Ireland does fairy tales and history like no other place. And what’s better than visiting a castle? Actually staying in one! Here are the best Irish Castle Hotels to stay: where the walls have stories, the views are straight out of a painting, and the breakfasts are probably fit for a king.
Perfect if you’re looking for a romantic Ireland castle wedding spot, a dreamy getaway, or just the perfect mix of old-world charm and modern luxury, there’s a castle hotel in Ireland with your name on it.
In this post I share 12 Ireland castle hotels that you’ll never want to leave: from grand estates with Michelin-star dining to hidden gems with roaring fireplaces – Let’s check them out!
TRAVELING TO IRELAND SOON?
Here are my recommended travel resources:
- Book flights: Expedia & Kayak
- Hotels & Accomodation: Booking.com, Hotels & VRBO
- Tours & Activities: GetYorGuide
- Car Rentals: Booking.com & Expedia
- Interactive Wild Atlantic Way Guide Maps
- Travel Essentials: Ireland Packing List
11 Stunning Castle Hotels in Ireland for an Unforgettable Stay
Ireland has no shortage of historic castle hotels, but these 12 stand out for their charm, history, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
Ashford Castle
If you’re going to stay in a castle in Ireland, you might as well go all out. Ashford Castle is the definition of luxury, with five-star service, jaw-dropping lake views, and a history that goes back over 800 years.
Once home to the Guinness family (yes, that Guinness), this castle-turned-hotel has everything: opulent rooms, a world-class spa, and even falconry lessons if you want to lean into the whole “royalty for a day” vibe.
You can also stay at The Lodge at Ashford Castle.
Perfect for: Honeymooners, history lovers, and anyone who wants a castle stay that feels straight out of a movie.
Dromoland Castle
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a grand, storybook castle, Dromoland delivers.
Sweeping staircases, antique-filled rooms, and perfectly manicured gardens set the scene, while the service makes you feel like royalty.
The estate is massive, with wooded trails, a championship golf course, and a walled garden perfect for an afternoon stroll. Inside, you’ll find the old-world charm with modern comforts—think four-poster beds and candlelit dinners in a dining room that feels straight out of a period drama.
Perfect for: A romantic getaway, a fairy-tale Ireland castle wedding, or anyone who wants to sip afternoon tea in a grand drawing room like a duchess.
Castle Leslie Estate
If you love castles but prefer cozy charm over stiff formality, Castle Leslie Estate is your kind of place.
Family-owned for generations, this estate feels more like a grand country home than a hotel, with warm hospitality, antique-filled rooms, and a history packed with fascinating stories.
Set on 1,000 acres of rolling countryside, it’s a dream for laid-back travelers who love lake views, woodland walks, and long, lazy breakfasts in a sunlit dining room.
No two rooms are the same—some have four-poster beds, clawfoot tubs, or secret nooks that make you feel like you’re in an old novel.
Perfect for: A quiet retreat, a romantic weekend, or anyone who wants a castle stay that feels intimate and full of character.
Kilkea Castle
Dating back to the 12th century, Kilkea Castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland—and it still manages to feel like a well-kept secret. Tucked away in the Kildare countryside, this fairy-tale fortress mixes medieval charm with modern luxury.
Inside, you’ll find stone walls, grand fireplaces, and elegant rooms that blend history with comfort. Outside, there’s an 18-hole golf course, beautiful gardens, and even falconry experiences if you want to channel your inner knight or noble.
Perfect for: History lovers, couples, and anyone looking for a castle hotel in Ireland that feels both grand and welcoming.
Waterford Castle
If staying in a castle isn’t magical enough, how about one on its own private island? Waterford Castle sits on a 310-acre island in the River Suir, and the only way to get there is by a short (and scenic) ferry ride.
Once you arrive, you’ll feel the luxury, seclusion, and old-world charm. The castle’s interiors are filled with rich wood paneling, antique furniture, and grand fireplaces that make you want to curl up with a whiskey.
Outside, the grounds offer woodland trails, a top-tier golf course, and plenty of quiet peaceful surroundings.
Perfect for: A romantic escape, a special occasion, or anyone who wants a castle stay with extra exclusivity and charm.
Ballynahinch Castle
Nestled in the heart of Connemara, Ballynahinch Castle is a riverside retreat with stunning scenery, warm hospitality, and an effortless mix of luxury and comfort.
The setting is straight out of a painting—forests, mountains, and a salmon-filled river right at your doorstep.
Inside, the castle feels welcoming and cozy, with crackling fireplaces, antique furnishings, and big windows. It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day exploring the wild landscapes and the evening with a drink by the fire.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, couples, and anyone who wants a peaceful castle escape surrounded by breathtaking Irish scenery.
Clontarf Castle
For a castle stay without venturing too far from Dublin, Clontarf Castle is the perfect pick.
This historic fortress-turned-boutique hotel blends medieval charm with sleek, modern touches, making it one of the most unique castle hotels in Ireland.
The stone towers and grand entrance set the scene, but inside, you’ll find contemporary luxury: rich velvet furnishings, lighting and a cozy yet stylish vibe. Plus, with Dublin just a short drive away, you get the best of both worlds—a castle retreat with easy access to the city’s pubs, shops, and sights.
Perfect for: Travelers who want history with modern comforts, a romantic getaway, or a castle stay close to Dublin.
Adare Manor
If you’re after pure, over-the-top luxury, Adare Manor is the place. This stunning neo-Gothic estate feels more like a palace than a hotel, with grand chandeliers, and some of the most beautifully designed rooms in Ireland.
Everything here is next level—Michelin-star dining, a world-class golf course, and a spa that feels like a retreat within a retreat. The surrounding parkland and gardens add to the fairy-tale setting, making it an incredible spot for a special occasion or even an Ireland castle wedding.
Perfect for: A once-in-a-lifetime luxury stay, honeymoon, or an unforgettable castle experience with five-star service.
Lough Eske Castle
Tucked away in the rugged beauty of County Donegal, Lough Eske Castle is a mix of historic charm and modern luxury.
Sitting on the shores of Lough Eske and surrounded by forests, this castle hotel feels like a secluded hideaway—but with all the comforts of a five-star stay.
If you love the outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do—hiking trails, scenic drives, and lake views that change with the light.
Perfect for: A peaceful escape, an adventure-filled getaway, or anyone who wants a castle stay surrounded by Ireland’s natural beauty.
Ballyseede Castle
For a castle stay that feels straight out of a storybook, Ballyseede Castle has it all—gorgeous architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and just the right amount of mystery.
This historic castle in County Kerry is one of the most charming family-run castle hotels in Ireland, known for its warm atmosphere and rich history.
And if you love a good ghost story, Ballyseede has plenty—though its resident spirit is said to be more friendly than frightening.
Perfect for: A quiet retreat, a unique stay full of history, or anyone who wants a castle hotel in Ireland with charm and character.
Ballygally Castle
Ballygally Castle is one of the few castle hotels in Ireland that sit right by the sea. The views? Incredible. The history? Even better. This 17th-century castle has seen centuries of stories—and maybe a ghost or two.
It’s a small castle minutes from the Causeway Coastal Route, the Giant’s Causeway, and Game of Thrones filming locations. Or just stay in, sip a drink by the fire, and soak up the castle’s unique atmosphere.
Perfect for: History buffs, road-trippers, and anyone who wants a castle stay with ocean views.
How to Choose the Best Ireland Castle Hotel for You
With so many castle hotel options in Ireland, choosing the right one depends on what kind of stay you’re looking for.
I don’t think you could go wrong in any of these places but here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- For history lovers: Ashford Castle, Kilkea Castle, Ballyseede Castle
- For full-on luxury: Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle, Waterford Castle
- For a cozy, charming escape: Castle Leslie Estate, Ballynahinch Castle
- For water views: Ballygally Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, Waterford Castle
- For outdoor adventures: Lough Eske Castle, Ballynahinch Castle
- For a romantic getaway or Ireland castle wedding: Ashford Castle, Dromoland Castle, Adare Manor
No matter which one you choose, staying in a castle hotel in Ireland is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Ireland Castles For A Fairy Tale Stay
Staying in a castle hotel in Ireland is like stepping into history, soaking up incredible scenery, and experiencing a side of Ireland that feels straight out of a fairy tale.
From grand estates to hidden gems by the sea, there’s a castle hotel for every kind of traveler.
So go ahead—book that stay, pack your coziest sweater, and get ready for an unforgettable Irish adventure.
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