Kilkea Castle wedding

Kilkea Castle in County Kildare is a rare gem—a stunning 12th-century castle with the pedigree to match its historic grandeur, all within an hour’s drive of Dublin and Dublin Airport. Castles of this caliber are few and far between in such close proximity to the capital, and Kilkea offers couples the chance to take over the venue for the day. With its sweeping grounds, historic stone walls, and versatile spaces, the castle is equally suited for intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.

Alex and Craig, an infectiously fun couple from London, made full use of everything Kilkea Castle has to offer! Alex and bridesmaids got ready in the luxurious bridal suite at the Willow Lodge, a cozy yet elegant retreat just steps from the main castle. The suite is also available the night before the wedding, making it a practical option for brides looking to stay close to the action.

The day began with a gorgeous ceremony at St. Brigid’s Cathedral in Kildare – a genuinely beautiful open space, followed by a lively drinks reception back at the castle. Dinner was held in the grand Baronial Hall, and the evening culminated in an outdoor first dance in front of the castle—an incredibly romantic moment made even more magical by a spectacular fireworks display that followed immediately after.

Kilkea Castle, Co. Kildare – Photography by Elaine Barker

Holding your wedding ceremony at Kilkea Castle

Kilkea Castle offers several options for hosting your ceremony, whether you prefer an indoor or outdoor setting:

• Indoor Spaces: The elegant Drawing Room, located on the castle’s second floor, is ideal for smaller, intimate ceremonies. For larger gatherings, the Baronial Hall provides a dramatic setting with its chandeliers and historic stonework.
• Outdoor Spaces: The Rose Garden and main lawn offer breathtaking backdrops, with the castle’s towering walls adding a sense of grandeur. These spaces are perfect for sunny days and create a seamless blend of history and nature.

With such a variety of options, couples can tailor their ceremony to suit their style and guest list, all while enjoying the convenience of having everything on-site.

Wedding Receptions at Kilkea Castle

From drinks receptions to full-blown evening celebrations, Kilkea Castle provides spaces designed to accommodate every aspect of your wedding day:

• The Baronial Hall, with its capacity for up to 270 guests, is a stunning choice for larger dinners. Its ornate decor and historic ambiance make it a showstopper for grand celebrations.
• For smaller receptions, Restaurant 1180 offers an intimate dining experience for up to 60 guests, complete with views of the Rose Garden and golf course.

Drinks receptions can be held inside the castle or outdoors on the lawn, depending on the weather. Alex and Craig’s day demonstrated the venue’s flexibility, with guests enjoying a mix of indoor elegance and outdoor festivities.

Table setting at Baronial Hall, Kilkea Castle

Venue highlights and packages

What sets Kilkea Castle apart is its unique combination of history, practicality, and thoughtful details:

• Exclusive Use: The castle hosts only one wedding per day, giving you and your guests full access to its grounds and facilities.
• Pre-Wedding Amenities: Enjoy spa treatments, golf, and even falconry on the estate, or stay the night before in the cozy Willow Lodge.
• Comprehensive Packages: Wedding packages include Chiavari chairs, silver candelabras, personalized menus, and bar extensions to simplify planning.
• Trusted Suppliers: Kilkea Castle’s curated list of photographers, florists, and other vendors ensures seamless coordination.

How Much Does a Wedding at Kilkea Castle Cost to book in 2025?

The cost of a wedding at Kilkea Castle in 2025 depends on the package you choose and the time of year. For winter weddings, held between November and February, prices start at €135 per person. Winter weddings here are always fabulously atmospheric with the castle providing a cozy setting during those colder months. You can check out a winter wedding at Kilkea Castle through Kaity and James’ irish castle wedding here.

For weddings outside the winter season, packages start at €165 per person and can go up to €305 per person, depending on the features included. Higher-end packages offer additional options such as Champagne and signature cocktails, as well as extended bar service.

Videography and Photography at Kilkea Castle

Kilkea Castle’s spaces, both indoors and out, lend themselves beautifully to storytelling. whether through photography or videography. A combination of sweeping landscapes, vast gardens, and historic interiors provides an incredible variety of settings for documenting everything from intimate moments to grand celebrations. The tree-lined avenue makes for dramatic arrival shots, while the Rose Garden and castle’s striking architecture create a memorable backdrop for portraits and cinematic sequences.

First dance in front of Kilkea Castle, Co. Kildare. Photography by Elaine Barker

On Alex and Craig’s day, we worked alongside photographer Elaine Barker. We’ve collaborated with Elaine on numerous events and appreciate her attention to detail and calm presence, which are invaluable on a busy day. From the couple’s romantic outdoor first dance in front of the castle to the fireworks lighting up the night sky, the castle provided endless opportunities to document these special moments beautifully.

Our videography focused on capturing not just the key moments but also the atmosphere of the day beginning with the incredible interiors of St Brigids Cathedral through to the lively reception in the Baronial Hall and the heartfelt speeches which we used throughout our Creative Film.

Location and Accommodation for You and Your Guests

Kilkea Castle offers a variety of accommodation options, and with 34 rooms available at preferential rates, the venue ensures guests can stay close and enjoy the celebration without the need for additional travel.

• Castle Bedrooms: Eleven unique rooms with historic charm and modern comforts.
• Lodges: One-, two-, and three-bedroom lodges with private outdoor spaces—perfect for families or small groups.
• Carriage Rooms: Located in the courtyard, these recently refurbished rooms are ideal for larger parties or families, with many offering interconnecting options.

Convenience is another key feature of Kilkea Castle, and the castle is well-suited for both local and international guests. The venue is understandably popular with overseas visitors looking for that genuine irish castle experience and Dublin Airport is but a short journey away, while Dublin itself is easily accessible via the M9 Motorway.