Founded in 1180 by Sir Walter de Riddlesford and later held for over 700 years by the FitzGerald Earls of Kildare, it is one of Ireland's oldest continuously inhabited castles. Associated with the legend of the 'Wizard Earl' Gerald FitzGerald, it now operates as a luxury castle hotel near Castledermot.
Visiting Kilkea Castle
Yes, operates as a hotel, grounds accessible to guests
"Founded in 1180 by Sir Walter de Riddlesford and later held for over 700 years by the FitzGerald Earls of Kildare, it is one of Ireland's oldest continuously inhabited castles."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Kilkea Castle, 4.65 km away in Castledermot — Built in 1180 by Hugh de Lacy for Sir Walter de Riddlesford; the surviving keep is largely 15th-century and it was the principal seat of the FitzGerald Earls of Kildare for around seven centuries.
Nearest castle hotel · 4.65 km
Kilkea Castle
Castledermot, Co. Kildare · 4-star
Check rates & book →