Weekend Hotspot: Barberstown Castle - Straffan Co Kildare

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Barberstown Castle Co Kildare

Barberstown Castle, Straffan, County Kildare a high end luxury hotel is one of the finest of its kind in Ireland. Built in the thirteen century the castle's contemporary and historic design sits comfortably with the Victorian and Elizabethan wings connected to the original building. The Castle was built as a fortress to protect the village and local people from the attack of the rebellious "Vi Faelain", who tried to burn the town in 1310. It has traditionally found itself in the middle of political struggle and local wars which generally resulted in change of ownership.

Since 1288 Barberstown Castle has had 37 owners who have all who had the foresight to protect its heritage and character including Eric Clapton who purchased the property in 1979 and eight years later sold it to local businessman Ken Healy, who now resides on the grounds. He has carefully renovated this splendid property from a 10 bedroom guesthouse to a 59 guestroom, Failte Ireland approved, four-star hotel and member of Ireland’s Blue Book of Country House Hotels & Restaurants. The careful attention given to retaining the original castle features, character, style, and personality of this property ensures each building captures an individuality entirely of its own from one of the four important periods in Irish history in which it was built.


Luxury Reception Rooms at Barberstown Castle Co Kildare

Guest rooms include antique furnishings, four poster beds, and soft armchairs, large wardrobes with full-length mirrors and robes, and dining tables. Rooms also have individual names commemorating former owners or notable guests. Complimentary wireless or wired high speed Internet is an unexpected, yet appreciated perk in a medieval castle. Baths feature powerful showers, porcelain sinks, toilets and duvets, and plentiful towels on heated rails. Barton Suites restaurant serves French-influenced country house dining recommended by the AA and Michelin guides. The main restaurant here is exquisite in décor and presentation. Dining rooms reflect the period characters of the castle, but the menu is as contemporary and rich as can be with delicacies such as local scallops and halibut or Irish beef on offer. The Edwardian tea rooms provide a place for guests to relax, offering comfy couches, afternoon teas, and freshly baked scones. 



Award winning accomodation at Barberstown Castle Co Kildare

The neighbouring village is named after St. Straffan, one of the early sixth century missionaries. Its close linkages with the town and people were proven when an underground tunnel from the Church to the Castle was found in 1996 during renovations. A ‘Priest’s Hole’ can be also found in the Castle which was originally made to protect the priests of the town during Penal Times. Just a few miles further afield lies the spectacular "Castletown", a Georgian stately home built between 1722 and 1729 for the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, William Connolly, and remains Ireland’s largest Palladian style house even today. Barberstown Castlle is a leading member of Ireland's Blue Book a collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, Castles and Restaurants located throughout the island of Ireland.

These charming and stylish hideaways are the perfect choice for a midweek or weekend break and those seeking a romantic getaway. Activities vary from golf, fishing, spas and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and comfortable surroundings.

Residential packages at Barberstown includes one nights deluxe accommodation, with evening meal in private dining and a fully cooked to order Irish Breakfast the following morning all from €150.00 per person sharing. You’ll feel the difference the moment you arrive.  www.irelandsbluebook.com

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