Your royal adventure begins when you enter through the grand stone gates of our remarkable 800-year-old castle.
Unrivalled service, warm Irish hospitality and five-star luxury await at Ashford Castle, part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection. Situated in a spectacular 350-acre estate, discover sumptuous rooms and suites, splendid interiors brimming with antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features at every turn.
After more than three and a half centuries under the de Burgos, Ashford passed into the hands of Sir Richard Bingham, Lord President of Connaught, following a fierce battle against the forces of the de Burgos. A fortified enclave was added within its precincts.
The famous Ashford estate was established by the Browne family and a fabulous French style chateau was added to the architectural splendour of the castle. The double-headed eagles are still visible on the roof, representing the Browne’s coat of arms.
Sir Benjamin lee Guinness purchased Ashford and extended the estate to 26,000 acres, building new roads and planting thousands of trees, as well as adding two large Victorian style extensions.
Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness bequeathed Ashford to his son, Lord Ardilaun, an avid gardener who oversaw the Castle’s development and rebuilt the entire west wing.
Ashford was retained by the Iveagh trust on behalf of the Guinness family until it was bought by Noel Huggard in 1939. Huggard established the castle as a first class hotel renowned for the provision of its country pursuits.
The director John Ford came to the West of Ireland to film what would become a movie classic “The Quiet Man”. Many of the film stars stayed at Ashford.
Ashford Castle Hotel was bought by John Mulcahy who oversaw its complete restoration and expansion, doubling the size, building a golf course and developing the grounds.
A group of Irish American investors purchased Ashford Castle. In the 16 years since, Ashford has been voted not only one of the best hotels in Ireland by the most discerning guidebooks, but also one of the top 50 resort properties in Europe.
In May 2013, Ashford Castle was bought by Red Carnation Hotels and began a major refurbishment to bring the castle back to its former glory.
As part of the new refurbishment, Ashford Castle introduced a 30 seat Cinema, luxurious Billiards Room and Cigar Terrace. In 2014, The Lodge at Ashford Castle was acquired by The Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
In August, Ashford Castle introduced the brand new state-of-the-art Spa, wine tasting tunnels and Mrs Tea’s Boutique. The Castle was also voted Best Hotel in the World by Virtuoso.
In June 2016, the romantic and private lakeside Hideaway Cottage was completed – once the old boat shed in the gardens of Ashford Castle.
Ireland’s first school of falconry alongside experiences like horse-riding, fishing, kayaking, and many more were added to the Ashford Estate’s selection of activities, now amounting to more than 30.
‘When Ashford Castle was purchased by The Red Carnation Hotel Collection in 2013, it marked another extraordinary time in the history of the estate. We were privileged to be given the opportunity to restore the castle to its former glory and ensure it could be enjoyed by future generations.
Having been General Manager for almost 20 years, I was particularly proud of the devotion shown by our team during the restoration, especially by those team members who have served the hotel for close to 50 years. Their loyalty and dedication to Irish hospitality is exemplary and the reason we have so many lifelong guests.
Ashford Castle has been the recipient of many notable awards. The accolade of being awarded Ireland’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel and the first Irish winner of Virtuoso ‘Best Hotel in the World’ in 2017 are two I am extremely proud of, for both the Tollman family and our team.
Discover our exquisite interiors, delicious cuisine, passionate team, a wealth of estate activities and state-of-the-art spa. As a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, Ireland’s first Forbes five-star and former home of the Guinness family, we are exceptional in every sense.
Voted No. 1 in Top 10 Resort Hotels in the U.K. and Ireland
Travel + Leisure ‘World’s Best’ Awards 2020
Voted No. 2 in the Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Ireland
TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2020
FISHING
An idyllic place to enjoy fishing
Situated on the banks of Lough Corrib and the River Cong is one of the most famous fisheries in all of Ireland. Covering 44,000 acres, Lough Corrib is the largest of the three lakes in the area and well known for its brown trout, salmon and pike fishing. Your Ghillie (guide), Frank Costello, is internationally recognised as one of the most knowledgeable experts on fishing Lough Corrib, having lived beside the lake his entire life.
FALCONRY
Fly a hawk in the spectacular grounds
Discover the ancient form of falconry at the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland – flying hawks is an experience of a lifetime!
Our aim is to share with you the pleasure and excitement of falconry, a fascination that has enthralled people for 4,000 years, and today provides guests with a unique experience in magnificent surroundings. No previous experience is necessary and our private guided Hawk Walks cater for all ages and families.
CLAY SHOOTING & ARCHERY
A sport that really hits the mark
The Ashford sporting clay range features targets that simulate the game typical of this region. Beginners enjoy a pleasant introduction to the sport and a thorough grounding in the safety and etiquette of shooting in general. You’ll meet at the Equestrian Centre to meet your instructor who will then direct you to the shooting range.
EQUESTRIAN
Riders will be in their element
The ancient forest is steeped in history and heritage and the beautiful woodland paths and spectacular scenery from the saddle will captivate novice and experienced riders alike. From the shores of Lough Corrib, Lough Mask and into the mountains of Connemara to the west, the area couldn’t be more magical for riding.
Situated within easy walking distance of the castle, trail rides and lessons are available for all ages and abilities and are accompanied by an experienced guide. Hard hats and Jodhpur boots are provided.
LAKE CRUISING
A whole new perspective
Lake cruising at Ashford Castle is a magnificent way to explore the pristine surroundings and soak up the scenery at leisure.
With 365 islands and surrounding Connemara Mountains, you will have a great opportunity to photograph Ashford Castle from the water. Corrib Cruises is a family run passenger boat service on Lough Corrib, operated by brothers Patrick and David Luskin. The business was born when father John Luskin, purchased one of the original tenders (lifeboats) from the Cunard Line of the famous QE2 at an auction in Sandwich Marina in Kent in 1975.
CYCLING & KAYAKING
Explore the estate on two wheels
Cycling is a great way to discover the incredible surroundings – getting fit and having fun at the same time! The Ashford Estate itself has some great cycling trails and the countryside, with its relatively quiet roads and spectacular scenery, is a cyclist’s idea of heaven. Cycle hire is available at the hotel and we can suggest a variety of popular routes.
Glide along the Lough
Enjoy kayaking on the River Cong accompanied by your very own experienced guide. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon and is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.
Our three hour Pedal and Paddle experience is the perfect opportunity to explore the Ashford Estate firstly by bike and then by water. Catering for all levels from beginners to the more experienced, the tour starts with a cycle along the quiet leafy lanes that lead to huge expanses of mountains and valleys. You’ll travel along the river bank and take in the breathtaking views of the Ashford Estate, and out onto Lough Corrib in your kayaks where you’ll discover the wonderful peace and tranquillity of this beautiful location.
THE BILLIARDS ROOM AND CIGAR TERRACE
The height of refinement
Retreat to the Billiards Room and enjoy a game of billiards, sink into comfy chairs with a glass of your favourite tipple or enjoy delicious Cuban and Irish tapas. Relax with a newspaper and catch up on the day’s affairs. The traditional elegance of the Billiards Room, with its grand assortment of antique furniture and furnishings is a most welcome addition to the castle. With an impressive selection of beverages, including a selection of finest single pot still whiskey, which is regarded as the real Irish whiskey and is a whiskey style unique to Ireland, it is the perfect quiet spot to enjoy a afternoon tipple or retreat to for a digestif after dinner.
Enthusiastic cigar connoisseur’s will delight in Mr Tollman’s limited cigar collection Including a millennium edition from habanos in a commemorative ceramic jar, Montecristo “A”, Cohiba Esplindidos and Partagas Lusitanias, which can be enjoyed on the adjoining Cigar Terrace. On a rooftop corner of the castle, discover the Cigar Terrace with fantastic views overlooking the River Cong and beyond. With a feature awning, locally made in the village of Cong, and low glass tables with wrought iron chairs, the Cigar Terrace is a beautifully designed space with a flagstone floor in which to relax and enjoy a whiskey, cognac or cigar, or simply to enjoy relaxing in a wonderful setting overlooking the river Cong.
The Cigar Terrace is a popular public space, but is also a favourite spot for private parties with a DJ and wedding groups for up to 30 people standing. Perhaps enjoy a whiskey or wine tasting in the Billiards room and retreat to the terrace on warm summer evenings to soak up the magnificent surroundings.
FOOD & DRINK
Discover creative Irish cuisine inspired by the finest seasonal ingredients from the West of Ireland and produce foraged from the Ashford Estate, alongside an extensive wine cellar kept in the Castle’s secret passageways.
Executive Chef Philippe Farineau gives fine expression to the dishes offered in the four main dining rooms – whether it’s fine dining in the grandeur of the George V Dining Room, casual dining in the beautiful setting of Cullen’s at the Cottage or the atmospheric Dungeon, or a delightful Afternoon Tea in the elegant Connaught Room.
CULLEN’S AT THE COTTAGE
The perfect seasonal setting
This traditional thatched cottage, which used to be Cong Cinema, (showing films on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s, and was the first place to show The Quiet Man even before it was shown in Hollywood), today provides a relaxed dining experience with a casual dress code in which to enjoy international and local dishes inspired by our owner Beatrice Tollman, including our delicious signature dish ‘Chicken Peri Peri’. It is slow cooked in our rotisserie oven in the main dining area, so mouth-watering aromas greet you as soon as you enter the restaurant.
At the front of the building you will now discover a beautifully manicured garden and extended patio area proving a spectacular area to enjoy lunch and sip a cocktail and enjoy the magnificent views of Ashford Castle in the distance.The perfect place to watch the world go by after a walk through the gardens or a round of golf.
Open seasonally, from March through to October it’s just a short stroll over the bridge from the castle. Booking in advance is advisable to avoid disappointment.
This restaurant is open to guests and residents staying at the castle but it has limited capacity.
STANLEY’S
Discover an authentic American diner
A warm Irish welcome with an American twist awaits at Stanley’s, where a beautiful mahogany-and-marble counter bar overlooks a stunning open kitchen.
Expect lively conversation as you watch our Chef prepare the very best signature dishes, including the Patty Melt hamburger, the grilled Black Monterey Jack cheese sandwich and the Elvis sandwich, a combination of peanut butter, banana and streaky bacon that should be tried at least once.
Striking green-and-white fabric wallpaper meets mahogany walls, and a portrait of Elvis Presley by renowned artist Mr Brainwash is set on a beautiful mirror that stretches the width of the room. With only nine leather-and-copper stools, Stanley’s is intimate and fun, with diner classics given an Ashford Castle twist. The original orange freeze drink is infused with Irish tea, while omelettes and bagels are made all the more luxurious with Ashford caviar and Alba truffle.
THE DUNGEON
Dramatic and atmospheric
As its name would suggest, the unique setting located on the lower ground floor of the castle invites diners to enjoy a range of dishes from the bistro-style menu with a focus on traditional Irish cuisine beneath the historic curved stone ceiling. Together with a relaxed ambience, it makes for a wonderful and memorable dining experience.
THE PRINCE OF WALES BAR
Refined traditional style
Built in the late 1800s, the bar is to this day reminiscent of its captivating past, with its opulent fabrics, fine wood panelling, traditional furnishings and original fireplace creating a warm and welcoming ambience – the perfect place to enjoy your favourite tipple or a pint of Guinness. In 1905 the bar was visited by the Prince of Wales, who subsequently became George V of England.
Offering a full selection of cocktails, liqueurs and brandies, sit back and relax and enjoy the finest Irish hospitality.
Our experienced bar team also offer private whiskey and gin tasting experiences that allow you to take a journey through the spirit available between 12 noon and 5pm in The Prince of Wales Bar or 6pm and 8pm in The Billiards Room.
THE CASTLE WINE CELLARS
The Wine Cellars at Ashford Castle offer private wine tastings and wonderful wine dinners in the secret passageways of the castle, which were unearthed during recent renovations. The old servants’ entrance was originally a coal bunker and walkway underneath the castle, where the servants used to come in and get their coal buckets to take up to the rooms. It has now been transformed and the 16th Century tunnels provide three unique private spaces with a cosy ambience and soft lighting. A Coravin system is used allowing some of the world’s most exclusive wines to be sampled without having to take the cork out. This keeps the wine fresh, preserving this for weeks and allows the last glass to taste the same as the first.
The extensive wine list has been carefully curated by our knowledgeable Head Sommelier, where you can sample a fine selection of vintages and a choice of new and old world wines in a remarkable setting. Food pairing can be provided alongside the tastings, to complement the wine selection, as well entertaining with an intimate private dinner, perfect to celebrate all occasions and providing a unique dining experience.
WEDDINGS & EVENTS
Creating memories to treasure
With rooms and suites tucked away in turrets, plush beds and incredible views, there’s no doubt why Ashford Castle wins the award for the most romantic hotel in Europe time after time. For the perfect day that you will remember for years to come, it’s hard to imagine a more magnificent venue.
ROMANTIC, TIMELESS AND MAGICAL WEDDINGS
Ashford Castle is an idyllic setting for a truly awe-inspiring wedding. This 800-year-old castle has an incredible history, a fairy tale location and was recently voted the Best Hotel in the World.
Having welcomed royalty, heads of state and celebrities, our experienced wedding planners are equipped with all the skills, talent and enthusiasm required to make every moment utterly magical. Ashford Castle is the ultimate wedding destination.
ROOMS & SUITES
Each of the 83 rooms and suites at Ashford Castle represent traditional elegance and finesse. Following careful refurbishment, all of the rooms and suites have been individually and lovingly designed, combining the castle’s original features with the latest modern luxuries.
REAGAN PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
The height of elegance
Named after President Reagan, who stayed at Ashford in 1984 as a personal friend of former owner John A Mulcahy.
The Reagan Presidential suite is located in the oldest wing of the castle, boasting an original fireplace, a stunning antique George III style four poster bed, original portrait art, individually sourced antiques and spectacular floor to ceiling views of Lough Corrib.
This split level suite offers two bathrooms and can be combined with two adjacent rooms – the Kennedy Suite and Corrib Lake View Room – to complete a private three-bedroom wing of the castle.
STATEROOMS
Our Staterooms are grand statements of traditional elegance and comfort, combining all the modern amenities you could wish for. These wonderfully appointed rooms are generously proportioned and feature high ceilings with views of Lough Corrib.
Each Stateroom is located in the oldest part of the castle, dating back to the 13th and 17th centuries. Rooms contain feature beds and original fireplaces with exquisite antique furniture. The Staterooms also boast large bathrooms.
KENNEDY SUITE
Luxury awaits
Named after US Senator Ted Kennedy, who stayed at Ashford in the early 1980’s, the Kennedy Suite is located in the oldest wing of the castle and features an impressive selection of antique furniture including a 19th century walnut bed, an early 18th century Spanish Armoire, and an early Victorian Rosewood centre table.
The Kennedy Suite enjoys spectacular views over Lough Corrib and can be combined with the Reagan Presidential Suite to complete a private three bedroom wing of the castle.
