Located on Ireland’s west coast in County Clare, Ballyhannon Castle can be found close to the village of Quin. This is a medieval building that was constructed during the 15th century, and it is a listed and protected building. It is widely considered to be one of the most authentic castles in Britain and Ireland, and it can be rented in its entirety, making it perfect for those who want to arrange accommodation for extended family and friends, for a wedding perhaps or just the opportunity to get the whole family together.

The Castle Layout

The castle has 9 bedrooms and will sleep up to 25 guests, making it ideal for family gatherings or small conferences. There are five storeys to the castle, and guests will enjoy eating in the Medieval dining room, where horses used to live in the early days of the castle. The coach house at the castle also provides accommodation for guests, and you can hire both the castle and the coach house or just one of them, depending upon the size of your party. The castle is a self-catering venue, and the kitchen is fully equipped with everything the guests need.

Recent History of the Castle

In 1969 an American heiress fell in love with the castle and tracked the owner down so she could buy it. Her name was Elizabeth Phillips Irwin, and her family owned one of the largest petroleum companies in the US. She renovated the castle, making good use of the local materials and craftsmen. However, she had to sell the castle following her divorce, so she didn’t get to spend too much time in it. Before the sale though, she made sure that the castle was restored to its former glory and it has been a popular destination for visitors ever since.

Activities

There is so much you can do in this part of the world. Many parties book the castle for team building events such as hill walking, swimming in the Atlantic, paintballing, hiking or indoor activities such as climbing walls. Cycling groups often book Ballyhannon Castle as it makes a great starting point for their trips out each day. The good news is that not all activities require you to be sporty. Why not take a literary tour of the region or simply take the time to explore the local villages?

Ballyhannon Castle is the perfect destination for those who want the freedom of a self-catering accommodation with the charm of a real castle with original medieval features. Many visitors come back time and time again to enjoy not only the delights of the castle but the beauty of the location, which is one of the most picturesque places in Ireland.