Dotted all around Ireland, castles immediately evoke magic. They’re an unmissable and strong structural link with the past, conjuring up memories of a time when locations and families were located and defined by their castles or big houses. They are a testament to a rich history but are also very much alive in the present. Are you looking for romance? Then why not stay in an Irish castle?

Here are five fabulous castles to choose from that will bring the past to life...


Dromoland Castle, County Clare
This majestic castle, which is perfect starting point for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, was once the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, who were the Kings of Thomond and whose lineage goes back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, the only High King of Ireland. Dromoland Castle is a magical hotel to stay in, with 400 acres to explore and a beautiful lake setting.


Lough Cutra Castle, County Galway
This castle, on Ireland’s Western Seaboard in Gort, County Galway is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets and its history can be traced as far back as 866AD. It has been said that Saint Patrick even passed Lough Cutra on his travels! For history lovers, the immediate grounds of the 600 acre estate are rich in remnants of churches and cells and monasteries and there are islands in the surrounding lake containing the remnants of stone altars. This self-catering private family home can accommodate up to 17 guests in 9 luxurious bedrooms with an additional 23 in the courtyard so that 40 guests can be accommodated.


Lough Rynn Castle Hotel, County Leitrim
Leitrim is often overlooked as a tourist destination in Ireland and this is a mistake as it is a real undiscovered gem. Covering 300 acres with a beautifully scenic shoreline, Lough Rynn Castle Estate is a beautiful Victorian Manor that was once the ancestral home of Lord Leitrim and his family, the Clements. Now a member of the Hanly Castle Hotel Group, Lough Rynn Castle and Gardens has been brought back to life by a dedicated father and son team and is a wonderful destination with a history to match.


Ashford Castle. County Mayo
The five-star Ashford Castle in Cong, County Mayo is one of Ireland’s best known castles and is now part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection. It sits majestically in a beautiful estate on the picturesque shores of Lough Corrib and is one of the most romantic destinations in the country. It has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment and the 83 rooms are now some of the best in the world, combining the original features with the latest modern luxuries.


Castle Leslie, County Monaghan
Castle Leslie in County Monaghan represents the very best of what Ireland has to offer as it’s like no other destination when it comes to stories and character and personality. The castle is in the Scottish Baronial Style and the estate has three beautiful lakes. For romance, history and a sense of fun, this 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside offers the ultimate Irish rural escape. What’s most special about this is that the estate is one of the last great Irish castle estates still in the hands of its founding family.

Go back in time and treat yourself to a stay in an Irish castle for an experience like no other!