Dromoland Castle was the home of the O'Brien clan, who trace their line to the rulers of tenth-century Ireland. The present building dates from the 19th century, rebuilt in Gothic style in cut stone, and it became a hotel in 1962. It stands beside a lake within a 500-acre estate in County Clare, close to Shannon Airport and within reach of the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way. Rooms are unusually large, with traditional decoration and modern comforts, and log fires and afternoon tea set the pace indoors. The Earl of Thomond Restaurant is formal, with a resident harpist, while the Fig Tree is more relaxed. Outdoors there is an 18-hole championship golf course, falconry, archery, fishing, clay shooting, tennis and estate walks, plus a spa and a leisure centre. For families or golf groups, Dromoland Lodge is a five-bedroom self-catering house on the estate, overlooking the 14th hole and sleeping up to 10, with several living rooms and a large kitchen; it has no daily housekeeping or turndown.
- Nearest airport
- Shannon Airport (SNN), 5 Miles / 8 Kilometres
- Rooms
- 97 rooms and suites, plus two self-catering lodges
Insider tip Book a session at the falconry school, where the falconers show how they train and care for their birds of prey.
Why I choose it A true castle stay with enough on the estate to fill several days, and a sensible base for the west of Ireland.