With a rich history of Kings, Lords and Noblemen in Ireland, it is not surprising that there are numerous castles dotted throughout Ireland’s rugged terrain.
These real life castles sit stoically on majestic hill top perches or near river bends, as their royal inhabitants once did upon the now-empty thrones. A large percentage of these castles have been converted to hotels-keeping most of their original features- and therefore, offer a quintessential regal experience. Hotels Ireland has decided to explore the phenomenon of sleeping in your very own castle.
The Queens visit to Ireland this month has raised the question of where she will stay whilst on Irish soil. Some have advocated that she stay in a B&B or cheap hotel, whilst others believe that being royalty permits a stay in five star opulence. If only the Queen looked at hotelsireland.com fantastic castle breaks she would realize that she can get great deals without having to sell the crown jewels 
.
Now you can lay claim to the crown, experiencing daily life as a real Prince or Princess! Blur the line between fantasy and reality on your next vacation- after all you may well be a Princess in waiting- Prince Harry is still single;)
We have decided to make things easy for you and list our top 3 Irish Castle stays in preparation for your coronation as King and Queen of Ireland.
Ashford Castle- Mayo
The Captivating 5 Star Ashford Castle Hotel
Ashford Castle is 5 star luxury in the beautiful setting of Cong, Co. Mayo on the shoreline of Lough Corrib. Dating back to 1228 and once the estate of the Guinness Family, the hotel first opened its doors to the public as a hotel in 1939. Stayed in by a slew of world renowned celebrities and host to Presidents and Kings alike, Ashford Castle epitomises graceful luxury. Book a spa treatment or fly a hawk in the school of falconry, take a picnic in the walled garden or catch wild trout or salmon here; there is something for everyone to do on the castles extensive grounds. Time stands still; luxury beckons and royal personal service will ensure a reviving and enriching stay.
Check out this short clip showing the majestic beauty of the castle
Clontarf Castle-Dublin
The Majestic Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin
Clontarf has a rich history, with the iconic battle of Clontarf taking place in 1014 between the legendary high king of Ireland Brian Boru and his soldiers and the notorious Viking invaders of the time. It resulted in a victory for Brian Boru, however he was murdered the very same night by a small group of Vikings, who were retreating from the battle through a wooded area, and came across his guarded tent.
In 1172 Clontarf Castle was erected by Hugh De Lacy as an inner circle of defence sites protecting Dublin. The castle no longer serves the purpose of fortified protection from invaders (after all we are now captives of the EU/IMF;)) but it does make for a great place to spend a night or two away. Think indulgent thoughts as you survey Clontarf Castle’s 800 years of Irish history and snuggle up in its four star newly renovated bedrooms, bars and exquisite restaurants.
For a narrated history on Clontarf Castle Hotel, Click on
Ballynahinch Castle- Mayo
The stunning Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
If you want to experience being the ruler of a 400 acre estate then Ballynahinch Castle in Galway is the hotel for you. The castle has several hundred years’ history and its rich past is imbedded in every area of the castle. Ballynahinch Castle is set in the heart of Connemara and stands proud and majestic overlooking the famous Ballynahinch River. The Castle has been inextricably interwoven in to the history of Connemara and its people for many centuries. Open log fires glow in the reception rooms and all your needs will be attended to, soft restful colour schemes harmonize with the natural charm of the surroundings in the tastefully decorated bedrooms. It is indeed a sight to behold and you can take turns taking pictures of each other looking out the window and unto the acres for dramatic “I am the King (or Queen)!”effect and give a Colin Firth performance king’s speech that will be sure to win you an Academy Award .
Check out the splendour of Ballynahinch Castle, Galway’s Estate
To book a stay in one of these Castle Hotels or if you are in need of a great selection, Click here for Hotels Ireland Castle Breaks and begin the royal dream if only for a weekend.
Can you set me up with a coordinator of castle or BB stays throughout Ireland during September? I am an airline Base Manager. Thank you
Dear Britt.
Initially, you should get in touch with our reservations department.
You can send an email to hotels@hotelsireland.com or give the girls in reservations a ring on +353 1 293 3040.