Is Clontarf Castle a real castle?
The Clontarf Castle of today dates back to 1837 and is located in Clontarf, Dublin, Ireland. The area is famous for being the key location of the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. It is believed that the first castle on the grounds was built by either Hugh de Lacy or his tenant Adam de Phepoe in 1172. The castle was then held by the Knights Templar, and later passed to the Knights Hospitaller until their suppression in 1308.
In 1600 Queen Elizabeth I granted the estate to Sir Geoffrey Fenton, her secretary of state for Ireland, and it passed by marriage from his descendants to the King family. At the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland, the Clontarf estate was given to Captain John Blackwell who later sold it to John Vernon, Quartermaster General of Cromwell’s army. The Vernon family remained in possession for some 300 years until 1933 when it was purchased by the Oultons.
In 1957 Mrs Egan bought the castle and then sold it to Eddie Regan in the 1960s. Gerry and Carmel Houlihan purchased the building in 1972 and ran it as a popular cabaret venue until 1998. The castle was then renovated and transformed into a four-star, 111-room hotel which opened to the public in June 1997. It is now managed by Tifco.
Clontarf Castle is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern day luxuries. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and take part in activities such as falconry and archery. They also have the opportunity to sample dishes from the hotel’s restaurant which serves up traditional Irish cuisine with an international twist.
The hotel also offers a variety of rooms and suites, making it an ideal place for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Clontarf Castle is sure to leave visitors with lasting memories.
Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
Sharing is caring!
Why You Need The Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide (it’s Free)
Are you planning a trip to Ireland? If so, then the Ultimate Ireland Travel Guide is an essential resource. From money and travel documents to facts about Ireland and Irish customs, this guide will give you all the information you need for your trip.
County Dublin Ireland | Things to See and Do
Sharing is caring!
County Dublin (Irish: Contae Bhaile Átha Cliath[2] or Contae Átha Cliath) is one of the thirty-two traditional counties of Ireland
Though it is Ireland’s third smallest county, Dublin is home to roughly a third of Ireland’s population. The county is made up of Dublin and the surrounding areas of the capital city, and borders Wicklow, Meath and Kildare.
County Dublin stretches in an arc around Dublin Bay, from the quaint and fashionable towns of Malahide and Howth in the north, to the main harbour town of Dun Laoghaire, and Dalkey bordering the Wicklow Mountains to the south. Central to the county is Dublin, Ireland’s famously vibrant and colourful capital city.
Ready for that trip to Ireland? Start planning here!
Secure Your Dream Irish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Ireland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions spoil your journey. Iconic experiences like visiting the Cliffs of Moher, exploring the Rock of Cashel, or enjoying a guided walk through Ireland’s ancient past often sell out quickly—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Ireland’s hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!