Kilkea Castle
9.5 Castledermot, County Kildare, Ireland
With a history dating back to 1180, Kilkea Castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland. Set on 180 acres of its own wonderful woodland, gardens and golf course, Kilkea Castle enchants from the moment you drive down the beech-lined avenue. Only an hour’s drive from Dublin, the once Medieval stronghold of the FitzGerald’s, stands proudly and is ready to extend a warm Irish welcome to guests.
Accommodation
A total of 131 bedrooms split amongst several accommodation options across the estate appeal to all tastes and budgets. All guests can enjoy the leisure, dining, golf and outdoor pursuits that the estate has to offer.
Castle Rooms
Rooms in the castle are spacious with marble bathrooms and offer views of the River Greese, the Rose Garden, the Courtyard and Golf Course. The highlight is the Fitzgerald Suite at the very top of the castle in the Round Tower, with its free-standing bath and 360-degree views of the estate. The castle is equipped with an elevator for guests’ convenience.
The Carriage Rooms
The newly refurbished Carriage Rooms are located within the courtyard, under the watchful eye of the 12th-century castle. The Carriage Rooms are modern in style, complete with marble bathrooms. Interconnecting and wheelchair accessible rooms are available.
The Lodges
Enjoy Kilkea Castle at your own pace and book a Self-catering Lodge with the castle as your backdrop. The Lodges at Kilkea Castle are the perfect retreat for groups of families and friends with a variety of options to choose from.
Dining
Kilkea Castle is a luxury experience with a choice of dining options that will appeal to all.
Restaurant 1180
This exquisite restaurant offers a fine-dining experience overlooking the rose garden and signature 18th hole. Open Thursday-Sunday.
Hermione's Restaurant at the Clubhouse
Offering views over the 9th hole and the parkland beyond towards the main castle. Enjoys an abundance of natural light.
The Bistro
The Bistro is located in the Clubhouse at Kilkea Castle, which has undergone extensive remodelling and sits proudly overlooking the 9th hole with glimpses of the historic 12th-century castle filtering through the windows.
The Keep
Kilkea Castle's bar, The Keep, located on the ground floor of the castle, is the perfect spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness. Tea, coffee, pastries and drinks are served daily.
History
Built in 1180, Kilkea Castle was home to the Fitzgeralds, Earls of Kildare, for over 700 years. The castle is particularly associated with Gerald, the 11th Earl of Kildare, known as the "Wizard Earl". His interest in alchemy caused curiosity amongst his neighbours and he was said to possess magic powers. His ghost supposedly returns to the castle every seventh year, mounted on a fearsome white horse with silver shoes.
Activities
Kilkea Castle has its own spa, a challenging 18-hole golf course and offers a host of other estate activities which can be arranged on your behalf.
Prices
For events, weddings and group bookings, we'd love to .
Location
Kilkea Castle is located in Castledermot, within 180 acres of woodland and gardens, just an hour from Dublin. It overlooks the Killeshin Hills and is minutes from the ancient Mullaghreelan Woods.
Reviews
9.5
Well maintained property with not a blade of grass out of order.
Charming, cozy, stunning and beautiful location - this is a castle you conjure up in your mind when you think about staying in one.
It was the best experince of my life, awesome place, great staff and had a ball
Ismael greeted us with open arms and gave us all of the info that we needed. Our room looking out at the golf course was lovely. The food for dinner was tasty but the breakfast was outstanding!
The castle and grounds are absolutely stunning. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, kind, and fun! They made every effort to make our stay magical and we couldn't be happier or more grateful!