Ireland’s Dromoland Castle to Close for Six Month “Transformation”

This November, Dromoland Castle will close its doors for six months for the largest redevelopment in its 63 years as a hotel. 

Reopening in June 2027, the 16th-century property in County Clare — near the Cliffs of Moher and along the Wild Atlantic Way — will unveil a comprehensive transformation spanning accommodations, public spaces, wellness facilities, culinary concepts, and cultural programming. 

The project’s centrepiece will be a 3,200-square-foot, glass-enclosed Atrium that will debut in July, reimagining the castle’s historic courtyard as a year-round gathering space for morning coffee, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails accompanied by live music. 

Just a five-minute walk from the castle, the newly created Walled Garden Collection will comprise 13 accommodations within the converted former stables, offering a private retreat for families and multigenerational stays. 

Tucked within centuries-old walled gardens, the setting overlooks a yew tree gallery dating back to 1740, with landscaping influenced by André Le Nôtre, designer of the Gardens of Versailles. 

An additional 16 guestrooms and five suites will introduce The Heritage Collection, occupying an entire floor in a wing directly across from the castle’s main entrance, with select accommodations featuring private balconies. 

Upon project completion, Dromoland Castle will offer 121 accommodations in total, up from 96, including two private Lodges for long-term stays. Rates will start at €650 per night. 

Drawing on the property’s architectural evolution and Ireland’s rich country-house tradition, the redesign will celebrate local craftsmanship through regional materials such as Connemara marble, regarded as the country’s national stone, as well as bespoke metalwork, linen, wool, and velvets. 

A collaboration with Ulster Carpets, the Northern Irish company commissioned to produce the ceremonial carpet for the Coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey, will be reflected in select public areas. 

Dromoland Castle’s historic art collection, spanning 17th-century ancestral portraits, suits of armor, silk claret wallcoverings, and Gothic Revival furniture, will be expanded with contemporary Irish works, including pieces by Limerick-based Noel Donnellan, a master of decorative arts, and Anne Marie O’Leary, whose botanical works beautifully capture the estate’s natural essence. 

Wellness will remain a priority in Dromoland Castle’s next chapter, building on existing experiences including forest bathing in the ancient woodlands, guided meditation in the restorative Whisper Room, and Dr. Barbara Sturm skincare treatments, making Dromoland the first hotel in Ireland to offer the brand. 

Next summer, glass-fronted saunas will debut on the shores of Lough Dromoland, the property’s private lake, creating a natural connection between thermal experiences and wild swimming.  

Under the direction of recently appointed Executive Head Chef Kevin Fleming, a Dublin native with more than 20 years’ experience spanning Europe and the Middle East, The Earl of Thomond will revive classic tableside dining, with dishes and drinks prepared and served before guests. 

Signature moments will include Crêpes Suzette flambé, Irish coffee, Chateaubriand carved to order, and an elegant cheese service, all beneath the restaurant’s iconic crystal chandeliers. The new Grill Room will feature an open show kitchen and live-fire grill, with a menu centred on the finest Irish produce, from expertly dry-aged meats to the best seasonal ingredients. 

Building on beloved, traditional estate pursuits such as falconry, archery, boating, and whisky tastings, cultural programming will expand with experiences rooted in Ireland’s history, craftsmanship, and countryside traditions.