If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling to Ireland and staying in a castle, Kilronan Castle in County Roscommon will make your dream come true. Tucked away in the scenic west of Ireland, a little over 2 hours from Dublin, visitors to Kilronan Castle are treated to refinement, elegance, and a memorable stay. A visit here is not only world-class but delightfully comfortable without being pretentious. I experienced my first castle stay at Kilronan Castle, and here is what I learned.
The Kilronan Castle Story
Having family from this part of Ireland, I was familiar with Kilronan Castle. However, my memory of the castle is from before its transformation.
Once the historic home of the Tennison family, the majestic house on the banks of Lough Meelagh has a history that dates back to 1803. This is when Thomas Tennison, then an MP for Boyle, married Lady Frances Anne King, the daughter of the 1st Earl of Kingston. After their marriage, the Tennison family name changed to King-Tennison, and they tore down the existing home to build a new grand estate.
Over the years, additions and modifications were made, but eventually, changes in politics and fewer visits from the family led to the castle being sold. Ultimately, it fell into disrepair, which is how I remember the castle back in the day.
A Rich History Re-Imagined
In 2006, the Hanly Castle Hotel Group started restoring Kilronan Castle. Traces of the old castle are still visible. From those, a team of experts expanded and shaped the magnificent building that stands today.
The restoration has not only revived the castle but has also created a perfect mix of rich history and modern luxury, inviting visitors to enjoy a unique and magical hotel experience.
Stylish and Comfortable Accommodations
Kilronan boasts a total of 85 rooms, with a selection that spans from a castle tower suite to authentic castle suites, family rooms, and classic rooms. They even offer a self-catering option.
Each room is meticulously styled to create a luxurious and comfortable stay. The rooms combine period style with modern touches, offering refined décor, plush amenities, and the conveniences travelers appreciate. From the inviting bedding and well-appointed baths to the stunning views, every detail contributes to a sense of comfort and understated luxury that perfectly complements the castle’s timeless character.
For my overnight, I enjoyed a sublime stay in the Lough Meelagh Suite. The regal four-poster bed, luxurious bathroom, and spectacular views of Lough Meelagh made me feel like royalty. It’s a memory I shall treasure for years to come.
Dining Excellence
The dining options at Kilronan Castle are wonderful. For fine dining, there is the Douglas Hyde Restaurant. Guests can also enjoy a snack in the Drawing Room, or for more casual dining or afternoon tea, there is the Palm Court. Award-winning Chef, Daniel Willimont, is a culinary treasure and serves visitors dining at the castle magnificent farm-to-table meals that are second-to-none.
I enjoyed a Chicken Caesar salad that will forever stand out as the best Caesar salad I’ve ever had. As I shared with Monica Feeny, Kilronan Castle Business Development Manager, after savoring that salad, I feel I’m owed an apology from every other Caesar salad I’ve ever eaten.
Likewise, the strawberry rhubarb pie was sheer bliss. Light and flaky, sweet but not overpowering, it was the perfect finish to my evening meal.
Moreover, breakfast in the Douglas Hyde restaurant is a mélange of Irish favorites: eggs, rashers, sausage, boxty, and the like. Breakfast in Ireland is excellent. Breakfast in a castle in Ireland is exquisite.
Wine Cellar, Beverages & Cozy Corners
After enjoying my dinner, I headed down to the Dungeon. The Dungeon is a charming bar and seating area where I had a pint of Guinness with a view before calling it a night.
This cozy area is decorated with multiple comfy leather sofas and seating spots, and is perfect for an evening drink or after-dinner beverage. If the weather permits, you can step into the courtyard and enjoy a drink outside as the sun dips below the horizon.
For wine aficionados, the wine cellar is fully stocked with an array of vintages from around the world that are ready to uncork and enjoy.
Or, if you fancy a little reading, take your beverage of choice with you into the library. This spacious room is filled with historic books and literature waiting to be discovered. It’s just one of the many unique spaces in the castle beckoning guests to relax and immerse themselves in the ambiance.
“The name Kilronan comes from the Gaelic Cill Ronain, which means ‘Ronan’s Abbey.’ According to tradition, Saint Ronan and his daughter, Saint Lasair, built a church beside Lough Meelagh in the 6th century. However, it was the arrival of the Tenison family that truly put this area on the map.”
Kilronan Castle
Spa & Wellness
Not only a hotel, Kilronan Castle is also an esteemed spa. Visitors are invited to luxuriate and take advantage of the spa & wellness opportunities. Housed within the castle, the spa offers a serene retreat where salon professionals, massage therapists, and wellness experts provide treatments that melt away tension. It’s the kind of restorative experience that feels like a natural extension of the castle’s atmosphere of relaxation and escape.
Kilronan Castle also features a leisure center with weights, treadmills, and a 15-meter heated indoor pool, giving guests plenty of options to work out at their own pace. For those who prefer the outdoors, scenic trails wind through the grounds—perfect for a refreshing walk and a chance to take in the views of Lough Meelagh.
Nearby Attractions
While Kilronan Castle is nestled in a rural setting, it is conveniently situated in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and perfect for making a hub or visiting nearby attractions. It is ideally located for a mix of history, nature, and local adventures. On this trip, I explored the Arigna Mining Experience and visited the nearby village of Keadue to pay a quiet visit to harpist Turlough O’Carolan’s grave.
Nearby, you can wander the trails of Lough Key Forest Park, travel to Yeats Country and admire Glencar Waterfall, or step back in time at the Georgian King House in Boyle. For active fun, there’s golf, horseback riding, or fishing—plenty of options for every kind of traveler.
Friendly Staff & Overall Hospitality
I can’t say enough about how delightful and friendly the staff at Kilronan Castle are. From the moment of my arrival until my departure, each person I encountered was friendly and offered a smile with service. From the charming waitress in the restaurant to the helpful staff at the front desk to the kind gentleman pulling the pint in the Dungeon – each one made me feel welcomed and appreciated. That means the world when it comes to a hotel stay.
Tips for Planning Your Visit to Kilronan Castle
If you’re looking for a true castle stay in Ireland, Kilronan Castle is hard to beat. While it’s pricier than typical accommodations, I’m so glad I made it my splurge—it’s worth every bit of the extra cost.
The castle offers various packages and seasonal rates, so planning ahead is key. Booking online makes it easy to see what’s available and add extras like spa treatments at the same time. It’s also a good idea to make dinner or tea reservations ahead of time. You’ll want to be sure you’ll get to enjoy one of Chef Willimont’s spectacular culinary creations.
Kilronan is a bit off the main highways. Renting a car or arranging transport in advance will make it easier to explore the surrounding attractions like Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle, or the Arigna Mining Experience.
If you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or other event, let the castle staff know; they often add thoughtful touches that make a stay extra memorable.
Check-in is at 3 PM, check-out is at noon, and a limited number of wheelchair-accessible rooms are available, so book early if accessibility is important.
Take Away
I’d always dreamed of staying in a castle in Ireland, but I just didn’t know when or if I’d ever do it. However, when I learned that Kilronan Castle had been restored and turned into a luxurious hotel and spa, I knew I had to make it happen.
I am thrilled that I got to enjoy to this one-of-a-kind stay. From the fairytale-like suite with a view of Lough Meelagh to the mouthwatering food, tasty beverages, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff, everything was first-class elegance. It was a dream come true, especially when I recall the castle’s former state; to be able to enjoy it in all its glory now is superb.
I’d also like to give a special thank you to Monica Feeney for taking the time to share this magnificent hotel with me. The tour was wonderful, and Monica was so gracious in welcoming me to learn all about Kilronan Castle.
Kilronan Castle is now at the top of my list of all-time greats—it isn’t just a stay; it’s an experience I’ll always remember and hold dear.
Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa,
To make planning easier, I’ve included a link below where you can view rates and book your stay at Kilronan Castle.
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