For over five years before I met Jimmy, I knew that I wanted to get married in Ireland. I just did not know the name of the groom. I knew that I wanted a fairytale wedding in a country that is rich in history, has a beautiful green countryside, good food, and fun people. As I did more research on Ireland, I set my heart on having my wedding at an Irish castle, and I wanted the castle to be at a place where I could have fun and party with my friends and family.
Then approximately six years ago, I met a boy who had the last name of "Walsh". Fate? When Jimmy and I knew that we wanted to get married and spend the rest of our lives together, I told him about my dream wedding. He was so excited. He told me that his grandparents were from Ireland. From the first day, Jimmy was just as excited as I was to have our once-in-a-lifetime moment in a castle in Ireland.
Then we found the most magical address in Ireland - Dromoland Castle. Dromoland Castle is truly magical. We cannot wait for you to see it. When you round the driveway as you are approaching the castle, it will take your breath away. By the time that you drive up to the castle's entrance, the theme song from Downtown Abbey will probably be playing in your head. When you step into the lobby, you will already know that this weekend is going to be epic.
As you can tell, the castle is special. But, there were so many other reasons that we chose Dromoland as our wedding venue. One of those reasons is its location. As beautiful as the castle and grounds are, the surrounding area is stunning as well. We knew that Dromoland and the Emerald Isle would be the perfect location for not only a elegant and beautiful wedding but also an unforgettable weekend with our family and friends. So we created a long weekend itinerary that will truly be unforgettable and memorable - but also fun!
We want to show you why we fell in love with Ireland, Dromoland Castle and the Irish people. It is our sincere wish for you to fall in love with Ireland too. We firmly believe that you will be putting Ireland (and specifically, Dromoland Castle) on your list for favorite places to visit again!
Dromoland Castle is the special place that we have chosen for our wedding in Ireland. We keep calling it magical, and you will definitely agree after your visit. Dromoland was the ancestral home of the O'Briens of Dromoland, the descendants of Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland. Dromoland has been welcoming guests since the 16th century, and they know how to do it right.
Dromoland Castle has so much to offer. Dromoland promises to surround you with history, grandeur and luxury. The estate is large, green and gorgeous. There are so many activities to do on the grounds. The food is delicious, and the presentation is sublime. The dinning experience is definitely an Instagram-worthy event. The cocktails in the cocktail bar are masterpieces in their own right.
The rooms and the accommodations in the castle are so nice and the beds are so comfortable. Trip Advisor guests rated Dromoland as the "The World's Best Hotel for Sleep 2023".
However, for us, what makes Dromoland so special is the staff, the Irish people and their dedication to make sure that every need and want is fulfilled.
When you visit, you will meet two special men. They are the most recognized faces at Dromoland for the guests. John O'Conner has been working at Dromoland for almost 50 years. His younger brother, Mike O'Conner, has been working for Dromoland for over 40 years. These men will go out of their way to make you feel special.
While staying at Dromoland, there are so many activities to enjoy. Below is a list of the activities that are offered on the estate. If you chose, you never need to leave the estate.
Estate Activities
Falconry
(we would highly recommend)
Spa Facilities
Golf
The Golf Academy
Leisure Center
Tennis
Archery
Fishing
Horse Riding
Pony and Trap Rides
Clay Shooting
Estate Walks and Cycles
Tennis
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
We would strongly suggest that you visit Dromoland's website for more detailed information as to the activities.
Dining at Dromoland
The Earl of Thomond is Dromoland's main restaurant.
The Fig Tree is a bistro style restaurant located in the Golf and Country Club.
The Gallery is an alternative casual dining area located between the restaurant and the cocktail bar. You will be able to eat while sitting in a comfortable sofa. Also depending what time that you are dining, you may also be entertained by a local Irish singer.
Cocktail Bar at Dromoland. When you visit the bar, you will realize that you have just taken a step back in time. The bar was once the O'Brien family's wonderful library. The bartenders are magicians.
Dining at the Inn of Dromoland
Deerfield Restaurant is where the Inn serves their buffet breakfast in the morning and their table d'hote dining in the evening.
Shannigans Gastro Pub serves a more informal dining experience with a full bar menu containing snacks, light meals and dinner.