Barberstown Castle
Straffan, Ireland
Straffan, Straffan, Ireland,
Original Property Opened in 1288
Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2011
Gathering accolades and distinctions from centuries of distinguished guests, Barberstown Castle’s rich and colorful heritage makes it an Irish treasure with more than 800 years of stories to recite next to its glowing fireplaces. From Lord Dunsany to Arnold Palmer, from Sean Connery to Bob Dylan, this historic castle is where discriminating travelers embark on journeys through Irish history that combine comfortable yet elegant accommodations with explorations of the Emerald Isle. Guests are invited to create new memories at this cherished hotel in County Kildare and encouraged to meld with nature, make cultural discoveries, and bask in the splendor of the pristine, 20 acres/8 hectares of gardens. Barberstown Castle’s historic accommodations inspire travelers to reach beyond known worlds and to indulge themselves with authentic Irish culture and hospitality, dine on exquisite cuisine, and experience moments that are to be treasured, remembered, and never forgotten.
Discover
- Discover Barberstown Castle’s ancient stone battlement. The structure is the most historic portion of the hotel, having been constructed during the 13th century. Nicholas Barby originally built the tower in order to protect the surrounding village from a rebel known as Vi Faelain.
- Admire the luxurious accommodations of this magnificent historic hotel. Barberstown Castle has hosted many illustrious luminaries over the years, including Sean Connery, Bob Dylan, and Arnold Palmer.
- Stroll throughout the grounds of Barberstown Castle. Guests will find many picturesque landscaped gardens that have existed at the Barberstown Castle for more than eight centuries.
Explore
- Explore Dublin Castle. While most of the current structure originates from the 18th century, the medieval castle within the complex has existed since the reign of King John I of England. Today, Dublin Castle serves as both a major meeting spot for members of the Irish government, as well as an enduring symbol of Irish heritage.
- Visit Castletown House. This stunning Palladian-style building was originally built during the 1700s as a courtly manor for the former Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, William Conolly. Castletown House is now one of County Kildare’s most iconic historic landmarks.
- Travel to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Founded in 1191, this beautiful Gothic church is both the tallest and largest of its kind in all of Ireland. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is one of the few medieval structures left standing in Dublin.
Experience
- Experience Trinity College in downtown Dublin. This prestigious educational institution is Ireland’s most historic, having been founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I of England. Walk through its stunning Old Library, which is filled with ancient manuscripts that date back centuries.
- Tour the National Museum of Ireland. Located in the heart of Dublin, this remarkable cultural institution has a collection of over 4 million artifacts that chronicle several thousand years of Irish history.
- Shop along the historic Grafton Street. Running from Trinity College to St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street is one of the main thoroughfares linking Dublin together. It is also one of the most luxurious shopping districts in the entire world, as well as a popular destination for local buskers.
Taste
- Taste a legendary Guinness Stout in nearby Dublin. Brewed in St. James’s Gate since 1759, Guinness has become synonymous to Ireland itself. Be sure to travel to the historic Guinness Storehouse to savor this iconic beverage.
- Feast upon a classic Irish dish known as coddle. Beloved among natives throughout Dublin, coddle is a delicious combination of sausage, bacon, onions, and potatoes. Come try this local culinary pastime at such renowned restaurants like The Hairy Lemon and Gallagher’s Boxty House.
- Delight in some Irish stew when traveling around County Kildare. Perhaps Ireland’s greatest native dish, Irish stew consists of a mouthwatering combination of meat (typically lamb), potatoes, onions, and other vegetables. No trip to the Emerald Isle is ever complete without tasting this exquisite meal.
FEATURED ACCOMMODATIONS
Featured Offer
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotelsWorldwide.com and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in the United States, a member of the International National Trusts Organisation.
