From ancient strongholds to lavish abbeys transformed into boutique hotels, Ireland is dotted with castles pulled straight from a fairytale. Whether you’re planning a wedding or a romantic retreat, these are some of the most luxurious castle venues in the country.
Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort
Spanning a 310-acre private island accessible only by ferry, Waterford Castle grants a truly secluded experience for your wedding. A jewel in Ireland's Ancient East, this venue dates back to the early 16th century and is surrounded by lush woodland and the River Suir, giving you a sense of the 800 years of love stories and memories held within its timeless walls.
Exchange vows in the sun-drenched conservatory or in front of the Great Hall's stunning open fireplace, which proudly boasts the Fitzgerald Coat of Arms Crest. For your reception, enjoy Award-winning fine dining in the Castle's Munster Room restaurant or immerse yourself in the lush surroundings and erect a marquee on the extensive Croquet Lawn.
The antiques, period décor, and delicate details throughout the castle will captivate your imagination. With only 19 bedrooms and event exclusivity, they offer unparalleled intimacy for you and your guests and for larger parties, you can avail of the 45 three and four-bedroom self-catering lodges, just a short walk from the festivities.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Ballinakill, Co. Waterford.
Ashford Castle
The magnificent Ashford Castle has stood sentinel on the shores of Lough Corrib for over 800 years. Inside, the castle’s opulent interiors feature grand reception rooms, crystal chandeliers, and roaring fireplaces. Known worldwide for its exceptional service, the castle offers couples an unforgettable experience, striking a perfect balance of grandeur and romance.
There are few reception spaces as beautiful as the elegant Connaught Room, with its high windows and gilded accents, perfect for an intimate celebration of up to 40 guests. For larger gatherings, the illustrious George V Dining Room grants a truly regal setting, with rich panelled walls and twinkling Waterford Crystal chandeliers, accommodating up to 160 guests.
Turn your wedding into a weekend event and treat your guests to falconry and horse riding, or steal away to the secluded Boathouse with your new spouse and enjoy your first day as a married couple with a loughside brunch served by your personal 24-hour butler.
Capacity: Up to 160 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Cong, Co. Mayo.
Ballynahinch Castle
One of Ireland’s finest luxury castle hotels, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, lies at the heart of a 700-acre estate of rivers, woodlands, and walking trails. Famed for its scenic surroundings, the castle overlooks its famous salmon fishery with the stunning 12 Bens mountain range as a backdrop.
Weddings at Ballynahinch are fully bespoke, with the venue's signature house party vibe. Host your ceremony in the Walled Garden, then move inside to the Owenmore Restaurant and feast your eyes on the beautiful collection of art that adorns the walls. Your guests can relax from the moment they arrive at the hotel, with the entire weekend's celebrations taking place on the grounds of the estate.
The hotel can accommodate up to 110 guests, together with the self-catering Lettery Lodge, Owenmore Cottage and 48 beautifully appointed suites and rooms in the original house.
Capacity: Up to 140 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Recess, Co. Galway.
Luttrellstown Castle Resort
Just 20 minutes from Dublin city, Luttrellstown Castle is the perfect mix of convenience and seclusion. Located on a private 560-acre estate, it features grand reception rooms, meticulously manicured gardens, and dazzling outdoor spaces ideal for ceremonies.
With exclusive hire, couples can choose from enchanting spaces to say “I do,” from the vaulted Gothic Hall to the elegant Kentian Room with its tapestries and grand fireplace. Receptions can be hosted in the ornate Van Stry Ballroom or outdoors beneath a luxury marquee on the manicured lawns.
With twenty uniquely styled bedrooms in the castle and five in the nearby Gardener's Cottage, each room combines 15th-century elegance with modern luxury, offering four-poster beds, marble bathtubs, antique furnishings, and serene garden views.
Capacity: Up to 180 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Castleknock, Co. Dublin.
Markree Castle
Markree Castle provides a truly enchanting setting, with 500 acres of rolling parkland and mature woodland along the Wild Atlantic Way. This 17th-century castle has been beautifully restored, creating an elegant mix of past and present.
Available for exclusive hire, the venue showcases a variety of ceremony settings, from the Chapel to the intimate Grand Hall, a romantic terrace, or a magical woodland for outdoor vows. Couples and guests enjoy the castle as their own, with a drinks reception by the fire, a five-course banquet in the elegant dining rooms, and dancing in the entertainment suite with a Gin and Whiskey bar, creating a true house party in a castle.
After the celebrations, couples can wander hand-in-hand along the castle’s flagstoned corridors and pause at the indoor wishing well. The three-room wedding apartment provides a luxurious retreat, featuring a sitting room, in-room bar, king-size bed, and his-and-hers bathroom.
Capacity: Up to 210 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Collooney, Co. Sligo.
Castle Leslie Estate
Still in the hands of its founding family since the mid-17th Century, Castle Leslie Estate is an unbelievably magical setting for your wedding day. Surrounded by lakes, woodlands, and rolling parkland, the venue is the perfect choice for a couple seeking a charming rural destination, yet still within an hour of Ireland's major cities.
The Castle welcomes intimate weddings for up to 70 guests, while The Pavilion, overlooking serene Glaslough Lake, is ideal for larger gatherings of up to 260 guests. By night, the path to the Pavilion is beautifully lit with flaming torches, adding a magical touch to the celebration.
On the grounds of the Estate, there is a variety of accommodation to suit every taste, from the grandeur of The Castle, with its 21 individually styled bedrooms and bathrooms, including the exquisite two-storey “West Wing” suite, to the boutique charm of The Lodge and the relaxed self-catering comfort of The Old Stable Mews.
Capacity: Up to 260 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Glaslough, Co. Monaghan.
Cabra Castle
With the magnificent backdrop of Dún a Rí Forest Park, Cabra Castle is one of the best-known castle wedding venues in Ireland, and for very good reason! A building of intrinsic historical and architectural significance, the castle was constructed in 1760 and has hosted almost 6,500 wedding celebrations in its 265 years, with more to come.
The Granary boasts an exclusive, light-filled space for Civil, Spiritualist, or Humanist ceremonies, while the castle’s original ballroom and Gallerie Veranda provide elegant settings for larger gatherings. Outdoor options include the Castle Lawns or a more intimate celebration beneath the Grand Old Oak Tree.
Couples can choose between two honeymoon suites at Cabra Castle. The Castle Honeymoon Suite features a four-poster bed, a fireplace and a private terrace with a hot tub, bar, and music system. The Courtyard Honeymoon Suite offers rustic charm with high wooden beams, stone walls, a jacuzzi, a private bar, and 900 square feet of luxurious space.
Capacity: Up to 250 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Kingscourt, Co. Cavan.
Kinnitty Castle Hotel
Whether you’re planning a celebration for two or two hundred, the castle has beautiful spaces to suit your day. The Great Hall of the O’Carrolls, historically serving as the central chamber for functions and ceremonies, is flooded with natural daylight and can accommodate larger gatherings. The Drawing Room, on the Other Hand, provides a warm and intimate space for smaller celebrations.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Kinnitty, Co. Offaly.
Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle, once the ancestral home of the O’Briens, descendants of the legendary Brian Boru, is one of Ireland’s most luxurious wedding venues. Spanning across a breathtaking 450-acre estate with serene lakes, manicured gardens, and enchanting woodlands, it offers a truly romantic backdrop for an unforgettable celebration.
Exchange vows in the romantic Walled Garden or Kincora Hall, with its natural light and views of Dromoland Lough, then enjoy a champagne reception on the lawns before feasting and dancing in the magnificent Brian Ború Hall.
From lakeside views to sumptuous suites, canopied beds to breakfast in bed, and bubble baths to lazy lie-ins, each room at Dromoland Castle is designed for comfort and style. With luxurious furnishings, elegant bathrooms, soothing colour schemes, and beautiful views, every room reflects Irish heritage while exceeding expectations. The castle can be exclusively hired for your wedding day, allowing you and your guests to enjoy a truly private, fairytale celebration.
Capacity: Up to 450 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare.
Ballyseede Castle
Kerry’s only castle hotel, Ballyseede Castle, is beautifully situated amidst 30 acres of ancient woodlands and manicured gardens, making it the ideal escape for an unforgettable, bespoke castle wedding.
Couples can enjoy a drinks reception in the Orangery, take family portraits in the formal gardens, and celebrate with a memorable meal and dancing. The Coachroom accommodates up to 200 guests, while smaller weddings can be hosted in other areas of the castle. Approved for Civil, Humanist, and Spiritualist ceremonies and Blessings, Ballyseede Castle provides a complete celebration under one roof.
For your guests, the castle venue provides 45 luxurious en-suite bedrooms, including five at The Lodge on the castle grounds, meaning you can keep the party going into the next day
Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Tralee, Co. Kerry.
Barberstown Castle
Having stood for more than 700 years, Barberstown Castle is anchored on twenty acres of gardens and mature woodland in County Kildare. It presents an intimate setting with medieval foundations, Elizabethan additions, and timeless interiors filled with antiques and artwork.
Whether you choose a ceremony in the private garden, a celebration in the Castle Keep, or an evening dinner beneath the chandeliers of the 16th-century Banqueting Hall, every space feels distinctly yours. And with exclusive hire of the space, you can transform every inch into whatever you require, be it grand tables beneath chandeliers or picnic blankets in the orchard.
Each room at Barberstown Castle is unique, featuring antique furnishings, period details, and a timeless, personal warmth. The exclusive Presidential Suite is the pinnacle of elegance, with spacious living areas, a private balcony, a luxurious king-sized bed, and premium amenities. Perfect for the newlyweds.
Capacity: Up to 220 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Straffan, Co. Kildare.
Bellingham Castle
An awe-inspiring 17th-century estate hugging the banks of the River Glyde, the romantic walled gardens and stately interiors of Bellingham Castle make it a picture-perfect wedding venue.
The resident Irish Wolfhounds welcome guests and can relax in the library, Sun Lounge, or bar lounges before dining under sparkling chandeliers in the grand Bute Suite. With a creative culinary team that utilises fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, Bellingham Castle ensures a memorable celebration for you and your guests.
The castle’s bedrooms are as unique as they are luxurious, from ‘The Music Room’ with its freestanding bath overlooking the River Glyde and 19th-century sluice gate, to the sumptuous ‘Sir Henry’s Room,’ steeped in local history, each offering style, comfort, and a rich sense of heritage.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Castlebellingham, Co. Louth.
Belleek Castle
Whether you’re planning a licensed ceremony, vow renewal, or symbolic celebration, there are options to suit every style and guest list, including intimate rooms and beautiful outdoor settings. Continue the celebrations with a wedding feast in the grand Banquet Hall, the relaxed Stable Block, or one of the castle’s more unique spaces, such as the Dungeon, Tween Deck, or award-winning Library Restaurant.
From majestic four-poster beds and elegant period furnishings to private bathrooms and thoughtful amenities, every detail ensures a luxurious stay for you and your guests. With exclusive use of the castle, its grounds, and beautiful spaces, you have the freedom to shape your celebration exactly as you envision it, whether for one unforgettable day or a whole weekend of fun.
Capacity: Up to 180 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Ballina, Co. Mayo.
Castle Durrow Hotel
Surrounded by vibrant gardens and sweeping parkland, Castle Durrow is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere has been carefully restored to create a romantic and elegant setting for weddings.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Durrow, Co. Laois.
Wilton Castle
Hidden away on the banks of the Boro River, Wilton Castle offers a unique mix of history and intimacy. The partially restored ruins and cosy interiors make for a truly unique celebration. Couples who choose this venue enjoy complete privacy, surrounded by woodlands and romantic backdrops, perfect for those seeking a slightly unconventional wedding location.
Weddings can be hosted for up to eighty-five guests in the banqueting area, which opens through French doors onto landscaped gardens that stretch down to the Boro River. The grand driveway, turreted towers, and terraces provide a dramatic and romantic setting, while the gardens and riverside spaces are ideal for capturing memorable moments.
Accommodation is offered across several individually styled suites, with the upstairs one-bedroom Butler Suite ideally suited as a bridal suite, complete with a tower bathroom and delicate furnishings. The remaining three suites offer charming and comfortable guest accommodation, blending timeless character with modern conveniences for a memorable stay.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.
Huntington Castle
Set in one of Ireland’s most enchanting locations, Huntington Castle provides a truly unique and romantic setting for your wedding. From intimate venue hire to breathtaking photo spots, every element is carefully designed to create a truly memorable day.
Whether planning a boutique wedding or a larger reception, Huntington Castle has you covered, rain or shine. Ceremonies can take place in a variety of spaces, including the Abbey with its stone altar and elegant arches, under the canopy of the magnificent Yew Trees, or in the distinctive Temple of Isis in the castle’s basement, offering couples and their guests a truly memorable experience.
The recently refurbished lodge features a gated front garden and a cosy wood-burning stove, and is available on a self-catering basis for stays from a few nights to several weeks, making it perfect for enjoying the castle and its grounds before or after the wedding day.
Capacity: Up to 120 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Clonegall, Co. Carlow.
Lough Eske Castle
Nestled on the shores of a tranquil lake and surrounded by 43 acres of woodlands with sweeping mountain views, Lough Eske Castle is a five-star retreat brimming with history. Dating back to 1861, this striking Tudor-Baronial castle has been beautifully restored to preserve the character of the original estate while offering all the modern luxuries couples and their guests could wish for.
Lough Eske Castle offers a variety of beautiful spaces for your civil ceremony, from the romantic Library and elegant Glencar Suite to the luxurious Presidential Suite or the outdoor Rock Garden. For your reception, the Castle Ballroom provides a grand setting with a private bar and outdoor seating, while the more intimate rooms are perfect for smaller, personal celebrations.
With 124 luxurious bedrooms and suites, the castle is an ideal venue for hosting guests in comfort and style. The exclusive two-bedroom Lake Lodge offers privacy by the water’s edge, while day-two celebrations can be enjoyed with fine dining in Cedars Restaurant or a relaxed gathering in the cosy Fr. Browne Bar.
Capacity: Up to 300 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Lough Eske, Co. Donegal.
Lough Rynn Castle
Tucked away in tranquil Leitrim, Lough Rynn Castle Estate and Gardens is a hidden gem of luxury and natural beauty. Overlooking a serene lake and framed by manicured gardens, it offers breathtaking views of the natural expanse. Once the ancestral home of the Clements family and the legendary Lord Leitrim, it now provides a truly enchanting backdrop for weddings.
Guests can enjoy pre-dinner drinks on the open lawns with spectacular lakeside views, or gather indoors by the roaring Inglenook open fire, one of the largest in Ireland. With panoramic bay windows and uniquely styled drawing rooms, the castle provides a warm and atmospheric setting for your wedding celebrations, whatever the weather.
Couples can choose from lake-view and deluxe rooms, along with two breathtaking honeymoon suites that boast panoramic views of the estate. For added convenience, self-catering lodges are available just a short walk from the hotel reception. Whether for a day or a weekend, you and your guests can relax, celebrate, and explore the grounds of this majestic estate.
Capacity: Up to 360 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Mohill, Co. Leitrim.
Johnstown Castle
Celebrate your wedding amidst eight centuries of history at Johnstown Castle, a truly unique venue for intimate micro-weddings. Surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking serene lakes, the castle’s dramatic neo-Gothic architecture and sumptuously furnished rooms provide a stunning backdrop for your special day.
Couples can exchange vows in the castle’s period rooms, where ornate wood panelling, crystal chandeliers, and Gothic window frames create an enchanting atmosphere. Alternatively, the newly restored East Wing offers both the magnificent Ballroom and the intimate Oratory, combining the best of tradition, reimagined for the modern couple.
Capacity: Up to 50 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Murntown, Co. Wexford
Belle Isle Castle
With roots dating back before the 15th century and famously known as the site where the Annals of Ulster were written, Belle Isle’s story is woven through centuries. The castle itself, built in the early 17th century and lovingly restored in 1991, offers exclusive use on your wedding day, on your own private island.
Whether you choose the impressive Grand Hall inside the castle, the romantic Terrace with panoramic views, or the Sunken Garden for an intimate, outdoor ceremony, there are a plethora of fabulous spaces to say 'I Do'. For larger celebrations, the Castle Pavilion Wedding Marquee offers a stunning setting on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, with elegantly dressed tables and the option to customise every detail.
The newly refurbished Abercorn Wing makes for a delightful Bridal Suite, with its grand four-poster bed and views across Lough Erne to the Sweet Pea Suite, featuring a deluxe roll-top bath. Additional guests can stay in the estate’s award-winning Courtyard Apartments, Coach Houses, or lakeside lodges, with the property accommodating up to ninety-three overnight guests in total.
Capacity: Up to 200 guests for dining.
Contact: [email protected]
Location: Lisbellaw, Co. Enniskillen
- Gráinne