Romantic Castles of Ireland expands its portfolio with the addition of the historic Killeen Castle in County Meath
Romantic Castles of Ireland has announced a strategic partnership to develop the Castle at Killeen , one of Ireland’s most historic & prestigious castles.
Located in Dunsany, Co. Meath. Killeen Castle, which dates back over 800 years, remains a celebrated icon of Ireland’s architectural and cultural history. This landmark addition to the Romanic Castles of Ireland portfolio marks a significant milestone in the group’s continued investment in Irish heritage, tourism, and luxury hospitality.
Welcoming the new acquisition, Howard Corscadden, managing director of Romantic Castles of Ireland said, “Killeen Castle is a landmark of Irish heritage with extraordinary promise for renewal.
“The addition of the Castle marks a major milestone in the Romantic Castles of Ireland’s continued investment and expansion across Ireland’s luxury hospitality and tourism sector. Building on the successful restoration and reopening of Markree Castle in County Sligo in 2017, Romantic Castles of Ireland brings proven expertise in blending heritage conservation with contemporary hospitality.
"The redevelopment of the Castle at Killeen Estate will draw on that experience, ensuring the restoration honours its architectural history while creating a hotel destination.“
Renovations are expected to begin later in early 2026, with a full reopening of the castle scheduled for 2028.
Welcoming the announcement, Joe O’Reilly, CEO Castlethorn, said, “Castlethorn’s vision and continued investment has always been to unlock Killeen Castle Estate’s full potential as one of Ireland’s truly exceptional destinations. We are excited to partner with Romantic Castles of Ireland as they embark on the restoration of the Castle itself. This will complement and mutually enhance the offerings of both organisations, benefiting estate residents, golf tourism development and the wider local community. Together, we share a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the long-term success of the estate; ensuring Killeen Castle Estate continues to flourish as a landmark for Meath and Ireland on a global stage.
Romantic Castles of Ireland and Killeen Castle Golf Services Ltd are committed to ensuring business continuity and stability across all existing and developing operations within the estate. This includes ongoing services already provided by Killeen Castle Golf Services Ltd.
Our ambitious plans for the estate havereally advanced in the past few years with the addition of guest lodge accommodation and continued investment in the championship Jack Nicklaus signature golf course, which has seen a solid growth in memberships, along with the development of houses and the newly launched Loughmore Wood collection of family homes within the estate,” Joe added.
Welcoming the announcement, Philip Rock, General Manager, said, Welcoming the announcement, Philip Rock, General Manager, said, “This is wonderful news that the jewel within the estate that Romantic Castles of Ireland will spearhead the Castle transformation. This strategic collaboration & investment is very welcome news for the fulfilment of the ambitious development plans in place for the entire Killeen Castle Estate"
All bookings including weddings, events, gift vouchers, golf membership, and golf bookings will remain fully secure and unaffected by the new ownership and development of the Castle itself.
The addition of Killeen Castle marks a new chapter in the family-owned group’s national growth, which includes four of Ireland’s best-loved castles: Ballyseede Castle in Co. Kerry, Bellingham Castle in Co. Louth, Cabra Castle in Co. Cavan, and Markree Castle in Co. Sligo which re-opened in 2017. Each Castle has become known for its authenticity, warmth, and award-winning service.
“Our family’s philosophy is rooted in protecting Ireland’s historic buildings and bringing them back to life for future generations. We look forward to working closely with the dedicated and experienced team at Killeen Castle Golf Services Ltd. as we enter this exciting new chapter together. Their passion and track record are central to the estate’s continued success, and we are committed to building on the excellent reputation they have established.” Howard concluded.
As this historic Irish Castle is brought back to life through an ambitious restoration and development, a new chapter is unfolding, one built on vision, collaboration, and successful partnerships. With Killeen Castle Estate and Golf Club having recently hosted the HotelPlanner Irish Challenge which has been secured for this year and next year.