Spend the Night in an Actual Castle on Your Next Ireland Trip
Dromoland Castle in County Clare is the possibly closest you can get to being treat like royalty on the Emerald Isle
There are plenty of grand old hotels in Ireland – The Merchant, Carton House, The Shelbourne – but not that many that allow you to live out the full, unashamed king or queen fantasy. Dromoland Castle, and a castle it is, leans into the idea fully.
From the properly crenellated turrets to the sweeping parkland that provides a lush green frame, just arriving at Dromoland is an experience in itself. But inside, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived in a different century altogether, albeit with better plumbing.
Let’s dive into this unique and iconic hotel that’s hosted presidents, Beatles and Hollywood megastars
The Backstory
Dromoland Castle has existed in some form for well over 900 years, home to the O’Briens, known as the Barons of Inchiquin, a famous family whose name is now synonymous with Irish ancestry and identity.
Changing little for the nnext 700 or so years, parts of the building were remodelled in the 1700s, before pretty much everything was chopped and changed between 1800 and 1832, when the Pain brothers, famous architects at the time, created the ‘fairytale’ Georgian main building with its turrets and gothic grey stone walls.
The O’Briens remained at Dromoland right up until 1962, when the castle was sold and then transformed into the luxury resort hotel that stands there today.
The Stay
Dromoland isn’t some minimalist, castle-inspired experience where you’re cocooned in modern interiors. The stone walls shine through, the furnishings feel original (without being old and dusty) and there’s a lot of authenticity. However, this doesn’t mean a handful of suits of armour and a chandelier or two. If it wasn’t a luxury hotel, you could probably open Dromoland as a decent local history museum.
Formal rooms, deep carpets, original paintings and of course sweeping views across the carefully manicured parkland and lake are brought to life by the ‘castle historian’, who takes pleasure in walking you through the battles, backstabbings and IRA plans to demolish the whole thing.
Rooms carry the same historic elegance but definitely aren’t dated, plus there’s no trading comfort for historic accuracy. Facilities are well maintained and the hosuekeeping is top notch.
However, guests are encouraged to spend their stay in the glorious public areas, including the glorious bar, known as The Gallery, with a roaring fire almost every month of the year. The on-site restaurant, Earl of Thomond, is a real treat and at least one dinner experience is highly recommended. Dishes often include local ingredients ranging from partridge and venison to seaweed dragged from the limestone rocks that jut into the Atlantic. The afternoon tea is also well worth, according to multiple TripAdvisor reviews and Reddit posts.
Exploring the Estate
Although it’s entirely possible to spend your stay reading a book by the fire or wallowing in the very well-equipped spa (both fine if the typical Irish rain has set in), the estate surrounding Dromoland Castle isn’t just a backdrop.
Falconry, archery, fishing (yes, in the lake) and rambling are all bookable at the front desk, or you can just wander the path by the lake if the weather suits. We’re struggling to think of anything more regal than trying your hand at falconry before retiring to your turret!
If that doesn’t burn off your energy, then the par-72 championship parkland golf course should do the trick.
Must-Sees Nearby
If you fancy exploring the surrounding countryside, there is no shortage of famous things to see and do near Dromoland Castle.
At the very top of your list, and a must-see even if you’re on a tight schedule, are the famous Cliffs of Moher. Many visitors to these dramatic cliffs pair their experience with a stay in Dromoland, so you’ll likely find an offer of a taxi or shuttle if you mention your interest to the front desk.
Also high on the geology list is the weirdly barren lunar landscape that is The Burren. Looking out of place against the rest of Ireland’s green backdrop, The Burren is ideal for a stroll and a few photos of the oddly enchanting smooth stone.
If you really want to experience Ireland’s wild Atlantic coastline, then a day trip to the Aran Islands is the best way to embrace sea spray and some extremely fresh air. Bring the binoculars to spot sea birds and seals.
If you want to skip anything mildly outdoor-based, then Ennis is a wonderful stop to sit and read the paper by a warm fire with a glass of the black stuff (Guinness, of course).
Start Booking Now
If you like the sound of a palatial stay at this Irish castle hotel, then it’s strongly advised to book as early as you can. Rooms are in high demand year-round, especially suites. Remember to book your restaurant reservations, rounds of golf or other activities at the same time to avoid disappointment when you arrive!
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