Killeavy Castle is a Grade A listed building that has recently won many hospitality awards such as ‘Castle Hotel of the Year’ at the Irish Hotel Awards. Secluded in the countryside of County Armagh, it is the perfect hotel for a midweek or weekend break. I visited for a luxurious stay in Country Armagh and already looking for a chance to return. Killeavy Castle Estate is a hidden gem in Ireland to add to your list whether you’re looking for Midweek break, seasonal break, or spa break.
Location:
Nestled in the breath-taking Slieve Gullion of County Armagh, Killeavy Castle Estate emerges as an enchanting sanctuary, offering respite from the chaotic rhythms of the modern world. The sprawling 350-acre property, comprised of a harmonious blend of farmland and woodland, perfect for those seeking an idyllic escape to unwind and escape.
The Rooms:
Killeavy Castle Hotel is home to 45 bedrooms. Decorated in soothing contemporary style, the soft grey tones contrast against either burnt orange, buttercup yellow, winter teal or sage green. These colours represent the seasonal colours of the surrounding landscape.
The rooms are very spacious with three kinds to choose from: Deluxe Guestroom, Superior Guestroom and Kennedy Guestroom. Each room will have a super king-sized bed or two doubles depending on your preference. The Kennedy Guestroom has an additional king-sized bed which is ideal for families. I was lucky enough to stay in a Walled Garden Guestroom which had an incredible view of the estate.
The rooms are complete with a large wardrobe, flatscreen TV plus tea and coffee making facilities. The bathroom featured a power shower and bath with bath salts provided. I was delighted to see there were Ritual toiletries making me feel even more pampered.
The Castle:
In the mid-19th century, Killeavy Castle was built as a family home and has offered tranquil and private luxury for almost 200 years. The Castle, Hotel and estate opened to the public in 2019 after undergoing extensive renovation. In the reception area you can see photos of what the castle looked like before the renovation compared to what it looks like today.
Residents of the estate can stroll around the castle grounds and it is also a popular wedding venue. If you want to really treat yourself, you can book a stay in the Castle which can sleep up to 8 people with 4 bedrooms, a Fire Room, Tea Room, Dining Room and Circular Library.
The Spa:
There is an amazing spa to relax and unwind, equipped with a whirlpool, sauna, and outdoor hot tub. You can relax and stare at the greenery views. You can also book treatments in the spa from facials, massages to holistic therapies. Choosing a spa retreat in Killeavy Castle Estate will have you leaving rejuvenated.
Dining:
The hotel offers two restaurants: the main restaurant and the Bistro Bar. The former is open Thursday to Monday inclusive from 6:00pm to 9:00pm. Here you can choose from four or seven-course tasting menus. The menus are From Farm to Form with the dishes coming from the estates’ sustainable farm.
We tried the seven-course tasting menu and were very impressed. Each course tingled our tastebuds, and we couldn’t wait for the next course to arrive. The staff were incredible and provided information about each dish when served.
My favourite dish was the Petits Fours which were macaroons accompanied with a smoke illusion when you pour the jug of water provided into the glass plant. It created such a cool effect! The menus change seasonally, and you can view them in advance of your stay:
The Bistro Bar also serves a great selection of cocktails as well as Estate Signatures such as Mourne Mountain Martini and Peacocks Tale. You can even stop by the estate for a Sunday Lunch or Afternoon Tea to relax at the weekend overlooking the stunning estate views. Afternoon starts at a reasonable £27.50 per person.
The Breakfast:
I was very impressed with the breakfast options during my stay at Killeavy Castle. You can choose from a Continental breakfast menu, hot buffet, or dishes from the kitchen such as eggs benedict and buttermilk pancakes.
Breakfast is served in the main restaurant from 8:00am to 10:00am Monday to Friday and 8:00am to 10:30am on Saturday and Sunday. You can enjoy your morning coffee with sweeping views of the green countryside.
Final Thoughts:
As a haven for slow living and savouring life’s simple pleasures, Killeavy Castle Estate entices its guests to bask in those cherished “ahhh” moments when you want to escape from everyday distractions.
Killeavy Castle helps you get closer to what’s important whether it’s appreciatingnature’s wonders, becoming fascinated with history, spending quality time with loved ones, or embarking on a quest for personal rejuvenation. I highly recommend a stay in this luxurious estate in Country Armagh.
This review has been written following a complimentary press stay but all opinions are my own. A huge thank you to the lovely staff at the hotel for having me.
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