Ashford Castle
13th-century medieval castle on Lough Corrib — Ireland's most-decorated luxury property
Property Overview
Ashford Castle is Ireland's most-decorated luxury property — a genuine 13th-century medieval castle on 350 acres of woodland and Lough Corrib waterfront, dating to 1228. Restored by Red Carnation Hotels 2013-2015 (€75m investment), it holds Ireland's highest hospitality accolades: Forbes 5-Star, AAA 5-Diamond, and Condé Nast readers' #1 hotel in Ireland (2019, 2021, 2023). 83 rooms, on-property falconry school, cinema, spa, and Ireland's oldest tree-lined avenue.
Why Ashford Castle is Iconic
Ashford Castle — 13th-Century Medieval Luxury Ireland
Curated footage by Ashford Castle for Ashford Castle
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State Suite (Castle Interior)
Max Occupancy: 3 Guests | Bedding: King four-poster + separate parlor
Reserve Ashford Castle
Compare live prices across verified travel partners. Rates start from $890 / night with instant confirmation and flexible cancellation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Ashford Castle from Shannon Airport?
105 minutes by car (135 km). Ashford offers Rolls-Royce transfer (€395 one-way) or you can rent a car — the drive through Connemara is spectacular. Helicopter transfer available (~€2,800 round-trip).
How old is Ashford Castle?
Built in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family, extended in 1868 by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness (of the Guinness brewery family), and fully restored 2013-2015 by Red Carnation Hotels — an €75m project.
What is Ireland's School of Falconry?
The oldest established falconry school in Ireland (founded 1999), located on Ashford Castle grounds. Hawk walk experiences allow guests to fly Harris hawks in the castle woodland. €175 per person for 90 minutes; ages 6+ can participate.
Best time of year to visit Ashford Castle?
May-September for daylight (18-hour days in June) and mild weather. Christmas week is magical (castle decorated, roaring fires) but books 12+ months ahead. Winter shoulder-season (November + January) offers 40% lower rates for the same experience.
Traveler Tips & Insider Knowledge
Editorial and traveler-inspired advice, room request ideas, and community ratings for Ashford Castle
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Insider Tips (3)
Book the Manor House for value
State Suites are €4,500+/night. Manor House rooms are €890 and you have full castle access — dining, falconry, cinema, spa. Save €3,500/night and use it for a helicopter transfer.
Falconry is the actual bucket-list moment
Ireland's School of Falconry hawk walk is €175/person for 90 min with a Harris hawk on your gloved arm. Kids 6+ can participate. Book at check-in — sells out same-day.
George V Dining Room dress code is real
Dinner at the George V Dining Room requires jacket for men (no jeans). If you forget, borrow from the concierge (they have a selection). Tasting menu €165 pp with wine pairing €95.