Ireland is the perfect destination for your dream elopement :)

Although I have been to Dublin (and loved it, can’t wait to go back), I’ve not had the honor of photographing an elopement there. You might be planning and Ireland elopement, and so I’ve done some research for you! If castle’s are your thing, this list is for you! If you’re not into traditional venues, this list is also very much for you :) If you’re looking for something a little more unique, a little more personal, or a little bit more dark and stormy than your hometown…an Ireland castle elopement may be just the thing for you. Can you imagine having your destination wedding in Ireland?

I’ve compiled a list of the top 5 castles to help you make your dream come true…and mine, because I’m hoping you bring me with you…

1. Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle, a stronghold built around 1200, is located in County Cork, Ireland, and is believed by many to be one of the most romantic destinations on earth.

It is one of the best-known castles in Ireland, and it’s also one of the most popular destinations for elopement. It’s not just because the location is beautiful; it’s also home to a famous stone called the Blarney Stone. Legend says that if you kiss this stone and make a wish, you’ll be granted your heart’s desire. If you’re lucky enough to get married at Blarney Castle (and some people are), then you can kiss it as part of your ceremony!

Visitors can enjoy the beauty of an elaborate garden while walking up a path leading to the fortress. The view from the top of the castle is breathtaking, and it’s not hard to see why it was included in many films throughout the years. 

It’s a popular Irish castle elopement destination for those who want a private ceremony or just want to visit one of Ireland’s most famous castles. Because who doesn’t want to visit a castle?

2. Kilkea Castle

Kilkea Castle is perfect for any destination wedding in Ireland. This castle is located in County Kildare, and it’s a stunning blend of modern amenities and traditional Irish charm. It’s been renovated and updated to include everything you could want in a wedding venue, which includes a gorgeous garden with an arbor, an indoor ballroom with vaulted ceilings, and plenty of space for pictures. 

The castle itself is set on 180 acres of land, so it is very easy to find different spots around the grounds to take your photos. Kilkea is also available for overnight stays, so you can stay on-site and make the most of your Ireland castle elopement! Talk about romantic. To be getting married in a castle is one thing, but then to stay in it for your honeymoon weekend? Like you own the place? Sign me up.

3. Ballygally Castle

Ballygally Castle is located on the Antrim coast, just 26 miles from Belfast. It’s a perfect setting for an Irish castle-themed elopement!

Dating back to 1625, it’s the only 17th Century building in Northern Ireland that you can actually stay in. It has been carefully restored to its former glory, preserving the character and charm of this historic building.

This is a one-of-a-kind venue, and ideal for a castle wedding in Ireland. It has so many original features and antique furnishings to give your experience an air of character. And so much charm. The views are spectacular, and the grounds are perfect for an elopement. You can take advantage of their beautiful gardens! Or, if you want to get even closer to nature, head down to the beach. You can say your vows overlooking the sea :)

4. Dunluce Castle

Dunluce Castle is a ruined fortress on the coast of County Antrim. It was built in the late 1300s and is a romantic spot for an Ireland Castle Elopement nowadays. The remains of this castle sit on a grassy cliff above the sea with views that stretch all the way to Scotland. The ruins sit surrounded by a beautiful garden and have steps leading down to the beach. The views from Dunluce are incredible! It’s easy to imagine how this structure would have looked when it was first built.

Today remains of Dunluce Castle stand in ruins against a picturesque backdrop of green grass, sea views, and mountains. The site can be accessed via a pedestrian bridge connecting Dunluce to the mainland.

This venue is stunning – perfect for a castle wedding in Ireland!

5. Huntington Castle

Ireland is home to some of the most beautiful castles in the world, and Huntington Castle has a lot going for it.

The grounds are gorgeous, with stunning countryside and beautifully maintained gardens. The rooms are perfect for an intimate occasion like a wedding or an elopement. The castle has centuries of history to offer any couple, there is no chance you’ll run out of ideas. Huntington Castle dates back to the the early 1600s, so you’ll be exploring its rich history for quite a while!

The castle is sitting inside the picturesque, historical village of Clonegal, County Carlow, just one hour outside Dublin. Huntington Castle is beautiful for all sorts of occasions – not just weddings and elopements!

Ireland Castle Elopements are a beautiful way to start your new life together. The scenery is breathtaking, the countryside is peaceful, and the people are friendly. There are so many castles in Ireland, I found it difficult to narrow it down to my top 5 favorites!

Each of these castles has its own unique charm and personality. Planning on having a destination wedding in Ireland? Let me come with you! You can find me here :)

Not sure what goes into planning an elopement?

I’ve put together a simple checklist that will help point you in the right direction! You are well on your way :) Happy planning!