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Originally Built In
1825
Associated Family Names
Keanes, Gore, Knox, Doran
Rooms
10
Famous guests
Grace O’Malley, Ireland’s Pirate Queen
Type of Architecture
Neo-Gothic
Location
Louth, Ireland
Perfect for
Couples, Weddings, Family Gatherings, Forest Escape
Property type
Exclusive Use
For the majority of its life, Belleek Castle has been a family residence. As you sweep up the drive, the castle, which was constructed in the outstanding Neo-Gothic style between 1825 and 1831, continues to make an impression.
The architectural elements and period décor found throughout the castle’s manor house, which was designed by the renowned Irish Victorian architect John Benjamin Keanes, are exquisite. The level of detail in the turrets, stone columns, elaborate wood paneling, and beautiful vaulted ceilings is astounding. There is still much to appreciate about this opulent blend of Victorian and medieval elements.
The original building of the castle is believed to have existed since at least the 13th century before 1825. The Tower House Castle from the 13th century that formerly existed on the banks of the River Moy is the source of the name Belleek Castle.
The history of the site as Belleek Castle starts here, as the castle was the ancestral home of Sir Arthur Gore, the first Earl of Arran. The Gore family received 14,000 acres of land in Ballina as a grant under the 1662 Act of Settlement. The Gores, one of Mayo’s most powerful families, grew the estate to an impressive 33,000 acres over several generations. At this point, the Belleek Castle property extended to the Moy Estuary’s banks.
The family changed their last name to Knox-Gore in the 1700s when Mary Gore, Arthur Gore’s niece, married Francis Knox. In 1818, Mary and Francis’ grandson, Francis Arthur Knox-Gore, inherited the property.
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The sweeping lawns, huge spaces, roaring ocean, and aromatic ancient woodland all contribute to the storybook romance of Belleek Castle's luxury weddings. A Neo-Gothic castle with historical roots serves as your magnificent castle setting. You will be at one of Ireland's most enchanting castle wedding locations, surrounded by one of the biggest urban forests in Europe. Every dream can come true here, from exquisite medieval manor house wedding venues to our rustic barn wedding venue, outdoor areas, coastline location, and opulent hotel accommodations.
Beautiful medieval halls with wood-paneled walls, chandeliers, antiques, armour, and vaulted ceilings are all tastefully furnished in our award-winning, luxurious castle wedding location. There are options to fit events of all sizes and styles among our extensive selection of venues.
You have an abundance of options for more distinctive or private settings, like the Dungeon, Tween Deck, award-winning Library Restaurant, Lord Aaron's Room, and more. A striking wooden bar, mullioned windows, hardwood floors, and notable wooden seats finish off the nautical-themed interior. As your team unwinds, authentic Irish Guinness and rare Irish whiskies are a necessity from Armada's charming bar area.
Belleek Castle
Belleek Castle Hotel, Garrankeel, Ballina, Co. Mayo, F26 KV04, Ireland