| Castle occupation  Barberstown
Castle in Co. Kildare was built in the 13th century and is one of the
few houses in Ireland which has enjoyed continuous occupation for more
than 400 years.
It was briefly owned by Eric Clapton before he sold it to the present
owner who has in turn transformed it into luxury lodgings.
Today the 4-star Castle and Country House Hotel is a member of both Ireland’s
Blue Book and the Historic Hotels of Europe.
A double-height conservatory-cum-drawing room leads off from the main
reception area and leads into the old wing. Narrow corridors are lined
with old oil paintings and prints, antique desks, stag heads and ornaments.
Heavy oak doors lead to the bedrooms all different and spanning the centuries.
The bedrooms are huge boasting supremely comfortable beds and luxurious
bathrooms.
The main restaurant is actually a series of small beautifully laid rooms,
and the food is seriously good modern Irish, classic and contemporary.
There’s a private hotel bar a nice touch which is relaxed and
friendly.
www.barberstowncastle.ie tel 00 353 1 6288 157; Room prices from €230
including a breakfast which will set you up for the day.
An added bonus if you want to venture out is that award-winning chef Richard
Corrigan has opened a new restaurant The Mill just 15 minutes drive away.
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