Castletown House
Celbridge, Co. Kildare
About
Castletown House is Ireland’s first and finest Palladian style mansion. Built in the 1720s for William Conolly, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons, Castletown House was constructed to exemplify its owners’ influence and immense wealth. In the second half of the eighteenth century, William’s grand–nephew Tom and his wife, Lady Louisa, created the grand interiors that visitors can still enjoy today.
Remaining in the Conolly family until its sale in 1965, the estate was ultimately acquired by the state in 1994.
A tone of grandeur is immediately set upon arrival into the magnificent double height Entrance Hall of Ireland’s first and finest example of Palladian style architecture. This theme of opulence continues through multiple ornate rooms (including Ireland’s only surviving eighteenth century Print Room) that boast a clear commitment to the use of native Irish materials.
Feel the weight of history in a house that was once occupied by the prestigious Conolly family including William, Speaker of the Irish House of Commons and the indomitable Irish noblewoman, Lady Louisa.
Covid Restrictions – The house is open daily from 10am to 5:30pm with last entry at 4:45.
Access is self-guided to the Ground Floor only .
Pre-booking is required as numbers are limited.
Visitor Information
Admission Rates : FREE
Opening Hours
5 March – 16 December
10am – 5.30pm
Last admission: 4.45pm
Access is self-guided to the ground floor only. Pre-booking is required as numbers are limited.
Parklands:
Open daily. Free admission.
Facilities
– Car Parking
– Coach Parking
– On site Courtyard Café
– Wi–Fi
– Toilets on site.
– Tea Rooms: The Courtyard Cafe. Bookings in advance.
Accessibility:
Disabled parking is available at the Kitchen Wing/Café side of the house (the far side of the house as you approach by car).
Please note there is limited accessibility of the museum rooms, and no wheelchair access to the first or second floor of the main house or the Hunting Room in the Stable Wing. Prams and buggies are not allowed in the museum rooms and must be left at reception.
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