03/02/2026
🏰 History of Ashford Castle
🔹 Medieval beginnings
The castle was founded in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman De Burgo (Burke) family as a fortress and the main stronghold of the region. Situated on the shores of Lough Corrib, it served as a strategic base of power in the province of Connacht.
🔹 Changes of ownership
Over the following centuries, the castle changed hands several times:
• In the late 16th century, it was seized by the English official Sir Richard Bingham.
• In the 17th century, the estate passed to the Browne family, who expanded it and built a hunting lodge in the style of a French château.
🔹 The Guinness era
In 1852, the castle was purchased by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness of the famous Guinness brewing dynasty. He transformed the estate into a luxurious residence, enlarged the grounds, planted thousands of trees, and added new buildings in Victorian and Neo-Gothic styles. His son, Lord Ardilaun, continued the expansions and landscaping.
🔹 From private residence to hotel
In 1939, Ashford Castle was sold to Noel Huggard and converted into a hotel. Since then, it has operated as a five-star property, renowned worldwide for its luxury, historic atmosphere, and picturesque landscapes.
🔹 Cultural significance
The castle and its surroundings were used as filming locations for the iconic movie The Quiet Man (1951) starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, further strengthening its cultural importance.
🔹 Today
Today, Ashford Castle is considered one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, attracting guests from across the globe, including celebrities and VIP couples (for example, golfer Rory McIlroy held his wedding here).
