FAQs

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01. Planning your stay
02. Bedroom suites
03. Dining
04. The estate and activities
05. Weddings and events
06. Practical information

Is Gilford Castle available as exclusive hire only?

Yes. Gilford Castle Estate is available on an exclusive-use basis only. When you book the estate, you and your group have private use of the castle, guest bedrooms, reception rooms, communal spaces, gardens, woodlands, and grounds throughout your stay. The estate remains a working agricultural property, so normal farming activity may continue throughout the year.
What is the minimum length of stay?

There is no minimum length of stay at Gilford Castle Estate. Whether you are planning a single-day celebration or a longer stay to enjoy the estate with your guests, our Events Team will help you create an experience that suits your plans.
What is included in an estate or venue hire?

Venue hire includes private use of Gilford Castle, its guest bedrooms, reception rooms, communal spaces, gardens, woodlands, and grounds. Our team will discuss your requirements in advance and help shape the arrangements around your stay.
How do I make a booking or enquiry?

Please complete our enquiry form with your preferred dates, group size, and the nature of your stay. We will then arrange a consultation to understand your requirements and provide a tailored proposal.
How far in advance should I enquire?

We recommend enquiring as early as possible, especially for weddings, private events, family gatherings, and stays requiring bespoke dining, activities, or travel arrangements.
Can you help plan our stay?

Yes. Gilford Castle Estate offers a highly tailored experience. From dining and household services to outdoor pursuits, local excursions, and transfers, we can help plan the details of your stay.
Can we book individual bedrooms?

No. Gilford Castle Estate is not available on an individual-room basis. The estate is hired privately and exclusively for each stay.
What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms will be provided with your booking proposal and confirmed before your reservation is finalised.

View our services page for full inclusions.

How many bedrooms does Gilford Castle have?

Gilford Castle has ten individually designed guest suites, each named after a significant figure or family in the castle’s history.
How many guests can the castle accommodate in total?

The castle’s ten bedroom suites comfortably accommodate up to 20 overnight guests. Two suites also have sofa beds, allowing an additional two to four guests to stay, depending on the configuration.
Are all the rooms the same?

No. Each suite at Gilford Castle has its own distinct character, shaped by the history and the individual it commemorates. You might find antique four-poster beds draped in silk, hand-painted wall panels, Chinoiserie wallpaper, or pastoral toile.
Can we request a specific room?

Yes. When you enquire, you are welcome to express a preference, and we will do our best to accommodate your wishes, subject to availability.
Are all bedrooms en-suite?

Yes. All ten individually appointed bedroom suites have private en-suite bathrooms, thoughtfully designed to combine modern comfort with the character and elegance of the historic castle.
What amenities are included in each bedroom?

All bedroom suites have a private en-suite bathroom with marble-topped vanities and heritage fixtures. Guests can also enjoy complimentary bottled water, a Nescafé coffee machine, Gilford Castle Estate robes and slippers, a hairdryer and a thoughtful evening turndown service.
Can the castle accommodate families with children?

Yes. Gilford Castle is well suited to family stays. Several suites offer generous space, and the estate’s grounds provide ample room for younger guests to explore. Please let us know when enquiring so we can advise on the most suitable rooms and arrangements. Younger guests should also always be supervised, this is particularly important around the river, woodland and any activity areas.
Is there accessible accommodation?

Yes. Gilford Castle Estate offers an accessible guest suite with a walk-in shower and grab rails. As a historic listed building, access to the upper-floor bedrooms is limited. If you have specific accessibility requirements, please contact our team in advance so we can help you plan your stay.
Is there a housekeeping and turndown service?

Yes. Our housekeeping team maintain your rooms throughout your stay, with fresh linens, replenished toiletries, and a personalised turndown service each evening.

View our rooms page for full inclusions.

Is Gilford Castle a restaurant?

No. Gilford Castle Estate is not open to the public as a restaurant. Dining is provided exclusively for staying guests and guests attending private events, and is tailored entirely to your preferences.
How does dining work during a stay?

Dining at Gilford Castle Estate is tailored to your preferences. You can select a private chef or catering partner from our preferred suppliers list to create your dining experience. Our Events Team will provide recommendations and support throughout the planning process, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully coordinated.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?

Yes. Please share any dietary requirements, allergies, or preferences when planning your stay, and we will ensure your menus are tailored accordingly.
Where does the castle source its food?

Gilford Castle Estate is committed to celebrating the best of local produce. Ingredients are sourced from Northern Ireland and across the island of Ireland, with a strong emphasis on supporting local farmers and producers. The estate itself contributes honey from its hives, fresh eggs from its hens, herbs grown on-site, and milk from its resident goats.
Can we request a formal dinner or banquet?

Yes. The castle’s dining room is a setting of timeless elegance, well suited to everything from grand formal dinners to intimate suppers. Please discuss your preferred dining arrangements when planning your stay.
Can we bring our own wine?

Yes. You may bring your own wine, subject to a corkage fee.
Is foraging available?

Yes. Guided foraging excursions can be arranged as part of your itinerary, taking guests through the estate’s woodlands and hedgerows to discover seasonal wild foods. These experiences must be booked in advance and incur third-party fees.
Can you arrange visits to local restaurants or food producers?

Yes. Our concierge team can arrange reservations at acclaimed local restaurants and visits to nearby food producers as part of your itinerary.

How big is the estate

Gilford Castle is set within 207 acres of Grade A parkland and mature woodland. The estate extends around a meander of the River Bann, with ornamental gardens, ancient woodland, open meadows, and quiet riverbank paths to explore.
Can day visitors explore the estate?

No. Gilford Castle Estate is not open for general day visits. Access to the grounds is reserved for staying guests and guests attending pre-arranged private events.
Can we explore the grounds on our own?

Yes. Guests are welcome to enjoy the estate at their own pace. The grounds are private and peaceful, with woodland paths, gardens, meadows, and riverbank walks to discover during your stay.
Can we use the River Bann during our stay?

The estate offers access to the River Bann for selected outdoor pursuits, including wild swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. River-based activities must be arranged before your stay and are subject to weather, water conditions, availability, safety guidance, and any applicable third-party fees.
Which activities are included in the stay?

Access to the estate grounds, self-guided nature walks, wild swimming, lawn games, and use of the tennis court are included at no extra cost. Specialist activities, including shooting, falconry, fishing, archery, paddleboarding, kayaking, tennis coaching, golf excursions, and private transfers, can be arranged separately, subject to availability, and incur fees payable to third-party providers.
How far in advance should I book activities?

We recommend discussing activities as early as possible in the itinerary-planning process. Pursuits requiring a specialist guide, instructor, equipment, or external provider, such as shooting, falconry, fishing, archery, golf, and helicopter transfers, should be arranged well in advance and will incur third-party fees.
Are activities suitable for all ages?

Many activities can be adapted for different ages, abilities, and levels of experience. Some pursuits are subject to age, safety, licensing, supervision, or provider requirements. Let us know your group’s ages and interests, and we’ll advise on the most suitable options.
What happens if the weather changes?

Some outdoor pursuits are weather-dependent, especially river-based activities, shooting, falconry, and helicopter transfers. If conditions are unsuitable, we’ll help adjust your plans where possible.
Can you arrange a picnic on the estate?

Yes. Picnics can be arranged in the estate’s meadows, gardens, or by the River Bann, depending on the weather and your itinerary. Please get in touch with our Events team who can arrange this for you at a small additional cost.
Can you arrange golf during our stay?

Yes. World-class golf is available off-site, including Royal County Down, Portrush, and Portmarnock. Tee times and transfers can be arranged as part of your itinerary.
Are the grounds suitable for children?

Yes. The estate is well suited to families, with space to explore and several activities that can be adapted for younger guests. However, younger guests should always be supervised, this is particularly important around the river, woodland and any activity areas.

Is Gilford Castle available for weddings?

Yes. Gilford Castle Estate is an exclusive and intimate setting for weddings. Please get in touch with the team to discuss your requirements and arrange a consultation.
What makes Gilford Castle a distinctive wedding venue?

Gilford Castle is a private, exclusive-use estate set within 207 acres of Grade A parkland and mature woodland. Its Victorian rooms, ornamental gardens, and riverside grounds create a setting of genuine beauty and tranquillity. Every wedding at Gilford Castle is arranged on an exclusive-use basis, meaning the estate is entirely yours for the occasion.
Is the estate licensed for civil ceremonies?

Yes. Gilford Castle Estate is fully licensed to host both marriages and civil partnerships, allowing you to celebrate your ceremony and reception in one beautiful location. We warmly welcome civil, religious, humanist, celebrant-led, and cultural ceremonies, as well as civil partnerships.
Can I provisionally hold a date?

Yes. We are happy to provisionally hold your preferred wedding date, without a deposit, for up to three weeks while you make your decision. If another couple enquires about the same date, we will contact you first and give you the opportunity to confirm before offering the date to anyone else. If we have not heard from you after the three-week hold period, the date will be released.
How can I confirm my booking?

To secure your wedding date, we require a 25% non-refundable deposit and a signed contract. Once both have been received, your booking will be confirmed and your date will be reserved exclusively for your celebration.
Do you have a list of recommended suppliers?

Yes. We have a carefully curated list of trusted suppliers, from caterers and florists to photographers, entertainers, and stylists. They know the estate well and consistently deliver an exceptional experience. Our Events Team will work closely with them to ensure everything runs seamlessly on the day.
Can we arrange a site visit before booking?

Yes. We warmly encourage prospective couples and event organisers to arrange a visit to the estate. Please get in touch to arrange a suitable time.
What other kinds of events does Gilford Castle host?

Beyond weddings, Gilford Castle Estate hosts a carefully selected range of intimate events, including private soirées, art exhibitions, literary evenings, classical recitals, curated tastings, and bespoke corporate retreats.
How many guests can the ceremony accommodate

Ceremonies within the castle can accommodate up to 50 guests. Outdoors, couples can choose from courtyards offering settings for 30 to 120 guests, or garden ceremonies for up to 180 guests.
Are you dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome to join outdoor wedding ceremonies, provided they are kept on a lead and supervised at all times.
What is the dining capacity?

We can accommodate up to 50 guests for dining within the castle and approximately 150 to 180 guests in the Garden Pavilion, depending on the event format and table layout.
Is accommodation included in the overall venue hire?

Yes. As part of the castle’s exclusive hire, all ten bedroom suites are included in your booking and reserved exclusively for your wedding party. You can decide how to manage the accommodation costs: some couples include them in their overall wedding budget, while others arrange for overnight guests to pay for their rooms individually. We will help you choose the option that best suits your plans.
Can Gilford Castle host corporate events or retreats?

Yes. The castle is well suited to intimate corporate gatherings, strategy retreats, and bespoke cultural events. Please get in touch with the team to discuss your requirements.

Where is Gilford Castle Estate located?

Gilford Castle Estate is located at 5 Banbridge Road, Gilford, Craigavon, BT63 6DJ, in County Armagh, Northern Ireland.
What is the nearest airport?

What is the nearest airport? George Best Belfast City Airport is the closest airport to the estate. Belfast International Airport and Dublin Airport are also within easy reach. Private transfers from all three can be arranged. George Best Belfast City Airport is approximately 35 minutes away by private transfer, Belfast International Airport approximately 45 minutes, and Dublin Airport approximately 90 minutes.
Can you arrange airport transfers?

Yes. Private transfers to and from Belfast International Airport, George Best Belfast City Airport, and Dublin Airport can be arranged as part of your itinerary. Private helicopter transfers are also available upon request. All transfers are subject to availability and third-party fees.
What are the parking arrangements on the estate?

There is on-site parking for up to 125 vehicles, including an accessible parking bay and a limited number of electric vehicle charging points.
Can we arrive by helicopter?

Yes. Private helicopter transfers can be arranged as part of your stay. Please discuss this with the team when planning your itinerary. Transfers are subject to availability and third-party charges.
Is the estate accessible for guests with disabilities?

Yes. While Gilford Castle is a listed historic property, steps have been taken to improve accessibility wherever possible. Key features include step-free or ramp access to key areas of the castle, an accessible guest suite with a walk-in shower and grab rails, and assistance with transport around the estate. Please contact us in advance to discuss your requirements.
Can I recharge my car?

Yes. A limited number of electric vehicle charging points are available on site. Please speak with a member of the team to arrange access.
Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the castle. Access details will be provided on arrival.
How do I contact Gilford Castle Estate?

You can reach us by telephone on +44 (0)28 3833 3800, by email at info@gilfordcastleestate.com, or by completing our enquiry form. We look forward to hearing from you.

Embark on your journey

Staying at Gilford Castle Estate is a unique, exclusive experience. Reach out through our contact form and request a bespoke consultation so we can understand your requirements and provide you with a tailored experience.

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