Comfort and splendour
Gilford Castle Estate
A haven of
timeless elegance
Escape to Ireland and the rolling patchwork countryside of County Down. Find yourself strolling through a serene estate, where modernity’s currents ebb, and the past and the present coincide. Here, the world grows more expansive, and your place in it more profound. Fill your days with tranquility, indulgence, or adventure—the choice is yours. Drift under ancient boughs as the gentle waters of the River Bann carry your boat. Engage in a meandering conversation while casting a fly line with friends. Venture out on foot to explore winding trails and wooded dells.
Prefer to linger indoors? Challenge a friend to chess. Savour a quiet moment over a rare book. Or indulge in a private whiskey tasting. At Gilford Castle, every day is an invitation to explore, relax, and delight in a quieter life and the finer things.
Guided Tour
Step inside Gilford Castle
Gilford Castle is a beautifully restored Victorian Scottish Baronial-style mansion set in 207 acres of bucolic parkland and mature woodlands. It exudes timeless elegance, characterised by its grand, multi-gabled facade, intricate stonework, and stately turrets. As you approach the estate via a sweeping drive, you enter a world of seclusion and gentle grandeur. An opulent entrance hall, appointed with period furniture, welcomes you to your refuge of heritage and luxury. The castle’s interiors feature beautifully conserved period details—high ceilings embellished with filigreed plasterwork, opulent fittings, and idiosyncratic vestiges of a bygone era of aristocratic splendour.
During your stay, the entire estate is yours to enjoy. Let’s explore some of your rooms.
01
Entrance Hallway
Gilford Castle’s reception hall, featuring intricate detailing and a striking ceiling, creates a luxurious and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting the estate’s storied past and refined tastes.
02
Drawing Room
The drawing room reflects the opulence and eclectic tastes of the castle’s past owners, the Dicksons and the Wrights, through its ornate décor and blend of Western and Eastern influences.
03
Library
Gilford Castle’s library embodies a blend of historical grandeur and intimate refinement, with its decor and heraldic touches reflecting the estate’s legacy.
04
Dining Room
The dining room at Gilford Castle combines stately elegance and personal charm, blending rich decor with modern touches that reflect the castle’s heritage and the unique character of its last custodian.
05
Gentleman’s Lounge
Sophisticated and welcoming, the Gentleman’s Lounge at Gilford Castle features a striking mural and elegant decor that weave the estate’s heritage into a broader narrative of Ulster’s historic strongholds and stately homes.
06
Bedrooms
The bedrooms at Gilford Castle capture the estate’s essence, with opulent canopies, antique decor, and eclectic details that evoke timeless beauty, comfort, and a connection to its storied past.
Activities
Amusements and diversions
Gilford Castle is richly appointed for your entertainment, cultural pursuits, and hobbies.
Music
An ideal space for private recitals, the Music Room combines refined decor with superb acoustics, creating a serene atmosphere for both listening and performing.
Art
The castle’s studio is a peaceful, well-equipped space that nurtures creativity, encouraging artists to draw inspiration from the surrounding landscapes.
Dining
Host a grand banquet or enjoy an intimate dinner—the dining room is a setting of timeless elegance for refined, locally sourced cuisine.
Games
Sample our collection of games that span the globe and the ages, including unusual curiosities that harken back to Victorian parlours.
Whisky tasting
Contemplate or converse over a glass of fine whisky. Choose from our curated selection, settle into an armchair, and listen to the crackling fire.
Your Hosts
Robert and
Adrienne Moffett
We are Robert and Adrienne Moffett, the owners of Gilford Castle and your hosts during your stay. Together with leading artisans, craftspeople, and conservators, we have worked tirelessly to restore Gilford Castle, breathing new life into its unique character while creating a sumptuously appointed home-away-from-home for discerning travellers. We hope you’ll share the warmth and care we feel for this special place and delight in its beauty, history, and hospitality.
Embark on your journey
Contact
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.
