Stay in the Real-Life Castle From House of Guinness
Netflix’s new eight-part historical drama The House of Guinness, created by Peaky Blinders' Steven Knight and starring Yorkshire’s own James Norton, transports viewers to 1860s Dublin, following the influential Guinness family in the aftermath of patriarch Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness’s death. Lavish period costumes, high-stakes family drama and sweeping backdrops from Ireland to New York bring the story of one of Ireland’s most iconic dynasties to life.
While the series was filmed primarily at Penrhyn Castle in North Wales - moreover chosen for its cinematic grandeur and resemblance to grand Irish estates - the real-life castle that the Guinness family called home is very much still standing… and you can stay there.
The Guinness Family’s Castle: Ashford Estate, County Mayo
Ashford Castle Hotel, nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib in Cong, is a luxurious five-star retreat with over 800 years of history. The castle began as a 13th-century de Burgo tower house, a medieval fortified residence built by one of Ireland’s most powerful Anglo-Norman families.
In 1852, the estate was purchased by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, who expanded and transformed it into a country retreat, including planting thousands of trees and building roads on the estate. His son, Lord Ardilaun, continued this vision, adding even more grandeur in the form of baronial-style architecture, renovated interiors, formal gardens and ultimately expanding the estate to an impressive 26,000 acres.
By the late 19th and early 20th century, Ashford had become known for its classic house-party lifestyle, hosting shooting parties, fishing trips, and elegant gatherings for high society. The Guinness family retained ownership until 1939, after which it was sold and later converted into the luxurious hotel we know today.
Modern Luxury in a Medieval Setting
This stunning castle hotel boasts 83 individually designed rooms and suites, each adorned with rich colours and sumptuous fabrics; offset by intricate patterns, period antiques and original artwork that echo its storied past.
The estate, now a charming 350 acres, is a sanctuary for luxury, romance and adventure. Couples can even stay in a private lakeside boathouse - perfect for a romantic escape.
Things to Do at Ashford Castle
Whether you're planning a relaxing retreat or a full itinerary of activities, Ashford offers a unique and memorable experience:
- Fine dining across ten restaurants and bars
- Augustinus Bader spa treatments and full wellness centre
- Indoor pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, gym and fitness studio
- Outdoor pursuits: falconry, horse-riding, clay-shooting, archery, cycling and hiking
- Water pursuits: fishing, boating, kayaking and lake cruises
- Sports: two tennis courts and a scenic nine-hole golf course
- Evenings in: a private, velvet-clad cinema with popcorn and snacks included
House of Guinness Versus the Real Thing
When Anne Plunket - the only daughter of Benjamin Guinness - visits the castle in the first season of House of Guinness, it’s not quite the five-star destination guests experience today. That’s mainly because the scenes were filmed at Penrhyn Castle in North Wales, chosen for its dramatic mountainous backdrop, proximity to the sea and visual similarities with Ashford Castle. Although it’s not their authentic residence, Penrhyn’s surreal sense of grandeur perfectly reflected the excess and extravagance of the Guinness family.
Experience History for Yourself with Celtic Castles
At Celtic Castles, we specialise in unique castle stays across the UK and Ireland, with over 100 hand-picked properties available to book for multigenerational holidays, romantic escapes, special celebrations, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
With nearly 30 years of experience, our expert team is available seven days a week to offer free, impartial advice and help match you with your dream castle stay — no hassle, just unforgettable memories.
Author Bio
Amy has over 20 years’ experience creating copy across a range of industries and styles.
Prior to Celtic Castles, she worked for several historic homes in the north of England and Scotland, collaborating with the owners and experiencing the day-to-day running of the properties.
Amy also coordinated venue showrounds, meeting with guests planning their wedding, special celebration, filming location or corporate event. This knowledge and expertise has helped her understand people's different needs and wants in relation to a castle stay.
We're delighted Amy can bring this experience to Celtic Castles where she creates content to help guide people looking for their own unique castle experience.