There are several castle hotels in Galway where you can live like a king or queen for a night!
As you may know, the are many Irish castle hotels where you can, for an often (but not always!) sizable fee you can kip for a night or two!
Now, just to clear something up in advance – there are only 3 or 4 castle hotels in Galway, however, there are plenty of actual castles that you can rent to yourself.
Castle Hotels in Galway and nearby

Photos via Ballynahinch on FB
In section 1, you’ll find the best castle hotels Galway has to offer, from swanky stays in the magnificent Ballynahinch, to more pocket-friendly nights away, in the Abbeyglen.
Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we’ll make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.
1. Ballynahinch Castle

Photos via Ballynahinch Castle on FB
Set amidst 700 acres of woodland and rivers in Connemara, Ballynahinch Castle offers a mix of heritage charm and modern comfort.
The interior is warm and inviting, featuring antique furniture, roaring fireplaces, and elegant artwork that reflect the castle’s storied past.
Rooms range from cosy classic options to luxurious suites, each fitted with plush beds and soft linens for a restful sleep.
Overlooking a serene river and the rugged 12 Bens Mountains, the castle provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation, fishing, and exploring the scenic Wild Atlantic Way.
2. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel

Photos via Abbeyglen Castle Hotel on FB
Next up is one of the more affordable castle hotels in Galway. Located on the famous Sky Road in Clifden, Abbeyglen Castle Hotel has a rich history dating back to 1832, originally built by John d’Arcy and later serving as an orphanage.
The interiors feature ancient stone walls, antique furnishings, and inviting leather chairs, maintaining a sense of its historical past.
Rooms vary from cosy originals to luxurious suites, some with four-poster beds and fireplaces.
Guests are treated to stunning views of the Twelve Bens Mountains and Clifden Bay, making it an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Connemara’s beauty and history.
3. Glenlo Abbey

Courtesy Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate, Galway
The final of the 3 castle hotels in Galway in our guide is the incredible Glenlo Abby – one of the finest 5 star hotels in Galway.
Situated on the serene shores of Lough Corrib, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate blends 18th-century elegance with modern luxury.
The interiors are a feast for the eyes, featuring grand arches, lush floral wallpapers, and period furnishings that exude sophistication.
Guests can choose from classic rooms to opulent suites, each equipped with plush king-sized beds and luxurious linens.
The hotel is also renowned for its unique dining experience in the Pullman Restaurant, housed in two original Orient Express carriages.
4. Ballindooley Castle

Photos via Ballindooley Castle
Located just 5 minutes from Galway City, Ballindooley Castle is a striking medieval fortress set amidst lush greenery and rolling hills.
Inside, the castle features sturdy stone walls, a spiral staircase, and a grand great hall, exuding historical charm and authenticity.
Accommodations include multiple floors with cosy bedrooms, a living room with an open fire stove, and a fully fitted kitchen.
Despite modern amenities, the castle retains its medieval allure, offering a unique stay steeped in history, making guests feel like true nobility.
If you’re looking to stay in a castle in Galway and you’d like the place all to yourself, look no further.
5. Castle Hacckett

Photos via Booking.com
Nestled in Belclare, around a 40-minute drive from the city, CastleHacket House offers a historic and tranquil escape, surrounded by nature and steeped in local folklore.
The interiors boast early 20th-century furnishings, spacious rooms, and elegant touches like crisp Egyptian cotton bedding.
Guests can choose from the King’s Room, Friar’s Room, or the larger Kirwan Room, all with ensuite facilities.
Known for hosting notable guests like King Edward VIII, this charming estate provides a peaceful retreat with gourmet breakfasts and views towards Knockma Hill.
6. Claregalway Castle

Photos via Claregalway Castle
Located on the banks of the River Clare a 25-minute drive from the city, Claregalway Castle is a beautifully restored medieval stronghold with a rich history dating back to the early 1400s.
The interiors combine historic charm with modern comfort, featuring luxurious bedding, underfloor heating, and a selection of unique rooms like the Old Mill and River Rooms.
Guests can enjoy a generous continental breakfast and complimentary wine, making their stay even more memorable.
Once a strategic site for the Clanricarde Burkes, this castle now serves as a tranquil retreat that could easily go toe-to-toe with the best castle hotels in Galway.
7. Cregg Castle

Photos via Cregg Castle
Built in 1648 by the Kirwan Family, one of the 12 tribes of Galway, Cregg Castle is nestled within 180 acres of serene pasture and woodlands a 20-minute drive from the city.
Inside, the castle retains its historic charm with original features and art-filled reception rooms, courtesy of host and artist Alan Murray.
Accommodation includes two spacious family rooms, named after famous guests, each with a mix of double and single beds, and ensuite facilities.
The castle offers a unique, rustic escape with no WiFi or TV, making it ideal for those seeking peace and a connection with nature.
Explore beyond the Galway castle hotels
Have you spent a night in any of the castle hotels in Galway that we’ve mentioned in the guide above?
If so, did you think it was worth the cash? Let me know in the comments below (it only takes a sec!).
If you’re looking for places to visit, see my guide on what to do in Galway.
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- The fanciest luxury accommodation and 5 star hotels in Galway
- 7 very swanky spa hotels in Galway
- 15 of the most unique Airbnbs in Galway
- 13 scenic places to go camping in Galway
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.