history with modern five-star amenities, allowing guests to experience living like landed gentry.

  5. 5

    Waterford Castle (Waterford, Co. Waterford)

    42 Global Votes
    • Historic 16th Century luxury castle hotel

      (+4)

    Uniquely situated on its own 310-acre private island, Waterford Castle offers unparalleled seclusion and tranquillity. This 16th-century castle provides a true sense of escape within a historic setting, accessible only by private ferry.

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  7. 6

    Ballyseede Castle (Tralee, Co. Kerry)

    41 Global Votes
    • Premier hotel and wedding venue

      (+4)

    As Ireland's only castle hotel in County Kerry, Ballyseede Castle blends modern comforts with historical grandeur. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the southwest of Ireland, offering family-friendly and authentic Irish charm.

  8. 7

    Castle Leslie Estate (Glaslough, Co. Monaghan)

    26 Global Votes
    • Outstanding food

      (+4)

    Castle Leslie Estate provides a unique and luxurious country estate experience with a rich history and diverse activities. It offers a variety of accommodation options, including the castle itself, lodge, and self-catering options.

  9. 8

    Kilkea Castle (Castledermot, Co. Kildare)

    25 Global Votes
    • One of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland

      (+4)

    Kilkea Castle provides a unique experience of staying in a truly ancient castle, one of the oldest inhabited in Ireland, thoughtfully modernized. It blends 12th-century history with 21st-century amenities, offering diverse accommodation options.

  10. 9

    Barberstown Castle (Straffan, Co. Kildare)

    20 Global Votes
    • Four-Star Historic 13th Century Castle

      (+4)

    Barberstown Castle offers a convenient and highly-rated castle stay close to Dublin, blending medieval and later historic periods. With 1000 years of Irish history, it provides a unique and accessible historical experience.

  11. 10

    Kinnitty Castle Hotel (Kinnitty, Co. Offaly)

    20 Global Votes
    • Authentic castle experience

      (+4)

    Kinnitty Castle Hotel is known for its stunning gothic revival architecture and picturesque setting in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. It offers luxurious rooms and fine dining, providing a truly romantic and historic escape.

  12. 11

    Ballynahinch Castle (Recess, Co. Galway)

    11 Global Votes
    • One of Ireland's finest luxury castle hotels

      (+4)

    Ballynahinch Castle is highly regarded for its stunning Connemara location and authentic Irish hospitality. It offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty within a private 700-acre estate.

  13. 12

    Springfield Castle (Drumcollogher, Co. Limerick)

    3 Global Votes
    • Accommodates up to 25 guests

      (+4)

    Springfield Castle is distinguished by its ability to maintain its authentic medieval character while providing contemporary comfort. It offers an intimate and genuinely Irish experience, balancing historical integrity with modern amenities.

  14. 13

    Lough Rynn Castle (Mohill, Co. Leitrim)

    0 Global Votes
    • Impressive Victorian manor

      (+4)

    Lough Rynn Castle offers an authentic Irish castle experience with a blend of historical charm and modern luxury. It is set in idyllic grounds on the shores of Lough Rynn, providing a secluded and elegant stay.

  15. 14

    Clontarf Castle (Dublin 3)

    0 Global Votes
    • Luxury 4-star unique 12th-century castle hotel

      (+4)

    Clontarf Castle is one of only two castle hotels within Dublin city, offering a unique luxury city hotel experience with a historic twist. It blends a 12th-century site with 18th-century manor and 21st-century hotel amenities.