Dromoland Castle Newmarket

Ireland’s most magical address, Dromoland Castle has been welcoming guests since the 16th century. The ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland, we’ve got nobility and hospitality in our DNA.

From the imposing baronial façade to our startling interiors, you’ll find a world of historic grandeur underpinned by the finest modern comforts. With lavish decor, indulgent dining, fabulous views and magnificent bedrooms, this is a place to feel at home.

Behind our warm Irish welcome is the belief that every guest is royalty. Stroll the 450-acre estate. Tee off on our world class golf course. Take afternoon tea by a roaring fire. Relax in our intimate spa.

Enjoy delicious cuisine. No matter what your preference, at Dromoland Castle there’s no escaping the sense that you are walking in the shadows of kings.

The pinnacle of excellence, come in the knowledge that all your expectations will be met. A remarkable retreat with an easy elegance, it’s time to make Dromoland Castle a part of your story.

Rooms & Suites
From lakeside look-outs to sumptuous suites, canopied beds to breakfast-in-bed, bubble baths to lazy lie-ins (not forgetting secret staircases to love nests), each room at Dromoland Castle has been thoughtfully designed to meet with royal approval.

With sumptuous furnishings, exquisite bathrooms, relaxing colour schemes, inviting beds and beautiful views, each meticulously refurbished room celebrates our Irish heritage while exceeding your sense of expectation.

Brian Boru Suite
Named after Ireland’s only High King, whose ancestors built Dromoland Castle, our premier suite really is fit for royalty.

Intimate, luxurious and glamorous, the soothing duck egg and gold palette is carried through from the lavish sitting room to the spacious bedroom with its magnificent four-poster bed, chandeliers and separate dressing room.

Irresistibly comfortable, large windows flood the suite with natural light, offering sweeping views over Dromoland Lough and across the estate. The impressive bathroom includes a double shower room and spectacular freestanding slipper bath that’s just perfect for a soak before dinner.

Grania O’Brien Suite
At Dromoland you can expect flawless service, luxury accommodation and a comfortable atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

Our dedicated housekeeping staff keeps your suite clean and beautiful and ready for whatever your day has in store, whether its bringing everyone together around the dining table or choosing to dine in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant offering you apartment living at its best.

We have a number of options from our two room apartment the Grania O’Brien Suite to exclusive private baronial sections within the historical 16th century Caste, we are delighted to offer a various accommodation options, all to ensure your comfort and privacy which staying at the Castle.

Executive Staterooms
Our Executive Staterooms combine five-star opulence with our Irish heritage. Unique in design and dimension, each beautiful Executive Stateroom comes complete with its own intimate seating and dining area.

Created for comfort, indulgence and relaxation, the luxury fabrics and gorgeous furnishings are matched by contemporary details and breath taking views. Fabulous beds, exquisite bathrooms and state-of-the-art technology ensure a restful and rewarding stay.

Deluxe
Overlooking the lake and Dromoland’s gardens, our Deluxe bedrooms have been individually designed as restful retreats.

Spacious and indulgent, they marry contemporary design with classic elements, through a luxurious combination of specially commissioned wall fabric to historically-inspired furniture. State-of-the-art technology and opulent bathrooms ensure a blissful stay.

Queen Anne Classic
Bright, spacious, and luxurious, our Queen Anne Rooms blend five-star sophistication with castle heritage. Recently renovated, these spacious rooms feature soothing colour schemes, bespoke wool carpets, sumptuous fabrics, state-of-the-art technology and glamorous bathrooms. Designed for indulgence and relaxation, you’ll feel right at home.

Dining
We’ve always excelled at the finer things in life. That’s why dining at Dromoland Castle is such a pleasure. Renowned for our award-winning cuisine, Executive Head Chef David McCann has been impressing guests for over 20 years with his elegant and delicious cooking.

Scouring the countryside for the finest artisan producers and growers, his menus are a role call of Ireland’s very best ingredients. Setting the standard for dining, David blends classical training with a flair for the contemporary, delivering flawless food no matter your mood.

Dress up and dine in luxury in the Earl of Thomond , our landmark restaurant where fabulous food and silver service combine. Choose a bottle of something special from our extensive wine cellar. Linger in The Gallery over Clare crab claws and chardonnay.

Snag a fireside sofa for an Afternoon Tea extravaganza. Refuel in The Fig Tree Restaurant with a relaxed steak and salad at The Country Club. Row out onto the lake with a champagne picnic. (Or sneak away to your bedroom for a private dinner à deux!)

No matter how you dine, when you dine, or where you dine, creative Irish cuisine – underpinned by impeccable service – is at the heart of everything we do at Dromoland Castle. This is Irish country living at its very best.

Earl of Thomond Restaurant
Dromoland Castle’s flagship restaurant, the Earl of Thomond, is celebrated in culinary circles for its panache, its elegance, its innovation. Delightfully relaxed, a meal here will be a highlight of your stay with us.

Executive Head Chef David McCann marries classical techniques with the most outstanding Irish produce from sea and land with heavenly results. Prepare to be dazzled by exquisite local flavours, imaginative wine pairings, impeccable service and a dash of Dromoland magic.

Offering an authentic taste of Ireland surrounded by Venetian silk, sparkling chandeliers and sweeping views of the estate, there are many restaurants in Ireland, but nowhere quite like The Earl of Thomond. À la carte and vegetarian menus are available.

The Gallery
One of the most beloved spots in the Castle, the impressive Gallery captures the essence of Dromoland’s magic. Sink into a deep fire-side sofa or cosy armchair and settle in for a morning’s reading, replenished by coffee and scones or a light lunch.

Relax here after a day’s activities with a casual evening meal, afternoon tea or cocktail and a snack. Surrounded by beautiful antiques, hunting mounts, ancestral portraits and the comfiest of furnishings, don’t be surprised if you linger longer than you intended!

The Cocktail Bar
Intimate, intricate, inviting, The Cocktail Bar at Dromoland was once the O’Brien family’s wonderful library. A fantastical octagonal room with cosy window seats overlooking the Castle lawns, you can enjoy a casual meal or snack from The Gallery menu or simply sit back with a drink while soaking up the regal views. An extensive cocktail list is available alongside beers on tap and a superb selection of wine, Irish whiskey and gin.

Dealers Choice in the Cocktail Bar
“The past cannot be changed, the future is in your power”. Tarot cards might spark thoughts of mystical predictions, soothsayers and crystal balls, but, at Dromoland Castle, the deck has been given a whole new meaning.

Our new Dealer’s Choice experience at Dromoland’s Cocktail Bar elevates the traditional cocktail encounter into a fun game of chance. Forget ordering your usual cocktail from a drinks menu.

Instead, ask to play Dealer’s Choice with Dromoland’s unique cocktail-themed tarot cards. Each card features a bespoke illustration with a special connection to the Castle, as well as information about a delicious cocktail.

Dromoland’s Own Oracle
Dromoland’s drinks’ oracle, and cocktail supervisor, Alex Beyou began work on our Dealer’s Choice project over two years ago. “I spent some time in Dublin, calling into the top bars, examining their cocktail lists and observing their techniques.

I wanted to get a feel of what was out there. My ultimate goal was to create a new experience within the bar at Dromoland; something completely different to any other bar that guests can take away and remember as a highlight of their trip.”

Hailing from France, Alex has spent four years in Dromoland’s Cocktail Bar. Collaborating with former Dromoland employee, Coleman Costello, each card has an illustration hand-drawn by Coleman, that takes inspiration from around the estate.

“We wanted the Tarot Cards to paint a picture of Dromoland, of its history, its character and the tales that resonate with our guests. The next step was to tie each cocktail into the part of the Dromoland story it was telling.”

Each cocktail is expertly crafted, all house specialities. Favourites include ‘The Fool’, a Patron Reposado based cocktail illustrated with a drawing of the Jackalope, which sits behind the bar and has been a great conversation piece in Dromoland’s Cocktail Bar for decades.

Guests can savour the experience in the intimate surrounds of our inviting Cocktail Bar, once the O’Brien family’s wonderful library, offering cosy views across Dromoland’s fine estate.

Neatly packaged in a smart box, decks of our Dealer’s Choice cocktail tarot cards may also be purchased at Dromoland Castle, making the perfect novelty gift or souvenir.

Afternoon Tea
A long-standing tradition at Dromoland Castle, we aim to impress with this fun and indulgent ritual. Named for a long-standing member of our staff, Mrs White’s Afternoon Tea, is a feast fit for royalty.

You’ll enjoy the prettiest selection of treats: scrumptious finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and homemade jams, delicate pastries, our signature tea brack and the sweetest confections.

Of course, our specially selected loose leaf teas from around the world are served in sparkling silver teapots, alongside the prettiest china. An unmissable five-star indulgence we know you’ll love! Mrs White’s Afternoon Tea is available from 7th January – November and served from 1pm – 4pm.

Figtree Restaurant
Bright and sunny in summer, comfy and cosy in winter, The Fig Tree Restaurant in the Golf & Country Club is always buzzing. Lively and welcoming, you’ll find golfers, locals and hotel guests relaxing, chatting and analysing their games over delicious food and drinks.

From sandwiches to steaks and salads, fish and chips to chowder, our delicious menu offers big-flavoured crowd-pleasers using outstanding Irish ingredients. Relaxed and buzzy, The Fig Tree is the ideal spot for a light lunch, post-golf snack or casual dinner. No matter what the weather expect a warm welcome.

Picnics
What finer way to enjoy Dromoland Castle’s magnificent estate than a private lunch outdoors. We’d love to pack a picnic basket for you, ensuring a true taste of Ireland in the great outdoors. (Better still, why not arrange to take one with you as you head off on a day trip to explore the West of Ireland?)

We’ll assemble a bespoke gourmet hamper that meets your requirements, whether that’s filling fare after a morning’s walking in the spectacular Clare countryside or a more decadent offering, with a bottle of Champagne or your favourite wine tucked in for good measure!

Occassions
Significant birthday? Family reunion? Proposal? Wedding anniversary? Business event? At Dromoland Castle we know a thing or two about special occassions and have quite the reputation for throwing epic parties.

With our royal heritage, sensational food, impeccable service, attention to detail and luxury around every corner you’re guaranteed a tailor-made celebration to impress. Talk to us about your upcoming event and let us work our Dromoland magic to turn your event into a truly special occasion.

Weddings
At Dromoland Castle we know that your wedding is your once-in-a-lifetime moment. Your happy ever after. We’re the dream weavers. The romantics. The perfectionists. And we’re here to help you plan the most beautiful of celebrations.

Ireland’s most magical address, Dromoland Castle promises history and grandeur and luxury all wrapped up in a truly bespoke experience.

Perhaps you’d like to arrive by horse drawn carriage and exchange vows in our Walled Garden. Maybe you’re dreaming of a champagne reception on the lawns before feasting and dancing the night away in our magnificent Brian Boru Hall.

Daring to dream of a one-of-a-kind marquee or extravagant structure on the lawns? We’re here to deliver on your dreams, working with top specialists. With the majestic Castle as your backdrop, your five-star wedding day can be as intimate or grand, traditional or informal as your hearts’ desire.

Noted for our sensational cuisine, your Dromoland Castle wedding feast will be complemented by unparalleled service, luxurious accommodation, gorgeous views, opulent public areas, and the dreamiest settings for your photos.

With decades of experience creating the most astonishing weddings, our wedding team has perfected the art of hosting, from first consultation to first dance. Extravagant, extraordinary, exceptional. Trust us with your wedding dreams, then relax knowing all your expectations will be exceeded.

Meetings & Events
A prestigious venue. World class facilities. Impeccable service. Extraordinary surroundings. An event at Dromoland Castle will always impress. At the heart of Ireland’s social and business calendar, anything is possible at Dromoland Castle.

Our purpose-built conference centre and elegant meeting rooms can facilitate groups from 20 to 450, from top level meetings and gala dinners to conferences and product launches, ensuring a dazzling event you can be proud of.

Offering the latest audio visual technology and complimentary high speed WiFi throughout the Castle, we’re ready to meet your exacting requirements. (We’re pretty good at playtime too, with a glorious 450-acre estate that’s perfect for team building or unwinding. How about a spot of golf, fishing, falconry or clay pigeon shooting for your delegates or guests?)

At Dromoland Castle, our drive for excellence never stops. From conferences to conventions, celebrations to seminars, small groups to grand gatherings, we treat every event with the same warm service and attention to detail that we’re famous for.

With extraordinary surroundings and an exceptional team, a Dromoland Castle event is simply in a league of its own.

Your Event at Dromoland
With an address that impresses, The Brian Boru Centre lends the cachet of Dromoland Castle to your business seminar, exhibition, conference or banquet. A conference centre like no other, the Castle’s magnificent purpose-built Brain Boru Hall has all the presence and panache a high-profile event deserves.

With its 30 foot ceilings, stage and freight-size mahogany arched doorways, we can accommodate almost any kind of structure, and we love a challenge… Need the space to host a fashion show or conference, gala dinner or global product launch? No bother!

We can dress The Hall in whatever theme you require, from ultra elegant ballroom to high-tech business space. We like looking good and we’ll make sure your company or business looks good too.

Private dinner or corporate gathering, trust our exceptional team and you’ll be guaranteed an outstanding event with five-star flair. We’ll work with you and your ideas to deliver an experience like no other.

Behind our warm Irish welcome is the belief that every guest is royalty. Dromoland Castle and its 450 acres estate has been a location for glorious celebrations and historic meetings for many centuries, isn’t it time you welcomed your own guests to Ireland’s most magical address?

Team Building
With 7,703 square feet of floor space, graceful Gothic architecture, a welcoming team of professionals and outstanding banqueting, the five-star Brian Boru International Conference Centre is a luxurious setting for your special gathering or corporate event in Ireland.

Accommodating 80 – 450 people, the impressive hall, with its striking Gothic entrance and gallery, can be configured to suit any requirement.

With extensive props and state-of-the-art sound and visual aids, we’ve accommodated everything from fashion shows to tech unveilings, car launches to orchestras. Dream big – or small ­– and let the Dromoland Castle team work our magic.

Spa & Wellness
A visit to The Spa at Dromoland Castle is like stopping time. The ultimate indulgence for the weary traveller, our tranquil sanctuary offers intimate and serene escapism within 16th century castle walls.

Away from the stresses of modern life, our team of skilled therapists invite you to surrender to the pleasures of our soothing and luxurious treatments. Offering pampering and relaxation, you’ll find hands-on treatments delivered with expertise and care.

Each of our carefully selected offerings uses Elemis products designed to relax, revitalise and restore your body and spirit. With six treatment rooms and two dedicated manicure and pedicure rooms, we invite you to recharge, recover and rest in pure tranquillity.

Spend time with us, as we take you on a journey of escapism, relaxation and indulgence , drift away, feeling relaxed and renewed ready for anything.

The Spa at Dromoland Castle comprises six luxurious treatment rooms, including a couples’ room. Linger a while in our heated massage chairs with magazines to browse, herbal teas, fresh fruit and soothing music. Well, what’s the point in rushing back to reality?

Golf
Every golfer dreams of playing at Dromoland Castle Golf & Country Club. Designed by Ron Kirby and JB Carr, the impressive 18-hole 6,824 yards par 72 championship course is set on the magnificent 450-acre estate of Dromoland Castle.

Combining gentle hills, ancient trees and unexpected water hazards, the immaculately maintained course presents challenges and thrills for golfers of all abilities. One of the finest parkland courses in Ireland, it’s matched by superb practice facilities and a welcoming club house experience.

The Golf Course
Set on the 450-acre estate of Dromoland Castle, our impressive parkland course combines gentle hills, ancient trees and unexpected water hazards to deliver a demanding and exhilarating course.

Designed by internationally renowned Ron Kirby and JB Carr, the championship course plays over 6,824 yards for men and 5,242 for ladies, presenting an enjoyable challenge to both amateurs and professionals.

The Golf Academy
A state-of-the-art practice facility on Dromoland Castle’s magnificent estate, there’s no finer place to raise your game.

After his incredible revamping of the Dromoland Course, Ron Kirby turned his hand to designing the most modern golf practice facility in Ireland. The stone clad, slate roofed structure houses 9 driving range bays and a fully enclosed teaching bay.

All the bays are fitted with Golf-Tech’s second generation fully automated ‘Power Tees’ – alleviating the need for bending down for your next ball and allowing more enjoyable and better quality practice time.

With 4 bunkered target greens ranging between 100 and 250 metres and at a total length of 300 metres, the driving range will provide a wide variety of shot selection.

During the summer months, the two 500 square metre grass teeing areas are open for use. This allows golfers instant feedback from conditions exactly as they would find on the fairways on the golf course.

The short game area includes two USGA specification greens with the same Penn A4/G6 Creeping Bent grass as used on the golf course: a 500 square metre Putting Green to hone the perfect stroke before you tackle Kirby’s greens on the course, and a 450 square metre Bunker and Chipping Green.

The Bunker and Chipping Green offer a number of lies, slopes and grass lengths to practice from. In addition to a well-shaped, large greenside bunker, there is also a riveted face links style bunker, modelled on the famous ‘Road Hole’ bunker on the 17th at St Andrews.

Should your game require a little fine-tuning, why not book some expert tuition with the professionals at our School of Golf?

Nearby Course & Maps
“My favourite place to play golf is in Ireland,” says Bill Murray. “It’s the most beautiful country to play golf in. And when you come as a guest, you’re treated like a king.” Home to over 400 courses, Dromoland Castle puts you in easy reach of some of the country’s finest.

Combining the historical parklands of Dromoland Castle with the wild and wonderful links of Ireland’s west coast makes a wonderful partnership for any golfer.

Links land may be a rarity, but with Ireland’s windswept coastline, the natural conditions of the Wild Atlantic Way mean some of the greatest and most challenging links courses in the world are here on the doorstep of Dromoland Castle.

Lahinch Golf Club
Lahinch Golf Club, in County Clare, is a popular spot for visiting golfers, attracting tour professionals like Luke Donald, Davis Love and Jim Furyk, with Phil Mickelson an Honorary Lifetime Member.

The Old Course is home to the South of Ireland Amateur Championship, where many of Ireland’s top golfers first tasted success. Winners of note include Darren Clarke (1990), Paul McGinley (1991) and Graeme McDowell (2000), with Padraig Harrington finishing runner-up here on two occasions.

Ranked no. 5 on Golf Digest’s “Top 100 golf courses in Ireland”, the Old Course offers up a unique combination of towering sand dunes, blind shots and the unpredictable Atlantic breeze. Lahinch’s Castle Course is interesting too, though not quite as remarkable at the Old Course.

Ballybunion Golf Club
With two beautifully maintained links golf courses, Ballybunion’s picturesque setting makes it a perennial favourite. Especially popular with American visitors the guest book boasts some of the world’s top players, alongside US president, Bill Clinton, who played here in 1998.

Consistently ranked as one of the world’s top ten golf courses, The Old Course represents a breath-taking challenge. Set amongst towering dunes by the roaring Atlantic Ocean, Tom Watson famously declared: “Nobody can call himself a golfer until he has played at Ballybunion; you would think the game originated there!”

Tralee Golf Course
Another Kerry favourite, this challenging golf course offers up spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean from every hole. Dotted with historical landmarks, the course includes a tower behind the 3rd green that dates back to the 1100s.

A deceptively flat front 9 is followed by a challenging back 9, ensuring a thrilling game. “I designed the first nine but surely God designed the back nine,” said course designer Arnold Palmer, of his first, and arguably his best, European designed course.

Trump International Doonbeg
Owned by US President, Donald Trump, Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg is one of Ireland’s top links resorts.

The impressive Martin Hawtree-designed links course is influenced by the wilderness surrounding it – winds whistling in from the Atlantic Ocean and massive sand dunes that bound its 400 acres. Views of the ocean accompany 16 of the 18 holes, ensuring a challenging course that is both spectacular and satisfying.

Adare Manor
Ireland’s newest golf course, redesigned by Tom Fazio for 2018, is located on the grounds of Adare Manor in County Limerick.

Completely redesigned and remodelled, the magnificent parkland course is cut through by the River Maigue and enjoys water features at 14 holes and acres of mature woodland. With 50 green keepers, the conditions are immaculate at this smart new course.

Activities
A magnificent playground of country pursuits, Dromoland Castle’s 450-acre estate offers up so many opportunities for fun. Surrounded by County Clare’s rolling hills, your stay can be as chilled out or high energy as your wish.

Make like a royal and schedule some archery, clay shooting or falconry. Our resident hawks, falcons and owls will take your breath away. Plenty of local wildlife call our estate home too, so you may just end up sharing your walk with some deer, pheasants, squirrels or ducks!

Majestic Dromoland Lough is excellent for trout fishing or boating, with the added bonus of distractingly good views of the Castle. Take a woodland jog before breakfast, head off on a cycle around the grounds or enjoy a romantic stroll in the Walled Garden after dinner.

Our grounds and gardens are simply magical (well, they do share the same designer as the Gardens of Versailles!), with fabulous historic details hidden around every bend.

Dromoland Castle’s 18-hole championship golf course is famous for good reason. The par 72 course, redesigned by Ron Kirby and the late JB Carr, wraps around the historic estate and is both thoughtful and challenging.

We’re rather proud of our state-of-the-art practice facility too, which has 10 fully automated driving bays, complete with Golf-Tech’s fully automated Power Tees.

With a swimming pool, tennis courts, gym, sauna, steam room, go-karting for kids and a beautiful spa, we know you’ll enjoy every minute of our five-star offering.

Fishing
Casting off in front of Dromoland Castle is an experience you are unlikely to forget. Our beautiful lake, Dromoland Lough, is generously stocked with trout, perch and other course fish, making it a perfect spot for keen or novice fishers.

Never fished before? No worries. Our resident ghillies are here to help, guiding you in the art of casting, placing bait, and, hopefully, landing a catch!

Maybe you’d like to fish from the lakeshore or cast-off in the middle of the lake from one of the estate boats. All fish are returned alive to the water, but, should you fancy a meal to remember, why not ask for your catch to be brought to the kitchen and cooked to your requirements by chef.

Archery
Archery has been practiced for hundreds of years and there’s something extra special about drawing your bow and shooting an arrow at Dromoland Castle.

A noble and ancient sport, it’s a great and gentle family activity that all ages can enjoy together. You’ll receive expert tuition and guidance, ensuring your arrows are on target. Each person shoots 30 arrows and the activity lasts from 40 to 50 minutes.

Falconry
Offering you the chance to enjoy magnificent wildlife and ancient woodlands, falconry is an unmissable part of the Dromoland Castle experience. One of our guests most-loved pursuits, you’ll get up close and personal with mesmerising falcons, hawks and owls in the Castle grounds.

Wonderful for a family or corporate activity, our five-star falconry experience will give you access to the world of these magnificent birds of prey and the unique relationship they have with their falconers.

Our Falconry School can facilitate guests’ requirements and experiences can be tailored to meet your needs, with activity duration around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Horse Riding
Dromoland Castle works with excellent local equestrian centres to offer alternative riding experiences on Irish farmland and green pastures. Cost from €65 per person per hour based on minimum of 2 people, including equipment and instruction.

River Ride Trail
The River ride 1 hour trail is suitable for adults and children from five years of age. Riders enjoy county Clare’s natural hidden treasures on horseback . You will take a trip back in time as we ride past the authentic medieval 15th Century Castlefergus Castle.

Ramble down the country lane onto our picturesque meadows and farm past sheep and cattle grazing. Ride alongside the meandering banks of the river Rine as we then make our way back to the Equestrian centre.

Castlefergus Classic
Castlefergus Classic (1.5hr)This is our most popular trek. Experience a tour of our 100 acre working sheep farm guided by a member of the O’Brien family.

Ride through the sheep with their baby lambs at foot in the spring and summer months. Experience ancient Irish folklore as we pass by the ring-forts (fairy forts). Enjoy panoramic views of the farm.

Ancient Woodland Trail
Ancient Woodland Trail (2hrs)This trek includes the Castlefergus classic and also a relaxed trail through our charming Irish woodland. Ride past the unspoilt ring-forts in the woods and stroll up along the country lane guided by the old castle wall.

Discover for yourself on horseback the forty shades of green at Castlefergus Riding Stables. Our reliable Irish bred horses and ponies leave you with unforgettable memories of medieval castles, folklore, and rolling meadows.

The Fairy Woodland
The fairy woodland trail is a magical pony ride for children to experience from four years of age in the enchanted woods.

Horse & Carriage Rides
Step back in time and climb aboard the Dromoland Castle Horse & Carriage Ride. Take a 60-minute ride around the estate and sit back as you learn about the rich history of the castle and families that called it home.

You’ll sit cosily in your carriage while your jarvey navigates the Castle’s paths, regaling you with tales of royalty and celebrity, drama and intrigue. Carriages operate 7 days per week and are fully covered when rain is forecast.

Estate Walks & Cycles
Part of Dromoland Castle’s magic is its magnificent estate. Standing sentinel over 450-acres, the fairy tale stronghold is a joy to behold from its surrounding lands, especially when these grounds hold their own secrets and thrills.

Pathways criss-cross the rolling land, meandering through woodlands, around the lake and beyond the fairways. Perhaps you wish to start your day with a morning jog.

Maybe you’d like an invigorating afternoon walk or romantic after-dinner stroll. Or how about a fast-paced cycle through the woods astride one of our complementary guest bicycles.

A castle this grand deserves enchanting gardens and ours don’t disappoint. Based on designs by Andre Le Notre, who planned the Gardens at Versailles, you’ll find unexpected features at every turn, from the picture-perfect lily pond and sundial, to our beautiful walled garden and dramatic yew tree gallery that dates back to 1740.

But wait until you discover the estate’s Temple of Mercury, a hilltop memorial that holds a fascinating secret…A walking map of the estate is available at reception.

Clay Shooting
A favourite country pursuit of royalty, clay pigeon shooting offers you the chance to shoot flying targets in the air. Dromoland Castle’s leafy estate makes an atmospheric setting for this fun sport, which can be enjoyed all year around.

Using international sporting traps for groups or individuals, it presents an engrossing and skilled challenge. All that’s required are calm concentration, a keen eye and quick reactions.

The more competitive of hotel residents will enjoy perfecting your aim, timing your shots and counting up your ‘kills’. Of course these are clay ‘pigeons’, not real birds, making it a suitable activity for all ages and abilities.

Each clay pigeon session includes 30 clays and can last from 40 minutes to an hour, depending on your party size.

Destination Dromoland
Perfectly placed to explore the South and South West of Ireland and The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s ultimate coastal road trip, Dromoland Castle is your gateway to Ireland’s riches.

Jaw-dropping views, wild beaches, splendid lakes, handsome villages and lively festivals can be found close by, seducing with their colours, offering up an authentic Irish experience and leaving memories that will last a lifetime.

And you won’t have to go far to experience the essence of Ireland’s magic. Dromoland Castle in County Clare is close to both the UNESCO World Heritage Cliffs of Moher and The Burren, an ancient lunar-like limestone landscape.

Ireland’s rich history can be explored close to the Castle too, from the medieval town of Ennis to a medieval feast at Bunratty Castle and a stroll past the Georgian buildings of Limerick City.

Dive into Ireland’s ancient heritage with a day trip to the magical Aran Islands and music-filled streets of Galway City or make for the coast and breathe in the purest air rushing over the Atlantic spray.

Whether you fancy an exhilarating outdoor adventure or a cosy encounter in a music-filled pub, a quiet walk on a deserted beach or a tasting tour of Ireland’s amazing produce, we’ve got the best of Ireland right here on Dromoland Castle’s doorstep.

Concierge Secrets
Early risers can get up close and personal with the Estate deer who roam freely on the grounds before the bustle of the day begins – the stillness of early morning combined with the beauty of these creatures is truly breath-taking.

Take a trip to the Loop Head Peninsula where the River Shannon meets the Atlantic Ocean. The iconic lighthouse tower is open to the public (seasonal) and from the balcony at the very top you can see as far south as the Blasket Islands in Kerry and as far north as the Twelve Bens in Galway.

Fanore Beach is located within the heart of the Burren and is one of nine sites of geological importance that form the basis of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Global Geopark.

Fanore is a relatively unspoiled long narrow Atlantic-facing beach behind a broad expanse of sand dunes with the Burren as a spectacular backdrop.

The beach is close to Fanore, a pretty little village with a coffee shop, pub, shop and campsite. Popular with walkers, surfers and tourists it also draws many botanists, thanks to its position on the edge of the Burren.

An Féar Gorta Tea Rooms are located in the picturesque village of Ballyvaughan overlooking Galway Bay. This delightful stone restaurant dates back to 1790, when it was built as a residence for ‘coast security officers’.

Nearly two centuries later it was bought in a derelict condition by the O’Donoghue family, who rebuilt it and opened it as a tea room and gardens in 1981.

In fine weather choose a table in the beautiful back garden or the conservatory; otherwise the homely dining room offers comfort and shelter. With lovely old furniture and a tempting display of home-baked treats it’s an atmospheric spot for a light bite.

Castle & Grounds
Spend time enjoying Dromoland Castle’s magnificent estate and the lands that noble families once called home. Pathways criss-cross the demesne, meandering through woodlands, around the lake and beyond the fairways.

A woodland stroll will reveal hidden secrets, from woodland creatures to foxes and deer, hares, rabbits and pheasants to a hermit’s grotto and the mysterious Temple of Mercury.

Marvel at the picture-perfect lily pond, bug hotel (a favourite with children!), beautiful walled garden and the impressive yew tree gallery that dates back to 1740. Walk, jog or cycle, but, whatever you do, don’t forget to row out into the middle of Dromoland Lough. The views of the Castle are simply perfect from here.

Shannon Airport
Dromoland Castle lies just 8 miles from Shannon Airport, which means you can be enjoying the comforts of Castle living within 15 minutes of claiming your baggage.

With flights from Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Rhode Island and Toronto, seven routes from the UK including London and Edinburgh, and 13 other European connections, this international airport in County Clare is the perfect gateway to the south west of Ireland.

Cliffs of Moher
Rising for 5 miles out of the crashing Atlantic swell, The Cliffs of Moher command one of the most dramatic views in Ireland.

Rising majestically from Hag’s Head to the south and reaching their highest point (214 metres) just north of O’Brien’s Tower – which was constructed in 1835 by Cornelius O ‘Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru – they’re the most startling cliffs in Europe.

On a clear day, the stunning views reach as far as the Aran Islands and Connemara. Visit Atlantic Edge, the interactive interpretative centre, or take a boat trip under the cliffs from Doolin and Liscannor piers.

Wild Atlantic Way
An epic road trip, with the kind of scenery you can only dream of, The Wild Atlantic Way weaves along a 2,500km stretch of coast, showcasing Ireland at its very best. Passing through seven counties, you’ll find unimagined vistas, historic treasures, cultural kicks and sensational cuisine along the route.

Stretching from the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal to Kinsale in County Cork there are 156 discovery points along the way, from sandy beaches to pretty villages and historic cities to exhilarating hikes. There are also 15 designated ‘Signature Experience’ points along the way, so you can dip in and out of the experience.

Loop Head
Loop Head is a slender finger of land pointing out to sea from the most westerly point of County Clare on Ireland’s Atlantic coast. With the ocean on one side and the Shannon Estuary on the other, this tiny peninsula would be an island but for a meager mile of land connecting it to the rest of Clare.

Despite its isolation, its people are far from insular, having spent hundreds of years welcoming strangers by water. In 2010, Loop Head became a European Destination of Excellence in aquatic tourism.

It’s also right in the middle of the Wild Atlantic Way which constitutes 2,500 kilometers of the finest coastal scenery in Ireland.

Loop Head epitomises what the Wild Atlantic Way is about: panoramic cliff views, abundant local seafood, your choice of aquatic activities, and plenty of quiet beauty spots where you can pause and wonder at this unforgettable part of the world.

The Aran Islands
In Galway Bay you’ll spot three rocky limestone outcrops that make up the Aran Islands. Inis Mór, Inis Meáin and Inis Oírr, each of these dramatic islands has one foot in the past, guarding the history and heart of Ireland’s traditional language, culture and music, with islanders still speaking the traditional Gaelic language.

The sense of history is palpable as you step back in time for a day trip. Despite the whitewashed cottages, meandering stone walls, towering cliffs, patchwork fields, perfect beaches and grassy lanes, each of the islands has its own distinct character.

Time seems to pass slower here, and the sense of tranquillity and serenity is exhilarating. Music sessions, traditional crafts and a warm Irish welcome are all part of the charm. A day trip here will stay with you forever.

Burren Food Trail
Alpine, Arctic and Mediterranean plants grow side-by-side in The Burren, a lunar-like limestone world that formed 320 million years ago. The magical, mystical area bears the marks of ancient settlers, in the form of dolmens and burial chambers, which still stand today.

Come to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which covers 560 sq kilometres, and follow the wonderful Burren Food Trail. Featuring 22 local establishments and producers, the area’s unique landscape produces some of Ireland’s finest beef, lamb and salmon.

Our top tip? Schedule a visit to The Burren Smokehouse to learn how smoked salmon, one of our most celebrated national ingredients, is prepared. (Naturally, you’ll find it on the menu at Dromoland Castle!)

Ennis
Close to Dromoland Castle, the small town Ennis, sprang up in medieval times, its streets a narrow, irregular tangle on the banks of the River Fergus. Ennis Friary, founded in the 13th century by the same powerful O’Brien family that created Dromoland Castle, is still intact and worth a visit.

Renowned across Europe as a centre of learning you’ll find interesting artefacts here, including 15th- and 16th-century sculptures. Though light on sights the town is very pedestrian-friendly and enjoyable to wander around and browse in.

Limerick City
A medieval city straddling Ireland’s longest river, the Shannon, Limerick’s friendly streets blend medieval and Georgian architecture creating an attractive space that’s compact to get around.

Take a walking tour to discover the city’s many treasures, from King John’s Castle to St Mary’s Cathedral, the Bishop’s Palace to Thomond Park, the iconic stadium and home of Munster rugby. En route you’ll find a thriving food scene to keep you fuelled.

Food lovers won’t want to miss out on The Milk Market (on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays), a fabulous market frequented by some of Ireland’s finest artisan producers.

The jewel in Limerick’s crown is The Hunt Museum, an exceptional museum with an outstanding private collection of artefacts including masterpieces by da Vinci, Yeats and Renoir.

Galway City
For many, Galway is the beating heart of Ireland’s heritage – a colourful, historic city with a bohemian bent that values art, music and culture more than most.

Here traditional pubs pulse with live music, twisting streets heave with street entertainers and bustling restaurants fill with locals and visitors enjoying the outstanding local seafood, freshly caught close by.

While you’ll still find traces of the town’s medieval walls, and Ireland’s oldest fishing village, the Claddagh, you’ll also find a city pulsing with an energy and dynamism thanks to its youthful population.

Come for local oysters and a pint of Guinness, a sing-along in a cosy pub, a seafront stroll out around Galway Bay, a Michelin-starred dining experience or a walking tour of the charming city that has been chosen as European Capital of Culture 2020.

Killaloe & The River Shannon
Straddling the majestic River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, the pretty towns of Killaloe and Ballina are linked by a handsome 13-arch bridge that connects the counties of Clare and Tipperary.

Picture-perfect and friendly, Killaloe, on the western bank of Lough Derg, was the birthplace of Brian Boru, the fierce High King whose ancestors built Dromoland Castle.

It’s a charming town to explore, mirrored by Ballina on the eastern bank, with its excellent pubs and restaurants. The old canal bank, disused railway line and narrow streets make these twin towns a lovely place to explore by foot and the starting point for a scenic drive along Lough Derg.

River Shannon & Lough Derg Experience
Gain exclusive access to a range of unique locations & extraordinary private properties, combined with a burst of genuine Irish hospitality as you meet the locals and travel Ireland through the ages from Medieval, Traditional, Georgian, to Palladian and Modern Ireland.

Each location is fused with elements of Irish art, architecture, castles, culture and much more, with a carefully chosen selection of locally sourced artisan food and drink tasting experiences, showcasing the very best of small artisan producers in the area.

It is possible to further enhance your experience as you travel to each location by road, air or water, and for that ‘wow’ experience a combination of all. With exclusive access, this is a true private behind the scenes taste of Ireland like never before.

Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval fortress in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954, and showcases wonderful 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art. Medieval banquets in the castle and traditional Irish evenings, with music and dance are especially popular.

The neighbouring Bunratty Folk Park offers a window on 19th century Ireland with its reconstructed traditional Irish village including thatched cottages, a forge, weavers, post office and vivid historic enactments.

Website: www.dromoland.ie

Rooms: 97

Price: from 480 EUR per night