Surrounded by tranquil countryside just an hour from Dublin, Kilkea Castle is one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited castles. This magnificent hotel seamlessly blends medieval history with modern luxury. It is a family-owned estate, offering diverse accommodation options from castle suites to self-catering lodges, complemented by a spa, championship golf course, and numerous activities. Kilkea Castle provides an enchanting retreat where centuries of history harmonize with contemporary comfort.
Their story
Dating back to 1180, Kilkea Castle stands as one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles.
One of the most intriguing legends is that of the Wizard Earl, Gerald FitzGerald, the 11th Earl of Kildare. He was a deeply learned man rumoured to have dabbled in alchemy and the occult during the 16th century. After being forced into exile, it’s said he never truly died but returns every seven years, riding a silver-shod white horse across the castle grounds.
Once the medieval stronghold of the FitzGerald’s, Earls of Kildare, this historic treasure has been transformed into a 140-bedroom luxurious resort set across 180 acres of landscaped gardens, ancient woodland, and the meandering River Griese.
The estate is owned by the Cashman family since 2014. They set out to blend the rich heritage of the castle with modern sustainability practices. While preserving its 12th-century character, Kilkea offers guests a unique sanctuary where history meets contemporary luxury. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Kilkea Castle integrates sustainability into its 12th-century heritage through thoughtful eco-initiatives.
- While the historic castle structure limits modifications, its newest addition, the Kilkea guest lodges feature solar panels, efficient insulation, and heating.
- Kilkea also has an advanced building management system to monitor energy consumption.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- Its advanced building management system makes it possible to monitor if there are any spikes or unusual usage, so the staff can act immediately.
- Kilkea features extensive solar installations generating 768,906 kWh annually, cutting energy costs by 70% and reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 200 tons yearly.
- Self-catering lodges are built to high energy-efficiency standards with state-of-the-art insulation.
- The estate set up EV charging stations and offer a hybrid vehicle as a courtesy for the guests.
Pioneer in waste management
- With comprehensive sorting across all facilities and a commitment to eliminating single-use plastics.
- Food waste from the castle’s restaurants is minimized through careful inventory management.
- The new leach field system is to improve waste management and reduce environmental harm.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The estate’s restaurant offers authentic farm-to-table dining by sourcing vegetables from its own garden or locally, with a focus on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
Actively protects nature and community
- Kilkea hosts annual charity golf event to support the Children’s Health Foundation.
- It also offers authentic experiences related to Irish heritage and farming to support local traditions and small businesses.
Most Popular Activities Near Kilkea Castle
- Golf on an 18-hole championship parkland course with the River Griese as a natural hazard.
- Falconry experiences with birds of prey including owls, falcons, and hawk.
- Fly fishing at the trout-stocked pond.
- Escape Room adventures in four themed rooms including Dueling Dungeons.
- Equestrian excursions through the “Thoroughbred County” with custom riding experiences.
- Archery and air-rifle shooting sessions in the heart of the estate.
- Irish Wolfhound experiences with these majestic, historic dogs.
- Walking trails across the 180-acre estate and nearby Mullaghreelan Wood.
HOW TO GET THERE – read our guide on Ireland airports
Best Time To Visit Kilkea Castle
- The best time to visit Kilkea Castle is during the late spring to early autumn months (May-September), when Ireland’s mild weather allows full enjoyment of the 180-acre estate’s outdoor activities.
- Summer offers perfect conditions for golf on the championship course, archery, falconry, and exploring the ancient woodlands.
- Autumn brings stunning foliage across the grounds, while spring showcases blooming gardens.
- Year-round visitors can enjoy the thermal spa, exceptional dining options, and cozy castle interiors.