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Although referred to as a Castle, the residence at Ardgillan is a large country-styled house with castellated embellishments. Originally named “Prospect House”, the central section was built in 1738 by Robert Taylor, with the west and east wings added in the late 1800s.
Initially, the site was heavily wooded, the name Ardgillan being derived from the Irish “Ard Choill” meaning High Wood. It was cleared out by service soldiers and itinerant workers in return for one penny a day, sleeping accommodation, and one meal.
The house consists of two storeys over a basement which extends out under the lawns on the southern side of the building. When occupied, the ground and first floors were the living accommodations while the west and east wings were servants’ quarters and estate offices. The basement comprised of the service floor, the kitchen, and stores. The Castle has now been restored and the ground floor rooms and kitchens are open to visitors for guided tours.
The perfect romantic setting can really help set the tone for your wedding day. A wedding at Ardgillan is a chance to significantly enhance your special day – and the elegant Ardgillan Castle provides the perfect backdrop for couples who choose to have a civil wedding.
Ardgillan Castle and Demesne is Ireland’s hidden gem. Set in spectacular parklands overlooking the Irish Sea, as well as the castle, the demesne features a walled garden, rose garden, Potentilla garden and a magnificent herbaceous border all of which present a marvellous profusion of colour for photographs.
Our civil ceremonies take place in the opulent atmosphere of the castle Drawing Room. Filled with period features, paintings, artefacts and grand decoration, the beautifully-appointed Drawing Room is the most extravagant room in the castle with views out over the front elevation of the demesne and the Irish Sea beyond.
The bride and groom are seated at the focal point of the room with the superb backdrop of the conservatory providing a luxurious frame of foliage for the duration of the ceremony. Wedding guests are also afforded the use of the sumptuous entrance hall and the plush surrounds of the Dining Room for wedding photographs.
As well as its lavish and meticulously-groomed gardens, the spectacular surroundings at Ardgillan also provide unique photograph opportunities for couples to capture their wedding day for posterity and create memories that will last forever.
