Clontarf Castle, which is presently a hotel, dates to 1837. It is located in Clontarf, Dublin, in an area famous for the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. The first castle on the grounds, of which no trace remains, was built in 1172. The current building was designed by the Irish architect William Vitruvius Morrison for John Edward Venables Vernon, the then owner. He rebuilt it in 1837 when the previous building was determined to be unsafe. Presently, Clontarf Castle Hotel has been significantly enlarged by the addition of modern wings. It is a great place to stay to experience what it is like to live in an authentic Irish castle.
Clontarf Castle Hotel, Ireland cover page.
Exterior view of Clontarf Castle with Christmas lights lit up at night.
Note the leaded windows.
View inside the castle through a leaded window.
The Clontarf Castle lobby.
Medieval fireplace in the lobby.
Note the vaulted ceilings.
Looking up at the upper floors from the lobby.
Stairs going to the second floor from the lobby.
View of the vaulted lobby from the second floor.
Suit of armor in the lobby.
A regal-looking carved wooden chair fit for a king.
A bronze lion statue adorning the lobby.
Christmas tree by the front door of Clontarf Castle.
Bar and restaurant of Clontarf Castle.
Sitting lounge with medieval tapestry outside of the restaurant.