Quintin Castle

Encircled by battlements and sitting on the edge of a cliff that descends straight into the wilds of the Irish sea, Quintin Castle stands guard by the coastline as it has done for 800 years. Available for private use, the castle has 10 bedrooms accommodating up to 24 guests. With extensive manicured gardens, it backs onto the woodlands and farmlands of historic County Down and boasts spectacular sea views. The dramatic castle also encompasses a private beach, a helipad and a jetty offering bespoke boat trips out to sea.

An Incredible History

Built in 1184 by the knight, John de Courcey, it remains one of the few occupied Anglo-Norman castles in Ireland, having been restored from near ruin in 1850. Refurbished to a high standard, it is incredibly inviting making it ideal for families or multiple groups of family and friends; a further appeal being the sense of privacy and seclusion this unique castle offers. Imagine gathering around the lit fires in wintertime in elegant, welcoming rooms, spending quality time together after a delicious dinner.

The journey to Quintin is in itself memorable: cross Strangford Lough by ferry to Portaferry, then follow the shore until the castle tower rises through the trees. Wind up along a narrow lane, pass through the imposing gates and down a short drive to discover a haven of refined luxury. Beyond its array of impressive crenelations, Quintin Castle is perfect for life’s most special celebrations.

The Castle

Accommodation

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Quintin Castle’s luxurious and pristinely-presented 10 bedrooms provide very comfortable accommodation for up to 24 guests. Each room benefits from abundant natural light, sunny aspects and spacious en-suite bathrooms, many with walk-in showers.

Each room is uniquely designed with long, beautiful drapes, ornate rugs and dark wood, antique furniture. Most rooms feature delicately-patterned wallpaper with exquisite views of either the shoreline and sea or the front gardens.

A special family room features bunk beds and a double bed. For something memorable, opt for the unique tower room with panoramic views or the sea-facing suite featuring a luxurious bathroom with a freestanding tub.

Public Rooms

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The Inner Hall

From the hall, the main thoroughfare leads through the castle to views of the shoreline - where sea, beach and distant islands create a stunning backdrop.

Upon entering, take a left turn into two fabulously comfortable, light-filled rooms with front and back aspects looking out at the shore and garden lawn respectively. They offer breakout spaces perfect for setting up entertainment or ‘quiet time’ nooks for children.

Drawing Room

Dainty blues, subdued reds, and gold accents create an enchanting, elegant space - perfect for planning the day or unwinding with tea. Floral themes, antique furnishings and vintage portraits evoke the charm of a bygone era.

Living Room

The L-shaped space pairs a grand dining table for gala dinners with a relaxed sofa area overlooking sea-view terraces. Throughout the castle, games like cards, dominoes, and chess invite friendly competition - or a quiet round by the prominent fireplace.

The Tudor Room

Wood panelling, a vaulted ceiling, oak table, and stone fireplace give this dining room a warm, inviting feel, complemented by shoreline views. With logs by the grate and candelabras on the mantel, it’s the perfect setting for a cosy meal, fine wine, and shared laughter.

The Long Room

Regal and light-filled, this dining room features a polished mahogany table, gilded oil paintings, and neutral-toned walls. At its far end, the Long Room opens into a lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, layered rugs, plush white settees, and richly upholstered armchairs, perfect for curling up in.

The Kitchen

Along with the wide hall and comforting library, this large, well-equipped kitchen is functional for both domestic and commercial use with a lovely big table in the middle. The fridge can be stocked with your choice of wine. The three rooms combine effortlessly to host your house-party weekend.

Dining

The castle is let on a self-catered basis, but catering can be arranged, if requested, and will be tailored to your requirements. The Tudor Room can seat 16 and The Long Room seats 22 guests. In the warmer months, you and your party may wish to make good use of the outdoor patio dining areas, slightly elevated from the gravel paths that frame a lovely configuration of four stone-walled garden beds and neat squares of lawn. From these alfresco areas, you can take in the historic natural beauty of Quintin’s unique and secluded location and, of course, the unmatchable scents and sounds of the sea.

There are a handful of delightful restaurants and pubs in Strangford; enjoy taking the evening ferry from Portaferry, without a car, there and back (running each way on the half hour ensures an easy trip).

Activities

If you choose to stay at the magnificent Quintin Castle, you will have no shortage of activities with which to fill your time. The coastal castle boasts its very own private beach for guests to enjoy to their hearts' content. It’s quite a rarity for a castle to also have its own private jetty and helipad! Bespoke boat trips and helicopter tours will give you ample opportunity to venture far and wide across the shoreline and above the peaceful countryside that surrounds the castle. In addition, there are the glorious gardens to explore.

History

“In those times of the sword, the caste was our fortress”. Quintin Castle was built by John de Courcey in 1184, the Anglo Norman knight who had conquered large parts of Ulster from 1176, the name “Quintin” likely echoes its status as his fifth castle in Ireland. Quintin remains one of the very few inhabited Anglo Irish Castles in Ulster, having stood guard over the Irish Sea for 800 years.

Quintin Castle has weathered nearly eight centuries—from its founding through ownership by Norman families (Savages, Smiths), expansion under the Montgomerys, decay under George Ross, revival by Elizabeth Calvert in the 19th century, varied roles in the 20th century.

In more recent years, it has seen further transition and renovation, speaking volumes about the castle’s resilience and enduring charm.

Gardens and Estate

Terrace Area

The patio features a covered seating area with heaters and a barbecue, creating a welcoming space for al fresco dining or relaxed evenings with friends and family. From here, guests can enjoy sweeping, almost island-like coastal views, watch herons and seals along the shore, or stroll along the quiet beach. Bathed in sunlight throughout the day, the south-facing terrace offers a serene and tranquil retreat.

Gardens

Ideal spaces for family and groups of friends to enjoy, the gardens at Quintin are extensive and varied, from long lawns ideal for games to colourful trails and shoreline gardens with access down to the beach. A beach walk leads you to the rocks offering magnificent views back to the castle. The rocky inlets of the water’s edge contrast dramatically with the lush mounds of flora and fauna embracing the castle walls.

Within the battlements and through stone archways, guests find themselves lost in the mysterious nooks and crannies of these beautiful landscaped gardens. Stone pathways weave through large laurels safely cocooned, whilst wild grasses blow in the wind out on the cliff edge.

Walking outside the battlements is a must in order to truly experience the eternal vistas across the Irish Sea. The changing seasons are very apparent at Quintin, each one bringing with it a sense of wonder and appreciation for the castle’s dramatic landscape.

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