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Belleek Castle

Situated just outside Ballina amidst 1,000 acres of woodland and forestry, on the banks of the River Moy, Marshall and Jacqueline Doran’s castle was the ancestral home of the Earl of Arran and, with a 16th century armoury, big open fires and massive chandeliers among many quirky features, it now makes an unusual small hotel.

This is a wacky place for those who enjoy something out of the ordinary and it would be great fun for a group get together. The Armada Bar is a recreation of the Captains Ward Room from a galleon in the Spanish Armada - partly constructed from timbers salvaged from the galleons of the ill fated Castile Squadron wrecked off County Mayo four centuries ago, it should provide plenty of talking points to pep up your drink.

Belleek Castle is as different from a standard modern hotel as it is possible to be (it is registered as a one star hotel), but it manages to combine old world charm with modern comforts - bedrooms will vary according to their position in the house, but the best are bright and spacious, with four-poster beds and views out over the grounds.

It makes a romantic wedding venue (the banqueting room is in medieval castle style), and the many activities to choose from nearby include championship golf, walking, surfing, and salmon and trout fishing on site; or, with its informal and friendly ambience, the castle simply makes an unusual base to explore this beautiful area.

Rooms 15. B&B from €80-160 pps, ss €20.

Directions:

Follow signs on way into Ballina for Belleek.