There were almost 3000 castle in Ireland, that makes this country “land of castles and sheep”. But unfortunately or fortunately we are able to visit some of them. Today I would like to talk about about how to rent a castle in Ireland, the things you need to know and the best options based on different budgets. So let’s begin.

What to Keep In Mind When Renting a Castle in Ireland?

Please give attention before you proceed. First thing first you need to decide what is the purpose for you to rent a castle in Ireland? If you think about the best value for money castle then I will suggest you three option.

• Renting a castle for a couple.
• Renting a castle for a small family.
• Renting a big castle for weddings or family get-together.

I will try my best to let you know about all the purposes to rent a castle in Ireland.

There are many thing you need to remember before rent a castle in Ireland. Otherwise your whole plan will be wasted.

Top Castle Rentals in Ireland for Couples or Small Families.

Ireland is home to some of the most breathtaking castles available for rent. If you’re planning a romantic getaway or a small family trip then renting a castle in Ireland offers a unique experience. Below, I’ve listed some of the best castles in Ireland suited for couples and small families, comparing key factors to help you choose the perfect stay.

1. Ballyportry Castle, County Clare

Capacity: Up to 8 guests
Location: Near The Burren, County Clare
Historical Significance: A 15th-century Gaelic tower house
Amenities: Fully furnished with a fireplace and modern kitchen
Event Hosting: No large events, ideal for small gatherings
Price Range: From €250 per night
Duration of Stay: Minimum 2-night stay
Accessibility: Narrow stairs, not wheelchair-friendly
Catering Options: Self-catering, local catering services available
Surrounding Grounds: Scenic views of The Burren and lush countryside
Privacy Level: Complete seclusion in a rural setting
Activities Offered: Hiking, exploring ancient ruins, and visiting The Cliffs of Moher
Child-Friendly Features: Safe grounds for children to play
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed
Guest Reviews: Highly rated for its authenticity and peaceful ambiance

2. Tubbrid Castle, County Kilkenny

Capacity: Up to 6 guests
Location: 10 minutes from Kilkenny City
Historical Significance: A beautifully restored 15th-century castle
Amenities: Heated floors, modern kitchen, and king-size beds
Event Hosting: Suitable for intimate celebrations
Price Range: Around €350 per night
Duration of Stay: Minimum 3-night stay
Accessibility: No elevator, stairs-only access
Catering Options: Fully equipped kitchen, private chef available
Surrounding Grounds: Private gardens and stunning rural views
Privacy Level: Complete privacy with no neighbors
Activities Offered: Cycling, castle tours, and local heritage sites
Child-Friendly Features: Child-safe staircases and spacious rooms
Pet Policy: Pets allowed upon request
Guest Reviews: Praised for its mix of medieval charm and modern comfort

3. Cahercastle, County Galway

Capacity: 2-4 guests
Location: Near Galway City
Historical Significance: A 600-year-old medieval tower
Amenities: Rustic interiors, cozy fireplace, and modern kitchen
Event Hosting: Not suitable for events
Price Range: From €200 per night
Duration of Stay: Minimum 2-night stay
Accessibility: Not suitable for guests with mobility issues
Catering Options: Self-catering with a fully equipped kitchen
Surrounding Grounds: Surrounded by fields and peaceful countryside
Privacy Level: Completely private, no immediate neighbors
Activities Offered: Exploring Connemara, hiking, and visiting Galway pubs
Child-Friendly Features: Limited child-friendly facilities due to steep stairs
Pet Policy: No pets allowed
Guest Reviews: Guests love its authenticity and historical ambiance

4. Wilton Castle, County Wexford

Capacity: 4-8 guests
Location: Overlooking the Boro River in Wexford
Historical Significance: A 19th-century castle restored for modern stays
Amenities: Modern kitchen, spacious suites, and free Wi-Fi
Event Hosting: Small events and intimate weddings allowed
Price Range: From €400 per night
Duration of Stay: Minimum 2-night stay
Accessibility: Some rooms are wheelchair-accessible
Catering Options: Self-catering with optional private chef service
Surrounding Grounds: Gardens, riverside views, and forested areas
Privacy Level: Secluded but close to Wexford town
Activities Offered: Fishing, kayaking, and heritage walks
Child-Friendly Features: High chairs and cribs available
Pet Policy: Pets allowed with prior approval
Guest Reviews: Known for its comfort, scenic location, and rich history

5. Springfield Castle, County Limerick

Capacity: 2-6 guests in the East Tower
Location: County Limerick, near Adare Village
Historical Significance: A 16th-century fortress with modern renovations
Amenities: Heated floors, elegant bedrooms, and free Wi-Fi
Event Hosting: Small weddings and private events allowed
Price Range: From €450 per night
Duration of Stay: Minimum 3-night stay
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible rooms available
Catering Options: Fully equipped kitchen and catering services available
Surrounding Grounds: Woodland walks, gardens, and farmland
Privacy Level: Completely secluded with private access
Activities Offered: Horseback riding, golf, and whiskey tastings
Child-Friendly Features: Playground and spacious indoor areas
Pet Policy: No pets allowed
Guest Reviews: Loved for its peaceful setting and luxurious feel

Top Castle Rentals in Ireland for Large Groups or Events.

If you’re planning a wedding, corporate retreat, or a big family gathering, renting a castle in Ireland is the perfect way to host a memorable event. Below is a list of top castle rentals in Ireland for hosting grand celebrations, along with a comparison of key features to help you choose the best option.

1. Lough Cutra Castle, County Galway

Capacity: Up to 18 guests.
Location: Near Gort, County Galway.
Historical Significance: A 19th-century Gothic castle on a private lake.
Amenities: Large banquet hall, private chef services, and luxury suites.
Event Hosting: Ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, and private parties.
Price Range: From €1,500 per night.
Duration of Stay: Minimum 2-night stay.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible areas available.
Catering Options: On-site catering with gourmet dining options.
Surrounding Grounds: 600 acres of private woodland and a scenic lake.
Privacy Level: Completely private estate.
Activities Offered: Fishing, boating, hiking, and castle tours.
Child-Friendly Features: Family-friendly accommodations and outdoor play areas.
Pet Policy: Pets allowed upon request.
Guest Reviews: Rated highly for its secluded beauty and event hosting services

2. Kilkea Castle, County Kildare

Capacity: Up to 60 guests
Location: One hour from Dublin
Historical Significance: A 12th-century castle with modern renovations
Amenities: Spa, golf course, and multiple event spaces
Event Hosting: Perfect for large weddings and business events
Price Range: From €5,000 per night for exclusive use
Duration of Stay: Minimum 1-night stay for events
Accessibility: Fully accessible with modern facilities
Catering Options: Award-winning dining and custom event menus
Surrounding Grounds: 180 acres of gardens and woodlands
Privacy Level: Exclusive rental available
Activities Offered: Golf, falconry, whiskey tastings, and spa treatments
Child-Friendly Features: Childcare services and kid-friendly activities
Pet Policy: No pets allowed
Guest Reviews: Loved for its mix of historic charm and modern luxury

3. Blackwater Castle, County Cork

Capacity: Up to 23 guests overnight, 120 for events
Location: Fermoy, County Cork
Historical Significance: One of Ireland’s oldest castles, dating back over 1,000 years
Amenities: Banquet hall, medieval dining room, and hot tub
Event Hosting: Suitable for weddings, birthdays, and corporate events
Price Range: From €3,000 per weekend
Duration of Stay: Minimum 2-night stay
Accessibility: Limited wheelchair access due to historic structure
Catering Options: Full catering services available
Surrounding Grounds: 50 acres of woodland and riverfront views
Privacy Level: Complete privacy for exclusive bookings
Activities Offered: Archery, zip-lining, whiskey tastings, and history tours
Child-Friendly Features: Safe play areas and family-friendly rooms
Pet Policy: Pets allowed upon request
Guest Reviews: Highly rated for its historic ambiance and personalized service

4. Bellingham Castle, County Louth

Capacity: Up to 40 guests overnight, 200 for events
Location: Near Dublin and Belfast
Historical Significance: A 17th-century castle with modern upgrades
Amenities: Grand ballroom, elegant lounges, and fine dining restaurant
Event Hosting: Excellent for destination weddings and large gatherings
Price Range: From €7,000 per night for full castle rental
Duration of Stay: Minimum 1-night stay for events
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible facilities available
Catering Options: On-site gourmet catering with event menus
Surrounding Grounds: Private gardens, riverside walks, and courtyards
Privacy Level: Exclusive-use rental available
Activities Offered: Fishing, golfing, and spa treatments
Child-Friendly Features: Babysitting services and children’s menus
Pet Policy: No pets allowed
Guest Reviews: Praised for its exceptional service and luxurious setting

5. Markree Castle, County Sligo

Capacity: Up to 70 guests overnight, 200 for events
Location: Sligo, along the Wild Atlantic Way
Historical Significance: A beautifully restored 17th-century castle
Amenities: Grand dining hall, bar, and luxury suites
Event Hosting: A top choice for large weddings and gala events
Price Range: From €10,000 per night for exclusive rental
Duration of Stay: Minimum 1-night stay
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with modern facilities
Catering Options: Full catering and wedding planning services
Surrounding Grounds: Riverfront views, gardens, and horse stables
Privacy Level: Complete exclusivity available
Activities Offered: Horseback riding, archery, and historical tours
Child-Friendly Features: Spacious family suites and safe outdoor spaces
Pet Policy: No pets allowed
Guest Reviews: Famous for its fairytale setting and exceptional hospitality.

Key Tips for Renting a Castle in Ireland.

• Negotiate for the Best Price: Many castles in Ireland are privately owned and restored, meaning prices can be flexible—especially during off-peak seasons. Instead of booking through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, reach out to the owner directly to secure a better rate.
• Location Isn’t a Top Priority: When staying in a castle, the experience itself is the highlight. You’ll likely spend most of your time enjoying the castle’s ambiance rather than traveling to nearby towns, so proximity to other destinations isn’t as important as you might think.
• Plan Your Meals in Advance: Since most castles are in remote areas, food delivery services are not a reliable option. It’s best to bring groceries and prepare meals on-site, or bring pre-cooked food that can be easily reheated. Some castles restrict kitchen access, so confirm the details with the host before booking.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Dream Castle Stay a Reality

Exploring the magic of castles in Ireland is more than just a vacation—it’s stepping into a storybook filled with history, charm, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat for two or planning a large celebration with family and friends, there’s a castle in Ireland to match every dream and budget.