17 Fairytale Castle Venues in Ireland

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17 Fairytale Castle Venues in Ireland-Featured-Image

Every little girl dreams of finding her prince and getting married in a grand castle, but what’s to say your dream wedding can’t be a reality?

If there’s one thing we’re good at here in Ireland, its building breathtaking castles…and with demand at an all time high for castle weddings, its much easier for couples to book one today.

To save you searching, we’ve complied our shortlist of 17 Irish castle wedding venues that we’ve fallen completely in love with, each epitomising romance, grandeur and fairytale charm. One of these might just be the perfect fit for you…

Bellingham Castle

OMG! Bellingham Castle is an exclusive and romantic hotspot, where you and your guests can enjoy a truly magical day in complete privacy. The relaxing surroundings, the friendly staff, the sumptuous Bute Suite, the 19 luxury bedrooms (ideal for travelling guests) and of course the fine food and wine will ensure that you have an unforgettable experience.

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Back in 1903, Bellingham Castle was the romantic venue of choice for the wedding of Augusta Mary Monica Bellingham. This was one of Ireland’s biggest society events, which attracted media attention from California to New York. Today, it still stands the test of time, being one of the most picturesque and exclusive castle venues in Ireland.

Lough Rynn Castle

Recently awarded the ‘Best Castle Venue’ in Ireland…just saying, Lough Rynn offers couples a unique and luxurious fairytale setting. With its secluded location, breathtaking views and classic romanticism, you will be charmed for sure here at Lough Rynn. You and your guests (can hold up to 320) can enjoy a delicious drinks reception upon arrival, or be simply welcomed into the castle by an open log fire; you can’t beat that smell.

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Lough Rynn Castle Estate hosts an array of stunning features, such as the Baronial Hall, this space looks like something straight out of Downton Abbey. With dramatic bay windows overlooking the picturesque lough and the rolling lawns, sit back and relax by the Ireland’s largest Inglenook fireplace. If you’ve been dreaming of a roaring 20s celebration, we urge you to choose Lough Rynn.

ADVICE: Why You Should Consider A Castle Venue

Markree Castle

A uniquely charming Sligo wedding venue, the castle and its grounds are available exclusively to you and your guests for the duration of your wedding day. For those couples wishing to tie the knot at the venue, the castle offers an elegant chapel – the perfect location in which to say your vows. After the ceremony greet your guests in the magnificent Library and Grand Hall, meanwhile the splendid Grand Golden Ballroom can comfortably host up to 190 guests for a gourmet five course meal.

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Once the formalities of the wedding celebration are completed, guests are invited to retire to the castle Entertainment Suite with its vaulted ceilings, an enclosed outdoor courtyard, a Gin Bar, large dance floor, full pub bar, a country kitchen serving tea and coffee, plus a cosy sitting room with real fire and lounge area. What more can you ask for…every need is catered for at Markree Castle.

Darver Castle

Dating back to the 15th Century, Darver Castle is situated on 50 acres of fine parkland in the rolling countryside of County Louth. It has been lovingly restored by the Carville family, who offer a one wedding per day policy, so couples can fully immerse themselves in the castle’s unique splendour.

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Wedding ceremonies can be performed in the newly refurbished ceremony room within the courtyard which can seat 150 guests. Then celebrate over a gourmet meal in the spectacular Brabazon Hall, with its stone cut walls and traditionally beamed ceiling, creating a warm and beautiful backdrop.

TRENDING: Ireland’s Most Relaxing Mini-Moon Hotspots

Belleek Castle

One of Ireland’s oldest castles, Belleek Castle can cater for both small or large weddings in either the Great Hall or the charming Library Restaurant. This enchanting castle is surrounded by 200 acres of woodland and dates back to the early 1400s. Their gardens are a beautiful backdrop for photos on the day, and there are many romantic photographic opportunities inside as well.

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The grandeur and the splendour of the iconic country house, their exquisite food, many open fires, as well as their excellent service and attentive hospitality combines to make your wedding day at Belleek a truly memorable occasion.

Belfast Castle

Perched on the side of Belfast’s iconic Cave Hill, this is both an elegant and sophisticated wedding venue. Belfast Castle has all the character and charm of a historic building with no compromise on luxury for a modern wedding. With its magical romantic setting and intimate atmosphere, this venue can provide an unforgettable day for you and your guests,

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It’s licensed to hold marriage and partnership ceremonies, which can be held in any of the three dedicated wedding rooms, all with spectacular views over Belfast Lough. The main banqueting space, the Chichester Room can seat up to 160 guests. Couples can choose from a selection of excellent menu options, spacious rooms and countless photo opportunities.

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort

Wait until you see this beauty…Waterford Castle is set on an enchanted 310-acre private island, how dreamy is that? One of Ireland’s most acclaimed hotels, it is located on the River Suir, and accessed by private car ferry over the King’s Channel.

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Recognised as the 7th of the 50 Best Hotels In The World and 3rd of The Top Ten Hotels In Europe by Condé Nast Traveller 2016 Readers’ Choice Awards, Waterford Castle offers the very best of Irish hospitality. It’s surrounded by the gracious living of an elegant past with every modern comfort, service and convenience. This fabulous island resort’s 16th Century Castle offers luxury, security and privacy like few other destinations.

Kilkea Castle

Live your princess dream with the help of renowned wedding team at Kilkea Castle. Dating back to 1180, Kilkea Castle captures the charm of a 12th Century castle with the sophistication and decadence of style. After a major renovation just a few years ago, the castle elegantly blends both the old and the new.

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There are no less than nine event spaces at Kilkea Castle, and that’s not even including options for outdoor ceremonies, which can take place on the lawn or in the rose garden, with the majestic castle as your backdrop! This expansive estate is simply made for exploring, and boasts lots of idyllic locations for your wedding portrait session, too.

Ashford Castle

A celebrity favourite, this is the ultimate wedding destination, just ask Rory McIlroy and Pierse Brosnan. With the option to exclusively hire the entire estate, you can tell why it’s so popular. The castle’s 83 bedrooms, suites and Lakeside Hideaway Cottage, your guests will be more than catered for. This allows you and your wedding party can enjoy the full castle experience without interruption.

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Don’t miss out on the estate’s unforgettable activities including falconry, equestrian, golf, river cruising, fishing and spa treatments; you will not be bored. If you are vibing with more of an intimate day, the elegant Connaught and Inglenook rooms are perfect for up to 40 guests.

Kinnitty Castle

This Gothic revival castle which dates back to the 13th Century, is situated close to the picture perfect village of Kinnitty, Co Offaly. They’ve won multiple awards for their fantastic service and wedding team; they will be on hand to guide you through every step of your wedding preparation.

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As an approved venue for both civil ceremonies & civil partnerships, you can relax knowing you have nowhere else to travel, and soak in the buzzing atmosphere of the day. There are packages available that include full weekends also. Kinnitty Castle has built special relationships with local suppliers and can advise you on the best in the business ensuring you have a stress free wedding day.

Castle Leslie

Nestled on 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes, Castle Leslie is a stunningly beautiful secluded estate in Monaghan only 80 minutes from Dublin and 60 minutes from Belfast. Still in the hands of its founding family, it is steeped in history and full of character and charm. A truly private rural escape, it is a magical setting for your special wedding celebration.

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For midsummer brides, consider Castle Leslie Estate, Co Monaghan. With 1,000 acres of endless Irish countryside, the estate dotted with ancient woodland and glittering lakes. A private, rural escape, it’s an ideal location for your perfect day.

REAL LIFE: Eamonn Holmes’ son Declan married his sweetheart in Castle Leslie’s stunning grounds…check it out!

Ballygally Castle

Located along the gorgeous Causeway Coastal Route, Ballygally Castle is an enchanting 17th Century wedding venue overlooking Ballygally Bay. With uninterrupted views across the Irish Sea literally on its doorstep, Ballygally is bursting with natural beauty. A stunning and unforgettably romantic backdrop for your wedding. Your venue is much more than just a setting; it’s a place where memories are made.

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Their award-winning experienced wedding specialists are here to offer advice and assistance at every stage, ensuring no detail is overlooked, and nothing is left to chance. With a wedding venue like this, your day will be as unique and special as you.

Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa

Kilronan Castle located on the shores of Lough Meelough, Ballyfarnon, Co Roscommon is one of Ireland’s unique hidden gems. This 200 year-old castle is steeped in history, full of character and old-world charm. Nestled amongst acres of woodland, open lawns and pathways leading you to a truly breathtaking estate.

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From intimate to extravagant, traditional to bespoke, their expert team offer a comprehensive service ensuring your wedding will be unforgettable and uniquely yours. Kilronan Castle has 84 superbly appointed bedrooms, they can cater for intimate numbers such as 150 or for numbers exceeding 350 too. plus who doesn’t love a cheeky trip to the spa for some much-needed rest and relaxation pre/post wedding.

Castle Durrow

From the elegant interiors to the beautiful gardens, the setting alone provides the perfect backdrop for your special day whatever the time of year. Add to that the famed Irish hospitality and exquisite food and you will have unforgettable experience on your wedding day.

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As well as having a beautiful banqueting room that can host up to 170 guests, French Doors open onto your own private terrace so you can celebrate into the night.

Solis Lough Eske

Lough Eske Castle is located just outside Donegal Town on a beautiful lakeside estate surrounded by the fabled Blue Stack Mountains. Lough Eske Castle was lavishly refurbished in 2007 and extended to create the modern comforts and graceful luxury of a timeless world class boutique hotel.

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With stunning views amidst 43 acres of unspoilt woodlands, providing you with a spectacular and unique backdrop making it the ideal venue for your fairy-tale wedding. This lovingly restored castle-hotel is the only 5* castle in the Northwest Region of the Wild Atlantic Way and consists of 96 beautifully appointed guest rooms, our awarding winning Spa Solís, Cedars Grill Restaurant and the relaxed Gallery Bar.

ADVICE: Why You Should Consider A Castle Venue

Slane Castle

A mere 25 minutes away from Dublin Airport, you won’t be disappointed by one of Ireland’s most iconic and well-known castle. There are a lot of compelling reasons to choose to celebrate your love at Slane Castle. The superb cuisine, unrivalled location, luxurious banqueting rooms, opulent interiors and the welcoming ambiance are among some of the reasons, but paramount is that you can leave all the stress and organising to their dedicated events team.

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They will plan and coordinate everything, from menu planning to flowers, room reservations to suppliers. Their award-winning team will ensure your day exceeds both you and your guest’s expectations. They can also accommodate in excess of 240 guests and there are 10 luxurious double bedrooms available for the bridal party. Slane Castle is also well-known as a popular festival and concert destination, so if you or your partner are music lovers, this is the castle venue for you.

Belle Isle Castle

Gather your friends and family for the experience of a lifetime, in your very own fairytale luxury castle venue set by the sparkling Fermanagh water’s edge. A 17th-century castle on an idyllic island in Northern Ireland’s Fermanagh lakelands, Belle Isle is an enchanted setting for civil wedding ceremonies and receptions.

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The castle itself is the embodiment of romantic, old-world charm, while the estate’s 470 acres of rolling hills, flowering meadows, tranquil gardens, and views of Lough Erne form a magical backdrop for photographs and memories.

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If you’re still in need of some more venue inspiration, why not meet the best in the business at our Spring Wedding Journal Shows – discounted tickets available HERE!

Citywest Convention Centre, Dublin – 11th & 12th Jan 2020

TEC Belfast – 1st & 2nd Feb 2020

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