Many people dream of staying in an Irish castle, but most think the cost makes its way out of reach. The reality is there are some fantastic options on Airbnb, and they come in just about every price range making it a lot more feasible than you probably think. These, in particular, offer some of the dreamiest castle stays on the Emerald Isle.
Carraigin Castle, Headford
Carraigin Castle dates back to the 13th century, set along the shores of Lough Corrib, one of the largest lakes in Ireland, known for its outstanding brown trout fishing and picturesque islands. On the seven-acre property with woodland, parkland, and vast lawns, visitors can try their luck at fishing, go boating or just relax and enjoy the view. Inside, the ancient dwelling will take you back to a time with simple grandeur, with six bedrooms accommodating up to 12. Rooms on the second floor boast magnificent views of the lake, Clare hills, and both the Connemara and Mayo regions. You’ll have all the comforts of home, including a small but well-equipped kitchen and laundry facilities.
16th Century Medieval Towerhouse, Cuffesgrange
Located less than a 15-minute drive from the city of Kilkenny, this castle is the real deal. A 16th-century tower house, up to 10 guests can enjoy feeling like royalty here. The host’s father spent 25 years restoring the 500-year-old building while maintaining its historic character. It includes a full kitchen and laundry facilities, but there are no TVs. Instead, enjoy the tranquility of the countryside while feeling as if you’re living in the medieval era, if only for a brief time.
Your 15th-Century Castle, Kilkenny City
Tubbrid Castle is located in the countryside, 20 minutes from medieval Kilkenny City. The unique 15th-century tower house was uninhabited over the last century until being restored to its former beauty. Many original features remain for a true castle stay in what feels like another time, along with plenty of luxurious touches. Enjoy cozying up to a roaring log fire and bubble baths in the deep soaking tub. While there are various bedrooms that are all named for important characters in the castle’s history, the hosts accept just one booking at a time, so you’ll have the castle to yourselves.
Wilton Castle, Bree, County Wexford
Spectacular Wilton Castle contains seven bedrooms, sleeping up to 14 guests, and you’ll have it all to yourself when you book it on Airbnb. The elegant 19th-century castellated residence sits along the banks of the Boro River in County Wexford about a 30-minute drive from Ireland’s east coast. It has a well-equipped kitchen, a fireplace, breathtaking grounds with ruins and dungeons, and a very hospitable warm and welcoming host.
Lisheen Castle, Thurles
Lisheen is located in County Tipperary in the countryside, about 10 minutes from supermarkets, pubs, restaurants, and Irish music in the town of Thurles. Lovingly restored using local craftsmen to return it to its former glory while providing plenty of luxuries, it sleeps up to 14 in nine bedrooms and includes two kitchens, one high-end while the other is old-style. There are open turf fires that can be enjoyed in all reception rooms, although it is centrally heated throughout. Other highlights include cable TV, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and spectacular views.
Claregalway Castle, Claregalway
This gorgeous castle is a fully restored 15th-century tower house, just a short drive from Galway’s city center and within walking distance of a bus stop if you aren’t renting a car. It includes five individual rooms, with this one the River Room next to the castle along the banks of the River Clare. It includes an outdoor terrace for enjoying the views and the fresh air. Inside, you’ll have under-floor heating and luxurious bedding you’re sure to appreciate on a chilly morning or evening. Complimentary tea/coffee, a generous continental breakfast and wine are all included too.
Unique Castle in Beautiful Surroundings, Tipperary
Located just outside of Tipperary town in the heart of the scenic Glen of Aherlow, this country castle is nestled on 34 acres of private woodlands, providing opportunities for walks as long as 30 minutes beneath the trees. It sleeps up to eight in four bedrooms and you’ll have the full run of the place. A full kitchen with modern appliances, TV, washer/dryer and fireplace are all included. Plus, your friendly hosts will give you a tour that includes the history of the castle.
Charming 15th Century Castle, Kilfeacle
This castle will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time, but with all the modern comforts. Built in the late 1400s, it’s located in a rural farming area of Tipperary and offers picturesque views of the countryside. From the battlements on most days, you can see six different mountain ranges too. You’ll have the entire place, with the castle’s six floors connected by a stone and oak spiral staircase. It includes four bedrooms, accommodating up to seven guests, plus a Great Room with a beautifully handbuilt stone fireplace – a Minstrels Gallery is visible above where your friends or family members can serenade you. The kitchen includes all the basics with a supply of tea, coffee, and hot chocolate included.
Abbeyglen Castle, Clifden
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Connemara region, this gorgeous castle hotel is famous for its luxury accommodations that can be enjoyed at relatively affordable prices. The high-end rooms come with four-poster beds and fireplaces, but if you’re on a budget, you can reserve an economy room. All guests are sure to appreciate the award-winning restaurant on-site which serves a menu that includes local seafood and Connemara lamb. You’ll be greeted by the castle’s friendly talking parrot and a welcome champagne reception with a brief history of the castle. There’s a piano bar for enjoying music-filled evenings too.
Tybroughney Castle: The Vaulted Suite, Tybroughney
Perfect for romance-seeking couples or small families, this medieval tower house/castle offers more than 500 years of history, built in 1462. It sits along the banks of the River Suir, just over a half-mile from Piltown in County Kilkenny, blending old-world charms with modern comforts. The property includes a working dairy farm with a location close to the coast, mountains and historical landmarks while providing a unique base. Guests enjoy access to a large en-suite bedroom with a four-poster bed and an adjoining smaller bedroom, along with a mini-fridge and coffee station. Enjoy the outdoor living spaces, including an elegantly furnished courtyard with a fire pit and charcoal grill for cookouts.
Private Castle Accommodation Kilcolgan
Kilcolgan Castle is an 11th-century castle with views to die for just a short drive from Galway City, within easy reach of day trips to Connemara, the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. Enjoy all the comforts of home in a historic atmosphere, including reception rooms with open fires and a spacious kitchen dining area. There are horses that roam the grounds, champion Greyhounds, hens and cats along with nine acres of fields to walk, exclusive fishing and fantastic bird watching right on the property too. Complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite television are included.
Live Like a King, County Galway
This castle dates all the way back to the late 1400s, providing an authentic medieval stay less than a 30-minute drive from Galway City. While it was refurbished in the last decade, it’s the real deal so, as the owner notes, you’ll have to expect some dust and cobwebs. Guests have full use of the top two floors, which include stunning views from the rooftop, a master bedroom, living room, dining room and two guest bedrooms. You’ll be surrounded by countryside, dotted with sheep and cows, making this not only a very unique retreat but a tranquil one too.
Drummond Tower/Castle, Drogheda
Victoria Drummond Tower was built as a Folly Tower in the mid-19th-century as part of Monasterboice House & Demesne. It was recently restored and available for guests to rent through Airbnb during select months of the year. There are four floors, with the top floor level an external castellated roof terrace that provides 360-degree views and incredible stargazing after dark. There’s a kitchen area with cooking facilities, living area with a TV and an en-suite bedroom on the second floor with a queen-size bed.
Historical Fanningstown Castle, Adare
Fanningstown is a Gothic-style castle that dates to the 12th-century. Carefully restored, today it offers a romantic stay for Airbnb guests with five bedrooms that sleep as many as 10. Nestled among dairy farms, you’ll be surrounded by green fields and grazing cows while enjoying an unforgettable stay in a real castle. It has an enclosed patio, a well-stocked kitchen and a refrigerator along with lots of special touches throughout.
