A 17TH CENTURY castle hotel in Castlebellingham, Co Louth, originally offered for sale in 2008 at €6.75 million, had its asking price cut earlier this year to €2.85 million and, in a final push to shift it, the 21-bedroom hotel is now available for €1.75 million.
Pat O’Hagan of Savills says that Bellingham Castle, for years one of the top wedding venues in Co Louth, may well be bought by a private group or society as a support or rehabilitation centre or for educational or business purposes. The hotel is currently closed.
The castle has a grand entrance via a stone tower and gate-lodge along a tree-lined avenue to an enchanting site high above the River Glyde. There are stone steps down to the water’s edge and an old weir with footbridges and walkaways. A millrace adds to the charm of the place along with a wooded island dominated by a huge weeping willow.
The castle stands on 17 acres of mature gardens and was operated as a hotel for many years. The overall floor area of 2,416sq m (26,000sq ft) includes two large banqueting halls, two conference rooms, a large bar and lounge and 21 bedroom suites.
New owners will have to upgrade much of the ivy clad castle, particularly the 10 original bedrooms in the main building. The remaining bedrooms were added about 20 years ago to accommodate wedding guests. The bar and lounge have views over the river and old world gardens.
Bellingham Castle is located on the edge of Castlebellingham village about seven miles from Dundalk. It is located roughly halfway between Belfast and Dublin.
