Top 10 Castle hotels in Ireland

The best Irish hotels converted from castles

Several impressive Irish castles, from the suburbs of Dublin to the parklands of Connemara in the west country have been converted into hotels.

You can be king or queen of the Irish castle for as little as €89 for a double room. No foolin'. In fact, at only one of the top 10 Irish castle hotels below do the rates start at more than €160 (that would be Adare Manor, pictured above, where I'm sure you'll agree €230 is actually quite a bargain).

(Note that the prices in brackets are from the online booking engines, which often are far below the official "rack rates" you'll see if you go direct to the hotels themselves.)

Top 10 Irish castle hotels

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort [from €230 online] - This 5-star Gothic-style manor is set in an 840-acre estate with medieval ruins, trout fishing and an 18-hole golf course. The peaceful Adare Manor and Golf Resort has many activities, from the spa and swimming pool to walks, bike rentals and horseback riding. The large bedrooms have free Wi-Fi and ornate, luxurious furnishings... Adare, Co. Limerick; www.adaremanor.com.

Belleek Castle [from €99 online] - This beautiful and historic castle is set within 1,000 acres of woodland. Guests can enjoy the 13th-century Norman fireplace of the Great Hall, or relax in front of the many open fires throughout the castle, with its suits of armor and numerous antiques. On the banks of the Moy River, it boasts a restaurant made from the remains of a 17th-century Spanish galleon... Belleek, Ballina, Co. Mayo; www.belleekcastle.com.  

Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel [from €89 online] - The 18th century Fitzpatrick Castle Dublin Hotel overlooks Dublin Bay, a 20-minute drive from Dublin (there's also a DART station 10 minutes away). It offers free Wi-Fi, a pool, spa, gym, and two award winning restaurants. The James Joyce Museum and Dalkey Castle are both within one mile and free parking is available... Killiney Hill Road, Killiney, Dalkey, Co Dublin; www.fitzpatrickcastle.com.

Ballyseede Castle [from €109 online] - Take a step back in time to the 1590s with a castle hotel steeped in history that offers luxurious surroundings within 30 acres of private gardens and woodland. Impressive parlors with ornate cornices, adorned with marble fireplaces provide an ideal setting for afternoon tea or morning coffee... Ballyseed, Tralee, Co. Kerry; www.ballyseedecastle.com.

Clontarf Castle Hotel [from €129 online] - Set in an 11th-century castle the Clontarf Hotel combines ancient architecture with 21st-century facilities. Just 10 minutes from central Dublin, this boutique hotel offers an award-winning restaurant and luxurious bedrooms. Rooms at the Clontarf Castle Hotel feature air-conditioning, LCD satellite TVs and free Wi-Fi... Castle Avenue, Clontarf, Dublin, Co. Dublin; www.clontarfcastle.ie.

Castle Leslie Estate [from €150 online] - The Lodge is a restored stone stable-courtyard within the 1000 acres of countryside, ancient woods and lakes that form the Castle Leslie Estate. Rooms feature a private bathroom with deep roll-top bathtub and views of the Equestrian Center or woodland. Rooms also include flat-screen TVs. A modern equestrian center and an organic Victorian spa are on site... Glaslough, Co. Monaghan; www.castleleslie.com.

Cabra Castle Hotel [from €110 online] - This 18th-century castle has a quiet location, looking out over huge grounds and beautiful countryside. It is now a 4-star hotel, mixing original character with modern luxury and free parking. The Cabra Castle Hotel was built in 1760 and has high ceilings, grand staircases and historic hallways... Kingscourt, Co. Cavan; www.cabracastle.com.

Solis Lough Eske Castle [from €154 online] - Set on 43 acres of forest by the lake at the foot of the mountains 10 minutes outside Donegal, this stunning castle dating back to the 1400s boasts huge rooms with 32-inch flat-screen TVs. The 5-star hotel offers a luxurious spa within its beautiful grounds.... Lough Eske Castle Road, Donegal, Co. Donegal; www.solishotels.com/lougheskecastle.

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort [from €159 online] - With a beautiful setting on the River Suir, the luxurious 800-year-old Waterford Castle is on a private island with elegant rooms, stunning views, and contemporary lodges tucked away beside the 18-hole golf course. Access to the island is by a private car ferry which operates throughout the day. There are outdoor activities and peaceful nature trails and walking paths to explore.... The Island, Waterford, Co. Waterford; www.waterfordcastle.com.

Ballynahinch Castle Hotel [from €145 online] - Ballynahinch Castle Hotel is set within 450 acres of woodland in County Galway, with the beautiful backdrop of the 12 Bens Mountain range. This 4-star luxury castle hotel overlooks its impressive salmon fishery on the large private estate; activities include hiking, pony riding and game bird hunting. The excellent restaurant holds 2 AA Rosettes.... Ballynahinch, Recess, Co. Galway; www.ballynahinch-castle.com.