Irish Castle Hotels That Won't Break The Bank
Affordable Castles in Ireland
You have to stay in castle in Ireland for at least one night during your time here. It's such a special experience to sleep in 500 year old castle.
Places like Ashford Castle , Dromoland Castle and Adare Manor have nightly rates in the four figures. But fortunately for most of us, there are other castle hotels in Ireland that deliver a genuine castle experience for a more agreeable price.
Here are some of the best & affordable castles in Ireland.
Near Dublin
Clontarf Castle, Dublin from €200/night
The most convenient castle stay in Ireland. Clontarf is 20 minutes from the city centre & Dublin airport. The castle dates to the 12th century (the current building is largely 19th century) and has 111 individually decorated rooms.
It's a great choice for the night before you fly home since it is close to the Dublin Airport. Try to get a table at Chubby's in nearby Clontarf. You probably won't be able to, but if you can, the Irish Times calls it one of Ireland's best restaurants.
"Great spot. 20 minutes from city and airport on the coast."
Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, Co Dublin from €150/night
Killiney Bay is one of the most scenic stretches of the Dublin coastline. The Fitzpatrick dates from 1741 and has prices that regularly come in under €200 in the off-season.
One of the more underrated options near Dublin, probably because Killiney doesn't get the same tourist footfall as the city centre. But it's Dublin most expensive area to live and is absolutely gorgeous. I lead The Vista walking tour in this area because I love it so much.
"We have stayed at the Fitzpatrick two times always a very pleasant stay."
Kilkea Castle, Co Kildare from €250/night
Dating to 1180, the castle itself is the attraction here. You don't need to add sightseeing. Instead plan to spend the whole day in its 180 acres, golf course, falconry, horse riding, archery, tennis, spa, and restaurants. If you want to sleep in an actual castle room within easy reach of Dublin, this is probably the best option. Could be a great first or last night in Ireland, the airport is only an hour away.
"“Gorgeous property! We did the falcon experience, escape room, and ate dinner on the property. Watch the sunset from the rear patio bar. Everyone was wonderful "
Cabra Castle, Co Cavan from €175/night
About 90 minutes from Dublin, in Cavan's Dún a Rí Forest Park. It's a popular wedding venue. The castle is set on 100 acres of parkland. This is one of the most affordable proper castle experiences within reach of Dublin.
The West Of Ireland
Abbeyglen Castle, Clifden, Co Galway from €150/night
Tucked into the hills just above Clifden on the Connemara coast. A family run ivy clad castle with a champagne welcome by the owner, open turf fires, fountains, music at night. This is an experience, not just a stay. Reasonably priced.
"Mix of old and modern, beautiful grounds. Champagne toast greeting, local history narration by the owner. Very personal. Intimate. Room was large, claw-foot tub. Dinner and breakfast were fine dining options, all delicious."
Belleek Castle, Ballina, Co Mayo from €250/night
Belleek has that real castle feel on gorgeous grounds, but still only a few minutes from the lovely river town of Ballina. This comment sums it up better than I can.
"More historic, authentic castle feel than anywhere else we stayed. Best dinner of the three. Tucked away in beautiful wooded grounds with walking trails. Amazing dining at the library restaurant. The bed was not as comfortable, but this castle had the most historic charm."
Between photos & directions, your phone will need charging in Ireland. This is my trusty INIU Portable charger that I've been using for years. Don't leave home without it.
Castles in the South & Southwest of Ireland
Ballyseede Castle, Tralee, Co Kerry from €200/night
Kerry's only castle hotel, and the name that comes up most often when people ask about affordable castle stays in Ireland. Set on 30 acres outside Tralee, with resident Irish Wolfhounds roaming the grounds. Tralee isn't as famous as Killarney but it sits between Dingle and the Ring of Kerry. Ideal for a night before going to the Cliffs of Moher the next day.
"They even have the dogs roaming but not inside the hotel. The food was reasonable, which actually shocked us. The breakfast was delicious."
Waterford Castle, Co Waterford from €300/night
A castle on a private island in Ireland. Just give your credit card details now! The castle has its own car ferry which only takes 3 minutes. Adults only, with a golf course, clay shooting and excellent restaurant on site.
"Quiet, quaint, on its own island. The grounds were just lovely to explore. I couldn't have asked for a better castle experience."
Kinnity Castle, Co Offaly from €200/night
In the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, dating to 1209. One of the more affordable castle hotels in Ireland, and one of the more atmospheric too. The grounds are beautiful, the afternoon tea gets consistent praise, and horse riding on the estate is available. Also has the distinction of two officially haunted rooms (Geraldine and Elizabeth) if you want to lean into the history.
"One of the more affordable castle stays we found on our first trip to Ireland. We had a great stay and are now planning our wedding there."
The Northwest
Lough Eske Castle, Co Donegal from €250/night
A 5 star castle hotel in Donegal on the shores of Lough Eske near Donegal Town. Irish people know all about this one because it's so popular. Worth a mention that it feels more like a modern resort than a traditional castle so perhaps not the most atmospheric option. But 5 star luxury, lakeside grounds, sculpture trail and spa are the real draws. If you're spending time in Donegal regardless, it's a good base.
"Make sure you walk around the grounds and by the lake."
Markree Castle, Co Sligo from €300/night
One of the more overlooked castle options in Ireland. It's a 17th century castle on 500 acres. There's only 31 rooms, so it's intimate. In the overlooked Sligo, a county I love and wrote about here.
"Very nice but still felt castley not completely overhauled like some of the fancy ones. And it wasn't too expensive. Good food too."
Northern Ireland
Ballygally Castle, Co Antrim from €150/night
This 17th century castle is on the Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland so the place to stay as you travel on this gorgeous route. It has won many awards and often named in the top places to stay. Sea views across the road.
A Few Things Worth Knowing Before You Book
Rural Locations
Most castle hotels are in rural areas, you'll need a rental car.
Local Weddings
Irish people love castles too and have their weddings there so don't be surprised if weekend nights are booked out. If you are there when a wedding is on, you'll have a fabulous local experience.
Breakfast
Breakfast is often included, which makes the room rate look better value than it first appears. Worth factoring in when comparing prices.
The Road Less Travelled
Some of these more affordable castles are in less visited areas like Roscommon, Sligo, Waterford. That's a bonus for me, it gets you seeing more of authentic Ireland and the castles themselves are the attraction.
Off Peak Bargains
The same room that costs €180 in November may cost €350 or more in August.
Book Early
If you're going in high summer and the castle experience matters, book as early as you can, availability goes quickly.
Still Not Sure Where To Stay?
Book a trip planning call with me and we'll plan your perfect itinerary.
Ireland by Locals
