Have you always dreamed of living in a castle? In Ireland, that dream can easily come true! There are dozens of castles all over the island, and you could conceivably stay in one every night of your trip. While you won’t find a cheap castle stay,all of the castles on the list are no more expensive than a night at a nice hotel.
They are categorized by county to make it easy to find the perfect one for you!
Plus, with this list, you won’t have to blow your entire budget on accommodations.
How to find the best deals on Castle Hotels
Staying in a castle in Ireland doesn’t have to mean luxury-only prices. With the right timing and booking strategy, it’s possible to experience a castle hotel for far less than you might expect.
Travel in the Shoulder Season
The biggest factor in price is when you go. Castle hotel rates are highest from late spring through summer, especially June–August. For the best deals, aim for:
-
March–May
-
September–early November
During these months, prices drop significantly, crowds are lighter, and you still get beautiful scenery.
Book Midweek Instead of Weekends
Weekend nights are almost always more expensive. If your schedule is flexible, booking Sunday through Thursdaycan save a surprising amount per night—sometimes €50–€100 less than weekend rates.
Be Flexible With Location
Castle hotels outside major tourist hubs tend to be more affordable. Properties in counties like Cavan, Kerry, Donegal, or Kildare often offer better value than castles close to Dublin or major tour routes.
Watch for Off-Season Specials
Many castle hotels offer:
-
Off-season promotions
-
Last-minute discounts
-
Winter or early spring packages
Checking rates directly on the hotel’s website as well as booking platforms can help you spot these deals.
Consider Smaller or “Castle-Style” Hotels
Not every castle stay needs to be a massive estate. Smaller castles or historic manor houses often deliver the same atmosphere at a lower cost, especially for families or shorter stays.
Compare Prices for Different Room Types
Entry-level rooms can be dramatically cheaper than upgraded suites. If your goal is the castle experience rather than luxury extras, choosing the most basic room often unlocks the best value.
Quick Tip for Budget Travelers
If you’re traveling with kids or planning a road trip, castle hotels can actually be cost-effective when you compare them to booking multiple hotel rooms—especially during shoulder season.
Quick Guide to Affordable Castle Hotels in Ireland
| Castle Hotel | Approx Price Per Night* | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ballyseede Castle | €180–€250 | Tralee, County Kerry | Best overall value castle stay |
| Waterford Castle | €200–€300 | Waterford | Romantic getaways & golf |
| Cabra Castle | €170–€250 | County Cavan | Easy access from Dublin |
| Kilkea Castle | €190–€300 | County Kildare | Historic charm near Dublin |
| Clontarf Castle | €170–€260 | Dublin | Budget-friendly castle feel in the city |
| Lough Eske Castle | €220–€350 | Donegal | Off-season luxury deals |
*Prices vary by season and availability.
Best Value Castle Hotel in Dublin
Clontarf Castle
I love this place! My husband and I stayed here on our 2nd honeymoon to Ireland. I expected it to be cheesy and basic in the rooms, but I was so wrong!
This hotel was a castle in the 11th century and was converted to a hotel in the mid-1900’s.
The hotel maintains its castle charm and has modern facilities all at the same time. The room decor feels appropriate for a castle, and the beds are super comfy!
The main attraction for me is the breakfast! Even if this castle hotel was only ok, the sumptuous breakfast buffet would be worth it. It is sooo yummy.
If you need a castle hotel right near Dublin, you will not be disappointed in Clontarf castle.
For booking information, click here.
You won’t want to miss a minute of Ireland
Subscribe to follow us and get what to wear in Ireland for FREE!
Click Here
Affordable Castle Hotels in County Wexford
Wilton Castle
This castle has such beautiful surroundings and is a hop, skip and jump away from Enniscorthy. This castle has 4 apartments for rent; each has been updated to be modern yet retain the charm of its heritage.
You will love the suite that fits six and would be perfect for a family or a group.
Prices are comparable to local VRBO and you will have the same (if not more) amount of space, and you will be staying in a CASTLE!
For booking information, click here
Castle Hotel in County Kerry
Ballyseede Castle
Ballyseede Castle was built in the 16th century and has been lovingly restored and turned into a beautiful castle hotel.
The castle is set on 30 acres of parkland, so you can get out and walk to your heart’s content.
Each room is decorated in its own unique style and comes complete with a television.
The afternoon tea is said to be exquisite and a great way to begin your stay at Ballyseede Castle.
For booking information click here.
Reasonably Priced Castle Hotel in County Waterford
The Waterford Castle Hotel is just outside of Waterford and is on its own island. You actually have to take a short ferry to get to the castle hotel. (You can drive on.)
The castle was built in the 16th century and is surrounded by 310 acres of park land. You can take a walk and see all kinds of animals.
If you bring the kids, they will love their stay as well. There is a nearby playground for kids and a driving range.
For more information, click here.
Inexpensive Castle hotels in County Galway
Abbeyglen Castle
Abbeyglen Castle was built in 1832, making it one of the newer castles on our list. It is just outside Clifton and set on spacious grounds for strolling and lots of patios for relaxing.
They recently added a spa to one part of their castle, which has gotten really high ratings. So you can pamper yourself with a massage or get your nails a new design while you are visiting.
The food at the hotel is so highly rated it is a destination in and of itself!
For more information, click here.
Ballynahinch Castle
Ballynahich Castle is a nature lover’s castle! It is set in the middle of the 12 Bens mountain range.
The castle hotel has been furnished to make the most of the nature all around it! Most rooms look out on the water or mountains. The rooms are modernly furnished, and each have televisions in them.
If you love to do some easy hiking, there are great trails and paths. Or you might choose to do some fishing with gear provided by the Castle Hotel. There are also some beautiful spots to spend reading or gazing over the property.
For more information, click here.
Beautiful Castle Hotel in County Kildare
Kilkea Castle
Kilkea Castle was built in 1180 and is set on over 180 acres. This is one of the most majestic castle hotels you will find in Ireland!
From the beautifully manicured gardens to the common rooms you will get a great taste of what it must have been like to live in the castle years ago.
The bedrooms are much more modern than the rest of the castle, which makes it very relaxing and open.
If you want to make the most of your stay, you can find the following:
- Golfing
- Horseriding
- Archery
- Fishing
- A spa
- Relaxation room.
This hotel is when you really want to stay at for 2 nights so you can make the most of the extras!
For more information click here.
Castle Hotel in County Roscommon
Kilronan Castle
Kilronan Castle Hotel and Spa is situated in Roscommon, Ireland.
It is snugly tucked into 40 acres of park land and has some spectacular vistas from most rooms.
There is a beautiful pool, walking paths, and a well rated spa in the castle, so you won’t need to go far to relax.
The rooms are more formal than most other castle hotels, but the mattresses and furniture are new and modern.
Prices are slightly higher at Kilronan Castle than most of the others on the list, but significantly less than castle hotels with similar ratings.
Kilronan Castle is just 45 minutes away from Sligo Airport so it might be a great place to start your trip!
For more information click here.
FAQs
What is considered a cheap castle hotel in Ireland?
A cheap castle hotel in Ireland typically refers to properties with nightly rates under €250, especially during the shoulder season. While true budget castle stays are rare, many offer affordable entry-level rooms outside peak summer months.
Are there castle hotels in Ireland under €200 per night?
Yes, some castle hotels in Ireland offer rooms under €200 per night during the shoulder season or midweek. Prices are most often a little higher during the weekend.
What is the cheapest time of year to stay in a castle in Ireland?
The cheapest time to stay in a castle hotel in Ireland is typically March to May and September to early November. These shoulder seasons offer lower prices and fewer crowds while still providing a great travel experience.
Is it cheaper to book castle hotels midweek?
Yes, midweek stays are often significantly cheaper than weekends. Booking Sunday through Thursday can save €50 to €100 per night compared to Friday and Saturday rates.
Are castle hotels in Ireland good for families?
Many castle hotels in Ireland are family-friendly and can be cost-effective when traveling with children, especially if a family room replaces the need for multiple hotel rooms.
Should I book castle hotels directly or through a booking site?
It’s best to compare both. Booking sites make price comparisons easy, while booking directly with the hotel may unlock special offers, seasonal deals, or flexible cancellation policies.
I hope this will help you find a great castle to call your own in Ireland!
Please remember that you must book 2-4 months in advance for most of these hotels as they are very popular. (Especially in the summer months.)
Now you have a place to stay, you need to know what to do!
Here is all of our other Ireland content:
There may be affiliate links in this post. Read my disclosure policy to learn more.
Leave a Comment