Smithstown Castle

Ballynagowan Castle

Located on the West coast of Ireland in the beautiful County Clare, Smithstown Castle is the perfect place to start your Irish adventure. Set away from busy roads on almost 5 acres of mature grounds and overlooking a river valley, the Castle offers tranquillity and privacy – and yet you’re just a stone’s throw away from the diverse and exciting attractions Clare has to offer.

Step inside and experience a true 15th Century Irish Castle, authentic in style yet with all the comfort of the 21st Century. Smithstown Castle is a self-catering accommodation sleeping up to 8 – ideal for small groups, families or small events. We offer affordable prices, the best location on the west coast of Ireland and a chance to make your Irish experience unforgettable. Contact us now and secure your booking.

Testimonials

“I have no words to express how amazing my experience was in Smithstown Castle! The rooms were authentic, yet cosy. The great fireplace added a majestic feel to the place. Again, staying in the ancient Castle is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Thank you for this unbelievable experience!!”



- George and Luda

“Had the most amazing, memorable time in this beautiful Castle. Angela was exceptional! Aran Islands is a must, so incredibly scenic! The surrounding towns are beautiful as well. At night, make sure you go outside and look up at the sky - the stars are amazing! If you sleep in the top bedroom, try to remember everything you need before coming down, it’s a long walk! And… apparently now we are the coolest parents for renting a castle! Enjoy your magical stay!”



- The Reese Family, New York, USA

“A huge thanks to Angela for the lovely warm welcome upon our arrival, the helpful suggestions and being available if we had any queries! Smithstown Castle has not only proved itself to be an incredibly beautiful historical building, but also a cosy home for the Dawson family. The surroundings themselves were fantastic for the curious minds of a 6-, 8- and 10-year-old. Smithstown Castle has been a great experience and a fabulous alternative to the typical hotel. With any luck we will be back one day!”



- The Dawson Family, Belfast, Northern Ireland

“What an enchanting building, set in a jewel. The Burren took our breath away, as did the stalactite in Doolin. Our boat trip to Inis Oirr was a great success, made even more exciting by the strong force 5 winds. All the local food we devoured was excellent, but special mention must go to the smoked salmon in the Burren Smokehouse – truly world class. The coast road is spectacular, but we found amazing views by turning off the main roads and simply getting lost. When we needed to find our way again, help was at hand from the fairies by turning our jackets inside out. Ballynagowan Castle is the star of the show – hard to tear yourself away from, especially when it’s tipping down and blowing a gale. Our boys couldn’t believe we were staying in a castle and their wonderment continued all week. We’ll never forget them dwelling in the Great Hall. Angela is a delight and full of great suggestions – thank you.”



- The Cardigan Family, West Wales

“Smithstown Castle was everything we expected and so much more!! From our family hide and seek games to dining by candlelight, to our fabulous treasure hunts – and that’s before venturing outside of the Castle. It was quality family time in a very special place. I have family on the West Coast of Ireland but had never ventured to Co. Clare before – all the people were incredibly warm and couldn’t do enough for us. Thank you Angela, you really made our visit all the more special. We will remember our fantastic stay at the Castle for a long time to come.”



- The Vernon-Weechs, Newcastle, UK

“We are both sad to be saying fare-well to this majestic Castle tomorrow. After a week, I can honestly say we have completely fallen in love with the Castle and all of County Clare. We chose Smithstown Castle over a year ago because my Doug wanted to turn 40 in a Castle. At the stroke of midnight last night, he entered a new decade. As much as we anticipated our stay here, the history and the energy has beyond exceeded our wildest dreams.”



- Heather and Doug, Knoxville, USA

“We loved County Clare - and coming back to the Castle after exploring the Burren was a really nice touch. We liked how the Castle was away from the busyness of the towns, but also close enough to everything so we never had to drive far. I doubt we’ll ever again stay at a castle that is ours alone, so it was most definitely worth the stay. Definitely the most unique and coolest place I’ve ever stayed!"



- The Yeager Family, Michigan, USA

“It is with great sadness that we leave this wonderful old Castle. From the minute we arrived, Angela, the Castle, the local townsfolk and Ireland as a whole provided the ideal setting and atmosphere for an incredible X-mas holiday! Thank you sooo much!”



- McCormicks, USA

“Though we vary greatly in taste, interests and experience in travel abroad, the stay in Smithstown Castle was nothing short of a rousing success. This launch point for our journey through Ireland was comfortable, charming and otherwise unforgettable.”



- Meagan Milstead, USA

“Our stay in the Castle was more than we could have ever expected. We experienced quality time with family and friends, the amazing beauty of Ireland, and the unbelievable hospitality of the locals. This truly is a magical place.”



- Webb’s wedding group, Indiana, USA

“We had a great time staying in this amazing Castle. Played games every night in front of the fire. It was grand!! Was definitely a change without WiFi and was surprisingly enjoyable. Was very cosy and loved waking up here.”



- Emily, North Yorkshire, UK