Kilkea Castle
A 12th-century castle hotel in Ireland offering luxury stays, spa, golf, and stunning historic grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Kilkea Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 12th-century castle hotel in Ireland offering luxury stays, spa, golf, and stunning historic grounds.
"Outstanding Castle and were not disappointed!!! The location is breathtaking, both in beauty and history!"
🚗 Book Spa Treatments Early
Spa days are popular! Book your treatments in advance via email to secure your spot.
🛏️ Carriage Rooms Offer Space
Carriage rooms are spacious and well-appointed, offering comfort for your stay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Castle Interior
Main Castle Building
Step back in time within the 12th-century walls, experiencing a blend of medieval charm and modern luxury.
Expansive Castle Grounds
Estate Grounds
Wander through manicured gardens, explore the falconry, and discover the serene stream on this breathtaking 180-acre estate.
The Luxurious Spa
Spa Building
Indulge in rejuvenating treatments, including thermal pool access with strong jets, perfect for relaxation.
The Golf Course
Golf Club
Tee off on a high-standard, pristine golf course set within the stunning castle resort.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Castle Stay in Advance
Explore Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Spa Treatments Early
Spa days are popular! Book your treatments in advance via email to secure your spot.
🛏️ Carriage Rooms Offer Space
Carriage rooms are spacious and well-appointed, offering comfort for your stay.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations Recommended
For dining at Hermione's or 1180, especially on weekends, booking a table is advised.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the falconry and the beautiful stream; the grounds are a highlight!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Spa Treatments Early
Spa days are popular! Book your treatments in advance via email to secure your spot.
🛏️ Carriage Rooms Offer Space
Carriage rooms are spacious and well-appointed, offering comfort for your stay.
🍽️ Dinner Reservations Recommended
For dining at Hermione's or 1180, especially on weekends, booking a table is advised.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the falconry and the beautiful stream; the grounds are a highlight!
📸 Capture the Magic
The castle and its grounds are incredibly photogenic, perfect for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kilkea Castle is widely praised for its stunning historical property, beautiful grounds, and excellent service, offering a luxurious and memorable stay. While most guests have a fantastic experience, some minor points like small TVs in rooms or occasional slow service at breakfast are noted.
"Gorgeous property with lush gardens and big trees. Booked a carriage room with plenty of space. The TV was a bit small and far from the bed and the sink fixtures needed some work but otherwise we were comfortable and the room was well-appointed. Both breakfast at 1180 and dinner at Hermoine were wonderful. The staff was fantastic. Shoutout to Glenn and Niall for excellent service, you really made our visit."
Natalie Smyth
"Great experience at Kilkea Castle. We were staying for a one-night family getaway, with all adults in one of the lovely 3-bedroom lodges. They would be ideal for family visits with kids also. The grounds are spectacular, however, the castle could be better lit up at night.
We had a lovely dinner that evening and the restaurant staff were quite attentive.
Breakfast in the morning was very nice. We availed of the hot buffet and à la carte options. However, we were waiting quite a while for service.
I would happily return for another stay."
Mick Dineen
"Kilkea is a high-class, beautiful castle. Full of history, flowing streams and a wide variety of activities. We came for my daughter’s birthday. Loved the thermal pool in the spa - it had incredibly strong jets, designed by specialist physiotherapists. Excellent massages, facials and all round, comfortable atmosphere. The falconry was an unexpected treat and the stream at the back of the property was the clearest we’ve ever seen. Absolutely magnificent."
judith marriott
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilkea Castle is located in County Kildare, approximately one hour's drive from Dublin. You can rent a car for the most flexibility or arrange for a taxi service. Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the castle.
The address for Kilkea Castle is Kilkea, Castledermot, Co. Kildare, W12 V0C8, Ireland. It's easily searchable on GPS and mapping applications.
Public transport to Kilkea Castle can be challenging. While there are bus routes to nearby towns like Athy, a car or taxi is usually required for the final leg of the journey.
If you can't stay at the castle itself, Athy is a charming town nearby that offers accommodation options and is a good base for exploring the area.
Kilkea Castle is situated in a picturesque rural setting in County Kildare, surrounded by beautiful countryside and its own extensive grounds. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you don't need tickets to visit the grounds if you're not staying overnight, booking accommodation, spa treatments, or dining reservations in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Kilkea Castle operates as a hotel and resort, so it's generally accessible for guests at all times. Specific facilities like the spa or restaurants will have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly on their website or by contacting them.
Yes, you can visit the grounds and potentially dine at the restaurants without staying overnight, though booking dining reservations is advised. Access to certain areas might be restricted to guests.
Kilkea Castle often offers various packages, including spa breaks and overnight stays. It's worth checking their official website (kilkeacastle.ie) for current deals and promotions.
Standard check-out times at hotels like Kilkea Castle are typically around 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM. It's advisable to confirm the exact check-out time with the hotel upon booking or arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities include exploring the castle grounds, falconry, playing golf on the resort's course, and indulging in treatments at the spa. The castle also hosts weddings and events.
Yes, Kilkea Castle is very family-friendly. The lodges are ideal for family stays, and the expansive grounds offer plenty of space for children to explore. +1
Yes, Kilkea Castle features a luxurious spa offering a range of treatments, including massages and facials, as well as a thermal pool with strong jets.
Absolutely! Kilkea Castle boasts a high-standard golf course that is well-maintained and offers a beautiful golfing experience.
The castle itself is steeped in history dating back to 1180. While formal tours might not always be scheduled, the architecture and ambiance provide a rich historical experience. You can learn about its past as the stronghold of the FitzGeralds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kilkea Castle offers dining at its restaurant 'Hermione's' and '1180' for breakfast. Both offer excellent food and service, with Hermione's being particularly praised for its first-class experience. +1
Breakfast is typically available at the '1180' restaurant, and it's often included in accommodation packages. Guests can choose from hot buffet and à la carte options. +1
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, many high-end castle hotels offer afternoon tea. It's best to inquire directly with Kilkea Castle about their afternoon tea service and booking availability.
Reviews consistently praise the food quality at Kilkea Castle's dining establishments, with Hermione's Restaurant receiving particular acclaim for its first-class cuisine and service. +1
Yes, Kilkea Castle has a bar where guests can enjoy drinks in a sophisticated setting.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire estate is incredibly photogenic! Capture stunning shots of the castle exterior, the manicured gardens, the serene stream, and the historic interiors. The grounds offer a magical backdrop for any photo. 
Absolutely! Kilkea Castle is a dream venue for weddings and its picturesque setting makes it ideal for capturing beautiful wedding photos.
Guests are generally welcome to take photos within their rooms and common areas. For professional or extensive photoshoots, it's best to check with the castle management regarding any specific policies.
While general photography for personal use is usually permitted, it's always wise to be mindful of other guests' privacy and any specific rules the castle may have, especially in private areas or during events.
Kilkea Castle is renowned for its romantic, historic, and fairytale-like photography, making it popular for weddings, engagement shoots, and general travel photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the spa offers a tranquil escape for adults, the castle's overall atmosphere and the surrounding nature provide engaging experiences for younger visitors. Consider packing comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds, and inquire about any family-specific activities or packages that might be available during your visit. The blend of history and open space makes it an adventure for all ages.
💍 Couples & Honeymooners
+1 Imagine enjoying a candlelit dinner at Hermione's Restaurant or a relaxing couples' massage at the spa.The boutique hotel ambiance and the stunning grounds create an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. Consider booking a suite in the main castle for the ultimate romantic immersion. The castle's picturesque setting also makes it a highly sought-after venue for destination weddings, adding to its romantic allure.
+1🏌️ Golf Enthusiasts
Whether you're looking to book a round during your stay or are planning a golf-focused trip, Kilkea Castle provides an excellent facility. It's advisable to check the golf booking availability and any package deals that might include rounds of golf when planning your visit. The resort's commitment to maintaining its grounds ensures a top-tier experience for players of all levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Kilkea Castle's History
Originally built by the Norman de Riddlesford family, it later became the stronghold of the powerful FitzGerald dynasty, the Earls of Kildare. For centuries, it stood as a symbol of their influence and power in Ireland. The castle has witnessed countless historical events and has been a silent observer of Ireland's evolving landscape.Over the years, Kilkea Castle has undergone various transformations, adapting to changing times while striving to preserve its medieval heritage. Today, it operates as a luxury hotel and resort, offering guests a unique opportunity to stay within its historic walls. The blend of its ancient architecture with modern amenities creates an enchanting experience that appeals to history buffs and luxury travelers alike. The castle's enduring presence makes it a significant landmark in County Kildare.
Experiencing the Kilkea Castle Spa
Travelers often highlight the comfortable atmosphere and the high quality of service received at the spa. Whether you're seeking a pampering session or a therapeutic escape, the spa at Kilkea Castle provides a luxurious experience. It's a perfect addition to a castle stay, offering a modern contrast to the historic surroundings and a chance to unwind completely. Booking treatments in advance is highly recommended due to its popularity.
Accommodation Options at Kilkea Castle
For those seeking a spacious and well-appointed room, the Carriage Rooms are a popular choice, offering ample space and comfort.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit