The majestic Kinnitty Castle, surrounded by a 1000 acre estate, lies at the foot of the Slieve Bloom mountains near the historic town of Birr in County Offaly. The original Castle was built by the Normans in the 13th century and later became the seat of the O'Carroll clan. The Bernard family had the castle renovated in the 18th century by the architect-brothers Pain, whose other work alos included Dromoland Castle and Adare Manor .
Kinnitty Castle today
Today the castle offers all the comforts of a modern hotel. Beautiful antiques adorn the elegant interior, which features a Louis XV-style drawing room and the Library Bar with its antiquarian books. The decor of the bedrooms is in keeping with the period style, each with views over the estate. The spacious Georgian restaurant seats 60 while 2 separate suites are suitable for small business groups. Horse-lovers are well-catered for here with trekking in the mountains, riding lessons, cross-country and hunting all being organised by the Equestrian Centre. Clay pigeon shooting and tennis are available on the estate while fishing and golf trips can be organised. Activities in the Spa and Leisure Centre complete the range available.
The present building emerged after its destruction in 1929.
Why visit Kinnitty Castle?
First, the sheer size and beauty of the estate (20000 acres) is enough to engender at least four of the seven deadly sins. Second, its convenient position- almost equidistant from Dublin, Limerick and Galway. Third, its wealth of wildlife and game make it a paradise for almost every country pursuit. Nowadays, there is a fourth reason for your interest: the dedication to good food and wine. The hotel has recently undergone a 3 million Pounds refurbishment to put it among Ireland's leading luxury hotels. An exceptional place for lovers of good food and the great outdoors.
Guest Reviews of Kinnitty Castle
...the room was at the top of the building, nothing but long narrow halls and literally 3 long/steep flights of stairs to haul bags...and another flight down to get to the pub.
Craig Miron on Mon Dec 1 2008
Great experience. The only negative was a fairly strong kerosene smell from the heaters. But would recommend a night or two to anyone interested in a castle stay. Also nice resting spot as we traveled north to south (visiting Clonmacnoise and then Cashel as we drove.)
Judy Mcgovern on Tue Sep 23 2008
We had a perfect stay at Kinnitty. It was a fairytale come true!
Heather Brown on Wed Jun 4 2008
It was fun to see and stay in a truely "old" castle.
Elsa Lynch on Fri Aug 3 2007
What a great experience and the staff was absolutely fantastic. We highly recommend this facility.
