The Most Beautiful Castle Weddings in Ireland
There’s something incredibly captivating about a castle wedding. The sense of history, the grand architecture, and the surrounding landscapes create a setting where every moment feels like a scene from a romantic novel. In my years as a wedding florist, I’ve been fortunate enough to work in some of the most stunning castles across Ireland, creating bespoke floral designs that complement these remarkable venues. Here are some of my favourites for a truly magical castle wedding.
Ashford Castle: Timeless Luxury in a Breathtaking Setting
Ashford Castle, located on the shores of Lough Corrib in County Mayo, is one of Ireland’s most iconic wedding venues. This magnificent 13th-century castle, now a five-star hotel, has a rich history that blends ancient Irish tradition with modern luxury. The castle's medieval architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding woodland make it an idyllic setting for a wedding that feels both timeless and extravagant.
For couples seeking a luxury experience, Ashford Castle offers a range of exquisite wedding options, from intimate ceremonies in its historic rooms to grand celebrations in its opulent ballroom. The castle also features stunning outdoor spaces, perfect for ceremonies overlooking the lake or elegant garden receptions.
When it comes to florals, Ashford Castle is the perfect backdrop for lush, romantic designs that complement its grand interiors and sweeping landscapes. Soft, cascading arrangements of roses, hydrangeas, and greenery enhance the regal feel of the venue, while classic colour palettes of whites, blush pinks, and greens pair beautifully with the castle’s opulent décor. The castle’s timeless elegance is ideal for those who dream of a wedding that feels like stepping into a romantic fairytale, with floral designs that add to the magic.
Ashford Castle’s impeccable service, combined with its rich history and luxurious surroundings, ensures that every detail of your wedding will be taken care of with the highest standard of care and professionalism.
Photograph: Elizabeth Toher, source: The Irish Times
Luttrellstown Castle Resort: Where Historic Elegance Meets Modern Sophistication
uttrellstown Castle, located just outside Dublin, is a true gem for couples seeking the romance of a castle wedding with the convenience of modern facilities. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle's enchanting architecture and sprawling estate provide a stunning backdrop for any wedding celebration. With its blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury, Luttrellstown offers the best of both worlds—perfect for couples looking for a venue that combines grandeur with modern style.
The beauty of Luttrellstown lies not only in its majestic stone towers and grand interiors but also in the flexibility of its spaces. The castle’s rooms, from its intimate dining areas to its grand halls, lend themselves beautifully to a variety of floral designs. Whether you envision an opulent, flower-filled ballroom or a more understated ceremony surrounded by classic florals, this venue allows for endless creativity.
The stunning estate offers endless opportunities for bespoke floral arrangements. Whether it's decorating the historic stonework with trailing ivy and wild blooms or adding lush greenery to enhance the castle’s timeless charm, floral designs here always take on an ethereal quality. Luttrellstown Castle is perfect for couples who want to blend old-world elegance with contemporary flair. The venue’s expansive gardens and courtyards offer further possibilities for outdoor ceremonies or lavish floral installations, with the castle’s stately façade as a dramatic backdrop.
When it comes to choosing the right floral style for Luttrellstown, modern minimalist designs work particularly well, highlighting the castle's architectural beauty while adding a touch of sophistication. Clean lines, elegant whites, and delicate greenery create a chic, refined look that complements the historic elegance of the space without overwhelming it. For couples looking to make a statement, bold, sculptural floral installations can be used to accent key areas such as the castle’s entrance or the grand dining rooms.
With its rich history, luxurious amenities, and flexibility for customisation, Luttrellstown Castle is an ideal venue for couples who want a wedding that blends traditional grandeur with modern-day sophistication.
Photograph: Hannah Brooke
Kinnitty Castle: Gothic Romance and Historic Charm
Kinnitty Castle, nestled in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, offers a truly romantic and dramatic atmosphere, perfect for couples who dream of a wedding with a sense of history and grandeur. This Gothic-inspired 19th-century castle, with its soaring turrets and ivy-clad walls, is an ideal setting for a wedding that embraces both elegance and boldness. Surrounded by ancient forests and stunning natural landscapes, Kinnitty Castle is equally well-suited for both intimate indoor ceremonies and outdoor celebrations amidst nature’s beauty.
The castle's unique character makes it a favourite for couples who want a venue with real personality. Its dark wood-panelled interiors, grand staircases, and striking stone walls create a rich backdrop for bold floral designs that complement the castle’s Gothic charm. I particularly enjoy working at Kinnitty Castle because it allows for creativity in floral choices—rich, moody tones such as deep burgundy, plum, and emerald green, paired with lush textures, perfectly enhance the castle’s dramatic aesthetic.
Whether your ceremony takes place in one of the castle’s grand rooms or in the beautiful gardens, the surroundings invite floral designs that make a statement. For indoor celebrations, large floral installations or dramatic centrepieces in rich colours and opulent arrangements can elevate the castle’s already regal atmosphere. The Gothic architecture is ideal for striking floral designs with cascading greenery, wild arrangements, and bold textures that add depth to the venue’s historical grandeur.
Kinnitty Castle’s outdoor spaces, surrounded by woodlands and mountain views, offer a breathtaking setting for outdoor ceremonies. Imagine exchanging vows beneath archways adorned with lush florals, with the castle’s majestic façade in the background. The natural beauty of the area also provides an ideal backdrop for more organic, nature-inspired floral designs that blend seamlessly with the landscape.
With its Gothic-inspired architecture, rich history, and dramatic atmosphere, Kinnitty Castle is an exceptional venue for couples who want their wedding to feel grand and unique. The castle’s blend of dark elegance and natural beauty lends itself to bespoke floral arrangements that bring out the venue’s inherent drama, ensuring your wedding is both memorable and breathtaking.
Dromoland Castle: A Grand Setting Steeped in History and Elegance
Dromoland Castle, with its rich heritage and stately grounds, is the ideal venue for couples who want to marry in a place that exudes history and grandeur. Dating back to the 16th century, this majestic castle, once the ancestral home of the O'Brien family, offers a truly royal experience for weddings. With its magnificent façade, sprawling gardens, and opulent interiors, Dromoland Castle provides an unrivalled setting for both grand ceremonies and intimate receptions.
The castle’s grandeur allows for a wide range of floral possibilities, and I love working at Dromoland because it offers the perfect canvas for dramatic, large-scale installations. The grand staircase is an iconic feature, often adorned with cascading floral garlands and luxurious blooms that set a regal tone from the moment guests arrive. The castle’s banquet halls, with their tall ceilings and rich detailing, are equally well-suited for elaborate floral centrepieces, adding a touch of luxury to every table.
Outdoor ceremonies at Dromoland are equally breathtaking, with the castle’s sweeping lawns, manicured gardens, and serene lake offering stunning backdrops for your vows. Floral arches, lush garden-inspired arrangements, and elegant aisle décor are perfect for creating an unforgettable outdoor ceremony in these majestic surroundings. The venue’s expansive grounds also provide endless opportunities for elegant photo backdrops, making your day as picturesque as it is memorable.
When it comes to floral designs, Dromoland Castle suits lush, romantic arrangements that enhance the timeless elegance of the venue. Think cascading bouquets with classic roses, peonies, and rich greenery, or elaborate floral installations that transform the castle’s grand spaces. Soft, elegant colour palettes - creams, blush pinks, and deep greens - work beautifully with the castle’s luxurious interiors and historical architecture, creating a sense of refinement and romance.
For couples seeking a wedding that blends history, luxury, and elegance, Dromoland Castle offers everything you could dream of. Its magnificent surroundings and versatile spaces make it a perfect setting for bespoke floral designs that elevate every aspect of your day, ensuring your wedding is nothing short of spectacular.
Photograph: Niall Scully
Castle Leslie: A Fairy Tale Venue with Rustic Charm and Personal Touches
For couples who dream of a castle wedding with a more intimate, fairy tale atmosphere, Castle Leslie is the perfect choice. Nestled within 1,000 acres of picturesque parkland in County Monaghan, this family-run estate exudes warmth, charm, and a sense of enchantment. Unlike some of the grander castles, Castle Leslie has a unique, welcoming character that makes it feel like your own private world, offering a blend of history, nature, and personal touches that set it apart from the rest.
Castle Leslie’s interiors are rich with personality, with each room reflecting the history and character of the estate. The castle’s charming, lived-in feel lends itself beautifully to a range of floral styles, from delicate and whimsical to bold and dramatic. I love working at Castle Leslie because it allows me to design florals that capture the venue’s romantic, fairy tale essence. Whether it’s fairy-like arrangements with soft blooms and trailing greenery or striking centrepieces that stand out in the castle’s ornate dining rooms, the space provides endless creative opportunities.
The estate’s sprawling parkland and beautiful lake provide a stunning natural backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The rustic, organic beauty of the grounds works wonderfully with loose, wildflower-inspired floral designs, creating a natural and effortless feel for outdoor weddings. Whether you’re exchanging vows by the lake or hosting a reception under a marquee on the grounds, Castle Leslie’s enchanting landscape makes every moment feel magical.
Inside the castle, floral designs can range from soft, romantic bouquets of roses and wildflowers to more dramatic, seasonal arrangements that echo the venue’s rich textures and colours. The castle’s character-filled rooms, with their high ceilings, antique furniture, and intricate woodwork, provide a perfect setting for floral installations that reflect both elegance and whimsy.
Castle Leslie is the ideal venue for couples looking for a castle wedding that feels personal, magical, and deeply rooted in nature. With its blend of rustic charm, fairy tale atmosphere, and the warm, personal touch of a family-run estate, it offers a unique and unforgettable setting for your wedding day. Floral designs that embrace the natural beauty and character of this venue will ensure your celebration feels as magical as the castle itself.
Ballyseede Castle: Historic Charm and Timeless Elegance
Ballyseede Castle, located in the heart of County Kerry, is a stunning 16th-century castle surrounded by 30 acres of woodland and manicured gardens. Known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere, Ballyseede offers couples the perfect blend of elegance and intimacy. This enchanting venue is steeped in charm, with its grand staircases, antique-filled rooms, and beautiful grounds providing a timeless backdrop for a romantic wedding celebration.
One of the things I love about Ballyseede Castle is its versatility when it comes to floral designs. The castle’s interiors, with their high ceilings, intricate woodwork, and luxurious décor, are perfect for elegant, classic florals that enhance the beauty of the space. From sophisticated centrepieces in the banquet hall to delicate floral arrangements adorning the grand staircase, every detail adds to the castle’s sense of old-world romance.
The gardens and grounds surrounding Ballyseede Castle offer stunning options for outdoor ceremonies. The lush greenery and centuries-old trees create a natural, picturesque setting that pairs beautifully with soft, organic floral designs. Think delicate roses, peonies, and trailing greenery for a romantic garden-inspired look. The grounds also provide endless opportunities for outdoor floral installations—whether it’s an arch covered in wild blooms or a floral-adorned gazebo, the estate’s natural beauty is the perfect complement to bespoke floral arrangements.
Floral styles that suit Ballyseede Castle often embrace timeless elegance with a hint of luxury. Classic roses, hydrangeas, and peonies in soft shades of ivory, blush, and green create a refined yet romantic atmosphere, while touches of gold or deep tones can add a sense of opulence. Large floral installations, whether in the castle’s grand entrance or as part of the reception décor, highlight the venue’s regal charm and create a stunning visual impact.
Ballyseede Castle is ideal for couples looking to combine the elegance of a historic castle with the charm of a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Its timeless beauty and versatile spaces make it a perfect choice for weddings that are as enchanting as they are sophisticated. Whether your vision is classic and refined or romantic and garden-inspired, Ballyseede Castle provides the perfect canvas for bespoke floral designs that will make your wedding day unforgettable.
Photograph: Wonder & Magic