Ireland’s newest castle hotel is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2018 in the lush County Kildare, roughly an hour from Dublin. Originally built in 1180, Kilkea Castle and its 180-acre estate have undergone an extensive five-year, $30 million restoration. The property combines historical charm with modern luxury, featuring 11 beautifully appointed rooms inside the castle itself, along with a grand function hall, spa facilities, multiple dining options, bars, and a golf club supported by 33 self-catering lodge suites.
The castle courtyard has been adapted to offer additional accommodations in a converted carriage house and stable area. Many of the 24 bedrooms and suites retain original architectural details—exposed wooden beams, handcrafted wrought iron and other period features—while benefiting from contemporary comforts and stylish interiors.
Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Drawing Room or relax by the fire in the Castle Lounge. For a more casual atmosphere, The Keep operates as an authentic Irish pub, serving a selection of Irish whiskies and Guinness. Dining options include Hermione’s Restaurant, which presents a blend of national favorites and refined dishes, and the Dining Room, which overlooks the rose garden and offers a sophisticated menu of international cuisine.
The estate’s grounds include carefully tended gardens, natural woodland and a river that enhances the landscape and plays a role on the golf course. The new 18-hole, par-70 parkland course integrates the river as a natural hazard and features two lakes, a driving range, a practice putting green and a clubhouse with views over the ninth hole. A well-equipped golf shop serves players’ needs.
A wide range of activities is available to guests seeking outdoor adventure or leisurely pastimes. On-site options include skeet shooting, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, cycling, archery, tennis, falconry and fishing. For those focused on wellness, the property provides yoga and Pilates sessions alongside a curated menu of spa treatments. Bird watching and scenic walking paths invite quieter exploration of the estate’s flora and fauna.
Kilkea Castle also caters to business and private events, offering meeting and conference facilities suitable for executive retreats, weddings and other gatherings. Whether guests arrive to play golf, enjoy country pursuits, relax in the spa or immerse themselves in historic surroundings, the restored castle delivers a refined blend of tradition and modern hospitality.