It’s one thing to visit a castle, but it’s an entire adventure to stay overnight in one.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living like royalty, wandering through grand halls, sleeping under towering turrets, and sipping champagne in a room where lords and ladies once dined (YES PLEASE!) then this is for you.

From Ireland’s misty countryside to England’s charming landscapes, here are six incredible castles where you can book a stay and feel like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale.

Castle Hotels in the United Kingdom and Ireland ⬇️

Ashford Castle – County Mayo, Ireland

Ashford Castle isn’t just a hotel, it’s an experience. Tucked away in County Mayo and dating back to the 13th century, this five-star stunner has hosted everyone from John Lennon to Oscar Wilde’s family. With luxurious suites, a world-class spa, and activities like archery (we tried this and turns out this is an area I excel in – who knew?!)… you’ll never want to leave.

The best part? The castle sits on 350 acres of jaw-dropping Irish countryside, making it the perfect place for long walks, boat rides, or simply sipping a whiskey by the fire.

Dromoland Castle – County Clare, Ireland

If staying in a castle wasn’t enough, this one also will appeal to golf fans out there! Dromoland Castle, located in County Clare, has an 18-hole championship course on its vast estate. But even if golf isn’t your thing, this five-star retreat is pure magic.

From its sweeping staircases to the cosy drawing rooms, everything about Dromoland is a dream come true. You can explore the woodlands, indulge in afternoon tea and try your hand at archery.

Just be warned: once you sink into the plush four-poster beds, you may never want to get up.

You can also explore more with my perfect Wild Atlantic Way castle crawl itinerary here…

Ballynahinch Castle – County Galway, Ireland

Want to wake up to the sound of a river flowing outside your window, surrounded by lush green mountains? Welcome to Ballynahinch Castle.

Located in Connemara, this castle is in the west of Ireland. A stunning estate that is less about turrets and tapestries and more about rugged luxury.

It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day fly-fishing, hiking through the wild Irish landscape, and then warm up by the fire with a pint of Guinness. If castles had a cosy, understated cousin, Ballynahinch would be it.

Thornbury Castle – Gloucestershire, England

For a true Tudor experience, head to Thornbury Castle in England! This historic gem was once owned by Henry VIII (yes, that Henry VIII), and you can even sleep in the very room where he and Anne Boleyn stayed. I know I never shut up about Thornbury Castle but that’s because it’s one of my all time favourites.

Expect grand four-poster beds, suits of armour in the hallways, and candlelit dinners that feel straight out of a medieval banquet. It’s history, but make it luxury.

Bonus? The castle’s walled gardens are dreamy, and if you’re a fan of English countryside charm, this is the ultimate escape.

Waterford Castle – County Waterford, Ireland

Some castles sit on rolling hills. Others have moats. But Waterford Castle? It’s on its own private island.

This beautiful Irish castle is only accessible by a private ferry, making it feel like your own secret hideaway. Once inside, you’ll find rich wood-paneled walls, stone fireplaces, and a level of coziness that makes you want to stay forever.

The bedrooms and bathrooms here are slightly dated, but it does feel authentic to the experience.

The surrounding grounds offer golf, falconry, and woodland walks, but truly… Just the fact that you’re staying in a castle on an island is enough of a reason to book.

Check out my ultimate road trip to visiting 8 Castles to visit in Ireland’s Ancient East here!

Cashel Palace Hotel – County Tipperary, Ireland

OK so I’m going to call this kind of castle adjacent. The newest addition to Ireland’s luxury castle hotels, Cashel Palace, brings history and modern elegance together. Once a bishop’s palace, this gorgeous estate looks up to the Rock of Cashel, a medieval site straight out of a history book.

Inside, it’s all about soft neutrals, chandeliers, and the kind of old-world charm that makes you feel like you belong to a different era. It’s giving Bridgerton vibes in the best way.

Plus, the spa is next level, featuring an outdoor thermal area where you can soak while taking in the breathtaking views.

Barbican Gate – Glenarm Castle, Northern Ireland

Time to head to Northern Ireland to stay overnight in what I’m calling…. a MINI CASTLE?!

This gothic mini-castle was once gatehouse to the larger Glenarm Castle estate.

It’s been lovingly restored by the Irish Landmark Trust. Yes, you really can to sleep in a mini-castle!

Entering into this little castle does require going up plenty of steps on a spiraling stone staircase.

There is one bedroom and then up another flight, the living room and kitchen… and the last flight takes you up to the rooftop where there is a table and benches to enjoy.

We LOVED the fireplace and lit one immediately (and also opened a nice bottle of red that we picked up on the way).

The nice thing about staying in self catered spots is picking up whatever you like for dinner and just enjoying staying in at night on the property. We made a cheeseboard, had pasta and it was the loveliest evening.

Truly add staying overnight in a castle to Northern Ireland to your bucketlist!

So, Which Castle Hotel Will You Pick?

Each of these castles offers something unique, whether it’s island seclusion, medieval history, or pure five-star luxury.

The hardest part? Deciding which one to stay in first!

Would you rather sip afternoon tea at a former bishop’s palace, or spend the night in the same castle as Henry VIII? Either way, one thing’s for sure, you’re in for a royal treat.

Kelly xoxo