Dream of staying in an Irish castle? | Private Golf Tours Ireland

The heat of the roaring fire greets you at the door as you enter the castle. The smell of peat fills your lungs and you feel a sense of calm. The stone on the wall is much older than you and has seen more than you ever will in your lifetime. You look out the window and you see the green patchwork hills. You feel at home.

Staying in a castle while in Ireland is a dream for many visitors. Each castle has a unique story filled with rich history that is waiting to be told. Some will be of sadness and war and others will be of generations of families who created memories in the same walls where you will walk.

Travel back in time and make those dreams a reality by staying in one our top favourite castle hotels in Ireland.

Dromoland Castle, Co Clare

Dromoland Castle’s rich history starts with the O’Brien Family, descendants of Brian Boru, the ancient High King of Ireland. The castle was home to the O’Brien Family for eight generations. As you approach the castle from the long drive, the grand façade of the castle appears and takes you back in time. Having been welcoming guests since the 15th century, Dromoland Castle offers the best combination of lavish décor and historic grandeur supported by the finest modern comforts.

Set over 450 acres of land, Dromoland Castle’s stunning landscape encompasses the best of the Irish countryside. On site, guests can enjoy the views of the world champion 18-hole golf course or tee off for a round. Other onsite activities include archery, falconry, and a spa. There are two incredible restaurants to choose from, a cocktail bar, and afternoon tea. The location of Dromoland Castle is ideal for those looking to explore the Western part of the country or flying to/from Shannon Airport.

Ashford Castle, Co Mayo

Set in the outskirts of Cong village overlooking Lough Corrib is the magnificent Ashford Castle. The long-extended history of Ashford Castle is what adds character to this hotel and makes it so unique. Founded in the 1200s by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family, the castle was later bought by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness of the famous Guinness family and Brewery. Many owners later, today the hotel is owned by the Red Carnation Hotel Group and underwent an extension refurbishment in 2015.

Ashford Caste takes pride in their 5-star customer service and ability to make guests feel as if they are home when they step through the door. The hotel has something for everyone from romantic breaks, family stays, and numerous estate activities. Over the years, Ashford has hosted many famous people ranging from US presidents, famous actors, actresses and musicians. For those looking for the ultimate 5-star castle stay in Ireland, Ashford Castle is not to be missed.

Lough Eske Castle, Co Donegal

In one of the less frequently visited counties, the 5-star Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal sits on the shores of the picturesque Lough Eske. Located about 5 miles from Donegal Town, this award winning castle hotel displays the perfect combination of luxury, peace and friendly hospitality.

Lough Eske Castle was first built in 1474. Some of the original stone dates back to 1621 and remains at the property. The castle was once the seat for a powerful 14th century Donegal clan, the O’Donnells.

This luxury lakeside castle offers a mix of contemporary and classical country elegance. The Solis Spa and pool is uniquely located in an original Victorian Glass House exhibiting a sense of tranquility. The castle is ideally located for exploring the rugged and natural landscape of Donegal. The estate also offers fishing, cooking demonstrations and a history walk every morning.

Castle Leslie, Co Monaghan

Visitors staying in Castle Leslie will feel as though they have been transported back in time. The castle experience is unique as you will not find televisions, radios, or minibars in any of the castle bedrooms. There are 20 original bedrooms that are individually decorated. No two rooms are the same, each with their own riveting story attached to it. The authentic interiors and old-style hospitality are what makes Castle Leslie stand out from the rest.

Castle Leslie offers a unique position among other castle hotels in Ireland. The castle is one of the last great Irish Castle estates still in the hands of its founding family. Since the 1600s, the Leslie Family have lived on the Estate. They have welcomed everyone from politicians, poets and well-known celebrities.

The Estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure. Set on one Ireland’s best-reserved lake, it is an ideal location for fishing. Other on-site activities include horseback riding, walking trails and the Victorian Treatment Rooms.

Ballyseede Castle, Co Kerry

As the only castle hotel in County Kerry, Ballyseede Castle is an ideal location for those wishing to tour the highlights of the south such as Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry.

In the late 16th century, the rebellious Earls of Desmonds used the castle as their base. After refusing to swear allegiance to the crown, this resulted in the Desmond Wars which took place over 300 years. The Castle was then confiscated and handed over to Robert Blennerhassett for the nominal rent of a red rose, which had to be presented each year on Midsummer’s Day. 

Ballyseede Castle sits on 30 acres of native woodland. The hotel has some quirky traits such as the resident Irish Wolfhounds, Einstein and Mr. Higgins, who entertain guests in the formal gardens. For the supernatural believers, a ghost named Hilda is rumoured to haunt the castle’s basement and every year on March 24th she makes her presence known. This family-run hotel presents old world excellence with a relaxed atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome.

Adare Manor, Co Limerick

Located just outside Ireland’s prettiest village is the luxurious Adare Manor. This neo-gothic Manor style hotel sits on the banks of the River Maigue in County Limerick. Once owned by the Dunraven Family, the construction of Adare Manor came at an opportune time for the area. The building provided labour for the surrounding villagers during the potato famine that devastated the country during the mid-19th century.

The manor sits on 840 acres of land which is the same size as Central Park in New York City. The hotel recently went through a multimillion euro refurbishment making it one of the most luxurious places to stay in Ireland.

The Oak Room, the fine dining restaurant in the hotel, is Limerick’s only Michelin Star restaurant. The golf course, designed by Tom Fazio, will host the Ryder Cup 2026. Aside from these prestigious accolades, Adare Manor offers a friendly, elegant and top notch stay you will not forget.