Discover the charm of Castle Leslie Estate in rural Ireland

In the heart of picturesque County Monaghan, just a short drive from both Dublin and Belfast airports, lies the enchanting Castle Leslie Estate. As one of the last great Irish Castle estates still in the hands of its founding family, the distinguished Castle Leslie is nestled on 1,000 acres of beautiful Irish countryside. But this is far more than a luxury 4* castle hotel – if you’re looking for an idyllic retreat that offers a mix of outdoor adventures and pure relaxation, Castle Leslie Estate is a must-visit. 

To stay

Lovingly restored, Castle Leslie offers guests a world of authentic elegance and old-world charm. Whether you’re looking to stay in The Castle, The Lodge or The Old Stable Mews, each offers something different for guests to enjoy. If you want to experience the real authenticity of the castle, 21 unique bedrooms can be found inside – perfect for you to enjoy the castle’s original interiors. 

Meanwhile The Lodge is known for being the social hub of the Estate, with locals and guests enjoying all it has to offer including Snaffles Restaurant and Conor’s Bar and Lounge. There are 50 bedrooms to choose from – all lovingly restored and beautifully decorated to retain their period features and charm – and with its location adjacent to the renowned Equestrian Centre, it’s perfect for those who are looking to make use of the facilities. Every guestroom has all you’d need after a day of riding, with roll top baths, separate power showers and generously sized beds, to truly help you relax and unwind. 

To eat 

As an award-winning restaurant, the extensive menu at Snaffles focuses on sourcing only the best local ingredients. Standout dishes include the duck leg tortellini, 28-day aged fillet of Hereford beef, and raspberry and hazelnut choux bun. After dinner, Conor’s Bar and Lounge is perfect to enjoy a few drinks in a relaxed and friendly setting.  

To ride

One of the biggest draws of Castle Leslie Estate is undoubtedly its world-class equestrian centre, offering an array of incredible experiences for riders of all levels. With 1,000 acres of private estate to explore, loving and well-natured horses, and a myriad of facilities, it’s no surprise that this estate is hailed as one of Europe’s finest equestrian playgrounds.

From gentle hacks around the estate to exhilarating cross-country rides, the equestrian centre caters to all preferences and skill levels. Expert tuition is available for anyone keen to improve their riding, with talented staff handpicked for their knowledge and expertise.

For beginners or those looking to brush up on their skills, the “Learn to Ride in Five Days” package provides a comprehensive introduction to horse riding, with three hours riding per day in group sessions with other riders of similar ability. Meanwhile, the “Happy Hackers” package is ideal for people who simply want to enjoy the pleasures of horse riding in a beautiful setting. Both packages include five nights bed and breakfast, as well as a two-course meal in Conor’s Bar each night. 

More experienced riders can seek a challenge with the “Horse Sport” package which combines show jumping, cross country, dressage, and estate rides, providing an opportunity for guests to hone their skills in a variety of disciplines. 

To do

If horse riding isn’t your thing, there’s a whole range of exciting outdoor pursuits to fill your days instead. Guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the estate with several exceptional walks individually mapped out. For guests seeking a little dose of healthy competition, they can take part in archery or clay target shooting just a short 15-minute drive from the estate. There’s also falconry, fishing and boating within the estate’s Green Lake, as well as horse drawn carriage rides. Last but certainly not least, the estate’s Victorian Treatment Rooms offer guests treatments including deep tissue massages, facials, and reflexology. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, stunning scenery, or world-class equestrian facilities, the historic Castle Leslie Estate offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Alexandra Davis

To book a stay, visit the website or email reservations@castleleslie.com.