With over 30,000 castles dotting its landscape, Ireland is often called the “land of castles and sheep” for good reason.

While many of these castles, built between the 12th and 16th centuries, now stand as ruins, there’s some great news: several beautifully preserved castles are available for you to rent and stay in during your visit to the Emerald Isle.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about renting a castle in Ireland, from essential tips to the best options for every budget.

Let’s dive in!

What to Keep in Mind When Renting a Castle in Ireland

Renting a castle in Ireland is an exciting experience, but there are a few key factors to consider to ensure your stay is as magical as you imagine. Overlooking any of these could dampen the experience, so let’s cover what you need to know.

1. Choose Quality Properties

The first and most important step is ensuring you rent a high-quality castle. Not all castles are created equal—some offer luxury amenities and well-maintained grounds, while others may fall short of expectations. Research reviews, photos, and features thoroughly before making a decision.

2. Consider Your Purpose for Renting

Your reason for renting a castle will guide your choice. Broadly, there are two main categories:

• Option 1: Renting a small castle for a couple’s retreat or a family getaway.
• Option 2: Renting a larger castle for special occasions like weddings, group vacations, or big parties.

Each type serves different needs, so narrowing down your purpose will help filter the options and ensure you find the perfect fit. For your convenience, we’ve included top recommendations below for both scenarios.

3. Beware of Overpriced Listings

Be cautious when browsing castle rentals. Many websites specialize in renting out castles but mark up their prices significantly compared to platforms like Airbnb. For the same listing, you may find a better deal on other sites, so shop around and compare prices before booking.

Our Top Picks

If you’re short on time, here are our top recommendations:

• Best Castle for Couples or Small Families: Kilcogan Castle, Galway
• Best Castle for Large Parties or Events: Castle in the Wind

With these tips and recommendations, you’re well on your way to enjoying a dreamlike castle stay in Ireland! Happy planning!

Best Castles to Rent in Ireland

Looking for the perfect castle to rent in Ireland? Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family retreat, we’ve got you covered. If you’re seeking a castle for a big party or event, feel free to keep scrolling—you’ll find options for that too!

Ireland is known as the “land of castles and sheep,” boasting over 30,000 castles scattered across its breathtaking landscapes. Many of these castles, built between the 12th and 16th centuries, now lie in ruins, standing as testaments to Ireland’s rich history.

The great news? Plenty of stunning castles are still intact and available for you to rent and enjoy during your trip to the Emerald Isle.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to rent a castle in Ireland, what to keep in mind, and the best options for every budget and occasion.

Let’s dive in!

Ballyportry Castle

Ballyportry Castle stands out because it’s not a traditional military-style castle, making it perfect for those looking for a more comfortable stay. With spacious rooms and easy-to-navigate corners, this 15th-century castle was originally built for gatherings and has since been beautifully renovated in the 21st century.

Ideal for couples or small families, Ballyportry Castle offers 6 charming bedrooms. You can even rent a single room for a more intimate experience, or host a moderate-sized party with the whole place to yourself.

Located just 30 minutes from the Wild Atlantic Way and the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, its location adds to its allure.

Location: Co. Clare
Capacity/Rooms: 8 Guests
Price Range: Approximately $2k for 3 days

Kilcogan Castle, Ireland

Kilcogan Castle is our top pick for couples or small families seeking a castle to rent in Ireland, and here’s why:

At approximately €300 per night for a stay of 3 nights or more, it’s one of the most affordable castles available for rent.

Located in Galway, the castle offers a stunning setting with breathtaking views. You’re just a short drive from Galway city, the iconic Cliffs of Moher, and the Atlantic coastline—making it an ideal base for exploring the region.

For its price and location, it doesn’t get much better than this.

Location: Galway 

Capacity/Rooms: Up to 360 guests 

Price Range: $600 per guest per night

Tubbrid Castle

If you’re a couple or a small family looking to rent a castle in Ireland, Tubbrid Castle in Kilkenny is an excellent choice.

Built in the 15th century, this castle remained uninhabited for much of the 20th century before it was lovingly restored and opened to the public. It has become one of the most popular castles for tourists to rent.

Each bedroom in the castle is uniquely named, with a fascinating story behind each one. At approximately €600 per night for stays of 3 nights or more, this charming castle offers a unique experience for those seeking a memorable stay.

Location: Kilkenny 

Capacity/Rooms: Up to 10 guests 

Price Range: $600 per night 

Grantstown Castle

For a unique experience in Ireland, consider renting Grantstown Castle, located in the scenic countryside of Tipperary. Built in the 1400s, this stunning castle offers a perfect balance of luxury and affordability.

Ideal for smaller groups, it accommodates up to 7 people, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an intimate yet grand experience. If you love countryside views and prefer tall, towering castles over wide ones, Grantstown will not disappoint.

Location: Tipperary 

Capacity/Rooms: Up to 7 guests 

Price Range: $900 per night

Drummond Tower Castle

If you’re looking for a charming castle near Dublin, Drummond Tower in Drogheda is a fantastic choice, especially for couples. Built in 1858, it’s a more modern castle compared to the ancient ones, but its incredible panoramic views from the rooftop make it a special experience. Plus, it’s the most budget-friendly option on our list, making it a great pick if you’re mindful of cost.

Location: Drogheda (close to Dublin) 

Capacity/Rooms: Up to 4 guests 

Price Range: $130 per night (one of the best rates in our guide)

Kilkea Castle

If you’re looking for a luxurious castle experience near Dublin, Kilkea Castle is the perfect choice. Just an hour away from the city, this 12th-century castle is one of the oldest in our guide. Known for hosting weddings, it’s also available for any occasion you wish to celebrate.

With 140+ rooms, a dedicated tennis court, a golf course, and many other luxurious amenities, Kilkea Castle offers a grand experience. It’s a great option for those seeking opulence and space to host large gatherings.

Location: Co. Kildare (close to Dublin) 

Capacity/Rooms: 140+ rooms 

Price Range: $9,000 USD per week

Belle Isle Castle

For those seeking a spacious and reasonably priced castle, Belle Isle Castle is an excellent choice. This 17th-century castle boasts 16 bedrooms and spans across 470 acres, making it a grand and versatile option.

The castle is surrounded by charming cottages, allowing for a larger group of up to 90 guests, though we recommend keeping it more intimate to preserve the castle’s unique charm. One of the standout features of Belle Isle Castle is its stunning view of Lough Erne, which can be enjoyed from any of the bedrooms.

Location: Northern Ireland 

Capacity/Rooms: 16 Bedrooms 

Price Range: $3,000 per night

Glin Castle

With a rich 700-year history, Glin Castle offers an unforgettable experience. Set alongside the picturesque Shannon River, the castle provides stunning views to complement its historical charm.

However, Glin Castle is on the pricier side, making it ideal for high-end events such as corporate retreats or elegant weddings. The castle can accommodate up to 30 guests for an overnight stay, making it a perfect venue for an intimate yet luxurious celebration.

Location: County Limerick 

Capacity/Rooms: 30 guests 

Price Range: $20,000 for a 2-night minimum stay 

The Black Castle

For a truly unique experience, The Black Castle in Tipperary offers an intimate and quiet stay. If you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway or even a secluded wedding venue, this 16th-century Gaelic castle could be the perfect choice.

With a strict maximum capacity of two guests, it’s an ideal retreat for those who want privacy and solitude. The castle boasts stunning 360-degree views, ensuring you don’t miss any of the scenic beauty.

Best of all, The Black Castle offers great value for an unforgettable experience.

Location: County Tipperary 

Capacity/Rooms: 1 bedroom, 2 guests 

Price Range: $380 USD per night

My Tips for Renting a Castle in Ireland

Negotiate: Since most castles are privately owned and have been restored, there’s often room for negotiation, especially during the off-season. Instead of booking through platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb, try reaching out to the owner directly for a better rate.

Location Isn’t Everything: While it may seem important to be close to local attractions, the charm of renting a castle in Ireland is the castle itself. You’ll likely spend most of your time enjoying the historical experience rather than commuting to nearby destinations. So, don’t stress too much about the castle’s proximity to other tourist spots.

Check the Food Situation: Castles tend to be in remote locations, so food delivery might not be as quick as in the city. Plan ahead by cooking in the castle or bringing pre-cooked meals that can be easily heated. Some castles may even restrict access to the kitchen, so it’s best to confirm with the host before finalizing your booking.

That’s it! You now have everything you need to rent your own castle in Ireland. Share this guide with your friends or family and make it a memorable experience together!