Ballinlough Castle
9.9 County Meath, Ireland
Overnight Accommodation
Sleeps 18 guests in 9 rooms
Standing in 300 acres of grassland, woodland and lakes, just an hour from Dublin
Sitting in 300 acres of grassland, ancient woodland, and serene lakes, Ballinlough Castle is a secluded haven of extraordinary biodiversity, an exquisite setting for distinguished executive retreats.
Just one hour from Dublin, this historic family estate combines privacy and exclusivity with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, offering a refined ‘home from home’ experience, where comfort meets understated luxury.
The 17th century castle is currently in the hands of its 12th generation of owners, Sir Nicholas and Lady Nugent. Hosting guests from all over the world, the experienced team are adept at offering relaxed and traditional country house hospitality, ensuring events run like clockwork, and are happy to take the strain out of organising your event.
Meetings and Events
Castle Interiors
The Georgian drawing and dining rooms provide an elegant backdrop for both formal gatherings and relaxed conversations. The sunlit morning room serves as a tranquil breakout space, ideal for smaller discussions or moments of quiet reflection.
Old Hay Shed
Nestled in the newly restored stable yard, The Old Hay Shed is a versatile venue for bespoke events, workshops and immersive team-building experiences. With a blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, tailored catering and absolute privacy, it offers the perfect environment to inspire creativity and collaboration.
Wander lakeside paths, host wellness sessions surrounded by nature, or gather in the double-height, rustic indoor-outdoor room, perfect for workshops, wellness retreats or private presentations.
Upstairs, a beautifully restored space with original lime plastered walls provides a striking canvas for exhibitions and product launches.
Facility’s highlights
- Flexible event spaces with formal and informal settings
- Dedicated wellness areas to reconnect and recharge
- Total privacy amid serene natural surroundings
Dining
Dine in grandeur or under the stars. The castle’s opulent dining hall seats 18 guests in sophisticated comfort for formal occasions. For a more relaxed ambiance, the Old Hay Shed offers an intimate supper-club style experience. Alternatively, embrace the beauty of the estate with a bespoke al-fresco feast in the gardens.
What to expect
- Elegant and casual dining settings
- Customised menus tailored to your event’s theme and tone
Team Building
Ballinlough Castle’s expansive grounds are the ideal canvas for team-building adventures. The dedicated team will help curate immersive, locally inspired activities, each designed to foster connection and creativity.
From traditional Irish dance and local farm experiences to thrilling Go-karting or a day at the races, your itinerary will be as memorable as the setting itself.
Sample activities
- Soda bread baking on a local farm, cow milking, turf cutting and playing the bodrun
- Private Irish dancing exhibitions
- Horse racing excursions
- High-adrenaline Go-kart challenges
- Wild swimming in the lake
Accommodation
The castle can host up to 18 guests across nine beautifully appointed bedrooms. Four master suites feature majestic four-poster beds, blending timeless elegance with all the comforts of a contemporary country estate.
Accommodation highlights
- Nine luxurious guest rooms including four grand suites
- Tranquil, restful surroundings for an undisturbed night’s sleep
Prices
Ballinlough Castle is available for exclusive hire, allowing your team to enjoy complete privacy and tailored service across the full Estate. Whether hosting a one-day gathering in the Hay Shed, or a multi-day retreat in the castle, you’ll have the freedom to create a truly bespoke corporate experience in a setting of remarkable beauty and refinement.
Contact us for tailor-made pricing for your individual requirements.
Location
Ballinlough Castle is situated near the rural town of Clonmellon in County Westmeath, just an hour from Dublin city and airport.
Reviews
9.9
We are now all at home basking in the wonderful memories we made at Ballinlough Castle. The family all agreed that it was the best family vacation ever. Avril and your team made us all feel like Kings and Queens and the access to the lake was a real bonus. Nicholas’s stories were also a real treat. Thank you all for a very enjoyable week.
We stayed with 14 family members for 1 week. Eight adults and 6 children ranging in ages of 8 to 17. The Castle accommodated everyone very well. Alice and her team were so warm and friendly and they saw to our every need. The food was delicious and always presented nicely. The lake was a real bonus and the children used the paddle boards and the row boat and they caught 8 fish. Ballinlough Castle is a wonderful place for a family vacation.
An Unforgettable Experience Thanks to Celtic Castles Our stay at Ballinlough Castle was truly unforgettable, and it wouldn’t have happened without the amazing team at Celtic Castles. They helped us narrow down nearly 30 properties to find the perfect fit for our group, our budget, and our goals. They were attentive, patient, and incredibly helpful every step of the way. The castle itself was magic. Alice made everything feel personal and special, from the tea party to the live music. Nick brought the place to life with his stories and humor. Laura and Lucy were a highlight with their riding demo and contagious joy. Avril and Susan took care of us like family with incredible meals and thoughtful touches. Thanks to Celtic Castles, we didn’t just take a trip. We created lasting memories. If you’re dreaming of a castle stay, this is the team you want. — Lizzie and the whole crew
What a beautiful home and a beautiful family taking such lovely care of it. Treated us like royalty!
There were 15 family and friends from around the United States gathered for a hen party (Bachelorette) overall 9 women and 6 men from 28 to 63 years old. Ballinlough Castle did not disappoint. The accommodations were lovely and the owners and staff were outstanding. They helped plan an epic trip where we experienced a little of Ireland throughout the week to include local music at the castle one night. The chef did an amazing job and everyone was so pleased. I can't imagine a better experience -- even more than we dreamed of. The hosts are amazing!!!