Killeavy Castle Estate Blog

Killeavy Castle Estate Receives Service Excellence Award at the IGTOAs Gala Irish Golf Awards 2023

Killeavy Castle Estate has proudly received the "Best Customer Experience – Property" award at the 26th annual IGTOAs Conference and Gala Irish Golf Awards 2023.

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Sustainable Tourism Award at All-Ireland Sustainability Awards 2023

Killeavy Castle Estate is thrilled to have won the award for Sustainable Tourism & Hospitality Initiative of the Year at the prestigious All-Ireland Sustainability Awards 2023.

Planting the seeds at Killeavy Castle Estate lays the land for success for generations to come

There's nothing more I love than growing our own fruit and veg at home. So, to get a chat with Darragh Dooley, Killeavy Castle Estate's Executive Chef, was just a real pleasure as he anticipates a great growing season on the county Armagh estate farm.

Killeavy Castle Named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at AA Hospitality Awards 2023

Killeavy Castle Estate, a four-star luxury retreat nestled in the heart of County Armagh has been named AA Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2023

Weev Drives Green Growth to Killeavy Castle Estate

Electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure firm Weev has partnered with Killeavy Castle Estate to deliver its first fast-charging hub in the Newry area.

Ellie Paterson awarded Employee of Season for Summer 2023

Ellie is a very deserving award winner, assisting the front of house, event and sales departments she is an avid multitasker and finds no task too difficult.

Killeavy Castle Spa crowned 'Spa of the Year' at Ulster Tatler Awards 2023

This coveted accolade recognises the spa at Killeavy Castle Estate’s commitment to excellence, impeccable service, and unwavering dedication to providing guests with an unparalleled wellness experience.

Meet the Wine Maker Series with Sami Ghosn Massaya Winery, Lebanon

Join us for our inaugural Wine Maker's Dinner event on 11 September 2023. This event features a 7-course ‘Taste of the Estate’ menu that promises to tantalise your taste buds. This is an event that wine enthusiasts should not miss, as Lebanese Wine Maker Sami Ghosn, founder and owner of Massaya Winery, will pair each course with carefully selected Lebanese wines

Matthew Hynds, new General Manager at Killeavy Castle Estate

A native of Armagh, this appointment is a source of great pride for Matthew as he takes the helm of this remarkable venue in his home county. With a strong commitment to excellence and a passion for hospitality, Matthew is poised to lead Killeavy Castle Estate's award-winning team to continue delivering unforgettable experiences for our valued guests.

Double win for Killeavy Castle Estate management team at the Institute of Hospitality NI Awards for Professionalism

These awards, the longest-established in the Northern Irish hospitality industry, recognise the most talented individuals who have made a recognisable contribution to their place of work and to the industry in general.

From Sea to Plate: The Ultimate Fish Preparation Class at Killeavy Castle Estate

Calling all foodies, food lovers, and aspiring chefs! If you have a passion for food and cooking and are interested in developing your skills in the kitchen, a cookery class at Killeavy Castle Estate is the perfect place to learn new skills, meet new people, and indulge in fantastic food.

Mick Boyle, Owner of Killeavy Castle Estate, Honoured with Diaspora Award at Greater Newry Business Awards 2023

Presented to inspiring individuals with roots in the great Newry area for their contributions to the community in areas such as job creation, charity fundraising, or volunteering, this accolade acknowledges the remarkable work that Sydney-based businessman, Mick, has done in the restoration of Killeavy Castle, the development of Killeavy Castle Estate and tourism to South Armagh and his contribution to the local community.

Summer dining at Killeavy Castle Estate

Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at Killeavy Castle Estate, where dining options are as diverse as they are enticing. From the farm-fresh produce at our esteemed Farm Store to the casual elegance of our Bistro Bar and the fine dining in our award-winning Restaurant, we have something to satisfy every palate.

Meet Gareth Black, Estate Butcher

At Killeavy Castle Estate, I am the Estate Butcher and can be found in the Farm Store

Killeavy Castle named Tourism Business of the Year at the Greater Newry Business Awards

Killeavy Castle's victory in this category for a second year is a testament to its unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled hospitality and creating unforgettable memories for its guests. With its stunning castle backdrop, luxurious accommodations, and a team that is passionate about and committed to providing top-tier hospitality, the hotel has successfully established itself as a premier destination for both leisure and corporate travellers.

‘I hear you bought the castle!’ How one couple turned a crumbling pile into one of Ireland’s best-kept tourism secrets

For a winning auction bid of £1.19m, the Boyles of Sydney, Australia, were now the proud owners of a dilapidated estate, 16,000km away on the slopes of Slieve Gullion near Newry in south Armagh, complete with a Grade A-listed, 19th-century castle that hadn’t been inhabited for more than a decade.

Experience the magic of Killeavy Castle Estate with 10% Off Summer stays

Escape to Killeavy Castle Estate this summer and enjoy a rejuvenating break surrounded by breath-taking beauty in the heart of County Armagh’s stunning Ring of Gullion. For a limited time only, we are offering an exclusive 10% discount on all Summer packages.

Killeavy Castle Estate named Hotel of the Year for second consecutive year at LCN Awards

The prestigious award, sponsored by Bibendum Wine is recognition of the work done by the whole team to make the Killeavy Castle Estate offering the best that Northern Ireland has to offer. With hundreds of entries received for the LCN Awards, finalists faced stiff competition from some of Northern Ireland’s most highly regarded hotels, however, Killeavy Castle Estate emerged victorious, taking the top award in the fiercely competitive category at the awards event which took place on 9 June.

Discover Tranquility: A Nurturing Nature Retreat at Killeavy Castle Estate

For those seeking respite from the is the demands and busyness of our fast-paced world. With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, our estate offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a Nurturing Nature Retreat like no other.

Meet James Kenny, Duty Manager

I decided that it was the industry which I am more passionate about. It was quite a difficult decision to make and naturally, I was afraid to take the step out of university and begin to steer my energy towards a completely different career but I can confidently say that it's one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Killeavy Castle Estate Sweeps Three Awards at YesChef Awards 2023

Killeavy Castle Estate crowned Luxury Hotel Restaurant at the 2023 Yes Chef Awards

A Proud Addition to the Irish Independent's Fab 50 Places to Stay in Ireland

Killeavy Castle Estate named on the Irish Independent’s Fab 50 Places to Stay in Ireland feature, a prestigious list which highlights the best and brightest in Irish hospitality experiences. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to providing a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit our historic estate.vy Castle Estate in the Fab 50

Meet Ben Kordowski, Head Banqueting Chef

An interesting fact about me is that I am bilingual in English and Spanish. I lived abroad just outside the city of Malaga for ten years where not only did I learn the language but also the Mediterranean cuisine

Killeavy Castle Estate has the recipe for success at the Good Food Ireland Awards

Honoured to accept the Culinary Haven of the Year Special Award, Jason Foody, General Manager of Killeavy Castle Estate adds: “This is yet another accolade that recognises the incredible quality of our food and drink offering at Killeavy Castle Estate. Under our Executive Head Chef, Darragh Dooley’s stewardship, combined with the Estate’s ongoing commitment to both growing and sourcing local produce, the passion of our team is shining through.

Meet Eugene Rooney, Conference and Banqueting Manager

I am a part-time farmer; I’m also an award-winning baker and I’ve been in a few country music videos! I usually say, I am not your run of the mill manager!

Killeavy Castle Estate cleans up at the NIHF Housekeeping awards

This prestigious award from the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation recognises excellence in housekeeping, with judges looking for hotels that demonstrate a commitment to cleanliness, hygiene, and attention to detail. Killeavy Castle Estate's team of housekeeping staff were commended for their dedication to providing an exceptional housekeeping service for guests, ensuring that every room is well-maintained in line with the high standards of our venue.

Killeavy Castle Estate: Celebrating UNESCO Geopark Status for the Mourne, Gullion, and Strangford Area

With its rich history and breath-taking landscapes, this captivating region has recently achieved a remarkable milestone—the prestigious UNESCO Geopark status.

Meet Cecelia Holloway, Front Office Manager

I have worked in hospitality for over 20 years, and have been fortunate to have worked in some of the most prestigious hotels around the country.

Killeavy Castle Estate and Bolster Community continue charity partnership for 2023

A Newry-based charity and social enterprise, Bolster Community work alongside individuals, families, and the community, to support improved opportunity, and health and well-being for those who need it. The charity provides several of these services in the Slieve Gullion region in which Killeavy Castle Estate is located, giving the partnership great synergy and reflecting the values of Killeavy Castle Estate which place a huge emphasis on supporting local.

Connect with nature this Spring at Killeavy Castle Estate

This Spring, get away from it all with an unforgettable break at Killeavy Castle Estate. The centrepiece of 365 acres of mixed farm and woodland in the heart of County Armagh’s stunning Ring of Gullion, Killeavy Castle Estate is the ideal place to retreat, relax and reconnect with nature. Located just one hour from Dublin and 10 minutes outside Newry City, a break at Killeavy Castle Estate offers guests luxury accommodation to suit every taste…and so much more.

2023 Wedding Showcase at Killeavy Castle Estate

Join us and experience what Killeavy Castle Estate and our preferred suppliers have to offer to create your perfect Wedding Day. Our Events Team shall be available throughout the day to answer any enquiries you may have on Sunday 5 March from 12noon to 5:00pm

Take time to rejuvenate at Killeavy Castle Estate

Relax your body and mind with a luxurious stay at Killeavy Castle Estate. One of Ireland’s most unique getaway locations, Killeavy Castle Estate provides the perfect setting for guests to truly switch off and get closer to what’s important.

Meet Wendy Taylor, Spa Reflexologist

As a reflexologist for Killeavy Castle, my job entails an initial consultation with any new client (usually 15 minutes long) to gather medical, health and lifestyle information so that I can tailor a specific treatment plan to each client. Following this, each treatment will last up to 45 minutes and will involve the client removing their footwear and socks/tights, then lying on the treatment couch. The treatment involves me applying pressure to various points on the feet which correspond with areas of the body and organs, based on Zone Therapy (using 'mapped' points on the feet), specifically using my thumbs, fingers and hands. This treatment aims to alleviate stress and holistically treat the 'whole person', creating a state of balance and relaxation.

Bolster Community Partners with Killeavy Castle Estate and creates unique scent of 'Gullion Oaks'

Killeavy Castle Estate are delighted to announce that we have recently partnered with Boster Community to help them create their very own fragrance product, proudly named ‘Gullion Oaks’.

UNESCO Global Geopark Status Within Reach

Newry, Mourne and Down's UNESCO Global Geopark bid is within reach. The Global Geopark Council has approved the final submission for the area; for it to be ratified at the UNESCO Executive Board meeting in Paris in May 2023.

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Best of the Best in the Intimate Wedding Venue of the Year

The Estate was thrilled to have received one of the top awards, taking the title of the ‘Best of the Best’ in the Intimate Wedding Venue of the Year category at the event, overcoming stiff competition in the category.

Collaborative Partnership for Slieve Gullion Woodland

Over 200 acres of native woodland on the slopes of Slieve Gullion, South Armagh, will be regenerated and planted following the collaborative partnership agreed recently between Killeavy Castle Estate and the Forest Service of Northern Ireland. This agreement facilitates the development of public walking paths in the area in co-operation with Newry Mourne & Down District Council and woodland planting and regeneration in consultation with the Woodland Trust.

Killeavy Castle Estate sweeps the board with award wins and AA Rosettes

In just three short years, Killeavy Castle Estate has won multiple awards including a spate of industry award wins in recent weeks. This latest recognition from the AA Awards is a testament to the strength of the team and the quality that Killeavy Caste Estate strives to deliver for every guest.

Give the gift of an experience at Killeavy Castle Estate

From luxury accommodation to a special meal or an afternoon of serenity in our spa, Killeavy Castle Estate has a gift voucher for everyone making it the ideal gift for family, friends and loved ones this Christmas.

Meet Seidy Hynds, Events Manager

I meet with our guests at the beginning of their journey and give them a full tour of our Estate, showing them all we have to offer and giving them the wonderful history of Killeavy Castle Estate. I work with our guests right through to the day of their event, making sure that every step is planned to ensure their time spent with us is exceptional. I then this pass over to our operations team to run the event on the day. Our guest journey does not end after their visit to us, and maintaining a long-lasting connection is important to ensure we meet their future event needs.

Giant award wins for Killeavy Castle Estate and owner at the TourismNI Giant Spirit Awards

We are proud to announce that both Killeavy Castle Estate and our owner, Mick Boyle, have been recognised for our contribution to tourism in Northern Ireland at the inaugural Tourism NI Giant Spirit Awards which took place in early October.

Meetings and Events with a difference, at Killeavy Castle Estate

It is the setting of Killeavy Castle Estate that sets it apart from other venues, providing a calm space to make strategic decisions, a break from the norm that will rejuvenate your creativity and a surrounding landscape that provides the opportunity to take part in a range of unique activities that promote cohesion within teams.

Meet Matthew Hynds, General Manager

My role requires me to be heavily involved in all aspects of the Estate, one day I could be running a wedding, and the next I could be helping in the Walled Garden Café, Bistro or Restaurant, we pride ourselves in customer care and this comes from the owners, through the managers to the staff. I would never ask someone to do a job I wouldn’t do myself and have a very hands-on approach to my job.

Killeavy Castle Estate wins 'Hotel of the Year' at the LCN Awards 2022

Killeavy Castle Estate has been named Hotel of the Year (Up to 75 rooms) at the LCN Awards 2022, cementing its place as one of Northern Ireland’s top hotel destinations. With hundreds of entries in a record-breaking year for the LCN Awards, finalists faced stiff competition from some of Northern Ireland’s most highly regarded hotels, however, Killeavy Castle Estate emerged victorious, taking the top award in the fiercely competitive category at the awards event which took place in late September.

Get closer to what’s important this Autumn at Killeavy Castle Estate

Guests availing of our Autumnal Midweek Break will enjoy a warm welcome and three-course dinner in our Bistro Bar with scenic views of the grounds, a traditional breakfast each morning and use of our Spa thermal facilities during their stay at the Estate.

Planting for a better future

The Killeavy Castle Estate Landscape Restoration Project, one of Northern Ireland's most ambitious reforestation efforts, has begun replanting over 27,000 native broadleaf trees, Scots pines, and shrubs like hazel and hawthorn. These plantings will take place this winter with the help of the Woodland Trust and is a major milestone for the Estate which plans to plant 50,000 trees on the slopes of Slieve Gullion over the next 10 years.

Meet Dario Percic, Head Chef

Meet Dario Percic our Head Chef who ensures the efficient day to day running of the Restaurant at Killeavy Castle Estate.

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Best Tourism and Hospitality Team

The team at Killeavy Castle Estate has received the award for 'Best Tourism & Hospitality Team' at the Newry Chamber Employee & Team Awards 2022. The awards, which took place in September, saw the very best employees and teams from the business community across the Greater Newry Area recognised at a glittering awards ceremony where 21 individuals and organisations celebrated their greatest assets – their people.

Killeavy Castle Estate Triumphs on Global and Local Stage

Killeavy Castle Estate has been named winner of the Luxury Castle Hotel (Europe) Award at the prestigious World Luxury Awards 2021, which took place in Mauritius in October.

Killeavy Castle Estate plants seeds for growth and sustainability with £500,000 investment

Officially unveiled by the owners of Killeavy Castle Estate, Sydney-based businessman Mick Boyle and his wife Robin, Killeavy Castle Estate has just launched an Estate Farm Store and Estate Gardens following a further £500,000 investment. Originally from South Armagh, Mick Boyle and Robin acquired Killeavy Castle in 2013, and over the past nine years have restored the 186-year Killeavy Castle, creating a venue that’s now regarded as one of the premier destination hotels in Ireland.

Killeavy Castle Estate invests in a continued sustainable future.

Our Walking, Riding and Fine Dining Experience will be enhanced over the coming months with the establishment of an additional vegetable garden and farm store. Sowing, tending, picking then preparing the garden produce, along with curing displays of our Estate Longhorn beef and Cheviot lamb will allow our visitors to embrace our farm to fork ethos firsthand. Works will be completed by March 2022.

Killeavy Castle Estate named 4-Star Hotel and Spa of the Year

Killeavy Castle Estate in County Armagh, has been crowned 4-Star Hotel and Spa of the Year at the Northern Ireland Prestige Awards, 2021. The Prestige Awards recognise and reward excellence in customer experience, facilities and outstanding services offered by independent businesses within the hospitality sector.

From Slieve Gullion to Down Under and back again, Killeavy Castle.

For Mick Boyle, raised in Australia, when the castle came up for sale, there was an opportunity to reinvest and connect more closely with his deep roots to the area. Indeed, Mick’s mother, Pauline Rice was a proud, skilful, and decorated Killeavy Camog whose picture can still be seen beside the bar in the Killeavy social club today. Though Mick grew up and resides in Australia there was always a tether back to Slieve Gullion and when the opportunity came to renovate Killeavy Castle it must have felt like a calling home.

Meet Janice Lacey, Accommodation Manager

The people I work with are fantastic, so professional. The buildings of both the Castle and the Hotel are amazing and the setting is just stunningly beautiful. The fact it is a five-minute drive from home, means I am able to work in a job that I love and pick up my youngest daughter from Primary School at 3pm which is the icing on the cake! Lol

Killeavy wins Boutique Hotel of the Year at recent Awards

Killeavy Castle Estate has been awarded Boutique Hotel of the Year at the 30th anniversary of the Golfers Guide to Ireland Awards, fighting off fierce competition to pick up the prestigious award at the recent virtual ceremony, due to the current restrictions around Covid-19.

Explore the East Coast of Ireland from the luxurious Killeavy Castle Estate

Closer to home, in County Armagh, where Killeavy Castle Estate is situated, guests can explore the Cathedral City of Armagh or visit the Armagh Orchards, the 250-year-old Robinson Library with its display of rare books or the Armagh Planetarium. Game of Thrones fans can visit the first-ever Game of Thrones tour opened in the world at the Linen Mill Studios, Banbridge, where fans will be treated to a set tour of all things surrounding the series. For the more adventurous, a short drive east takes you to County Down where you can climb the Mountains of Mourne and master Slieve Donard or visit St. Patrick’s grave and Visitor Centre in Downpatrick.

Meet Brighdin Thornton, Restaurant Waitress

Meet Brighdin Thornton from Jonesborough who has been working as a waitress in the Restaurant at Killeavy Castle Estate for 2 years.

Killeavy Castle Estate named Ireland’s Castle Hotel of the Year

Killeavy Castle Estate in County Armagh has been crowned Ireland’s Castle Hotel of the Year at the Irish Hotel Awards, 2021 for the second consecutive year.

Meet Susan Quinn, Breakfast Supervisor

I was fortunate to join the Killeavy team in the early stages of opening and this allowed me to gather great experience and be a part of something new and exciting that this area hasn't seen before. I got to work in the bar, the fine dining restaurant and as part of the banqueting team for our first ever wedding, it was amazing to be part of our Killeavy family then as much as it is today.

Killeavy Castle Estate - Castle Hotel of the Year 2020

Killeavy Castle Estate named Castle Hotel of the Year by the Irish Hotel Awards. This comes at the same time as the hotel celebrates its first anniversary.

Killeavy Castle Estate 2022 charitable partnership with local community group

The Board and team at Bolster Community are delighted to announce a new Charity Partnership with the world leading resort Killeavy Castle Estate. This is a very special partnership for Bolster Community after such a difficult time during the pandemic when fundraising opportunities have been at an all-time low. Bolster Community is a charity and social enterprise based in the heart of Newry that offers practical support for individuals and families, helping them to get through and get ahead.

Killeavy King of the Castle at NI Hotel Awards

Killeavy Castle Estate, County Armagh, brought home the silverware at the Northern Ireland Hotel Awards lifting five awards on the evening including Romantic Getaway of the Year and Hotel Restaurant of the Year. The Estate was also highly commended in the 4 Star Hotel of the Year category. Three staff members were also crowned winners for their respective roles including; Darragh Dooley, Head Chef of the Year, John Mathews, Deputy General Manager of the Year, and Seamus Morgan, Bar Manager of the Year. The Estate, which was recently awarded its four-star rating from Tourism NI, fought off fierce competition to pick up the prestigious awards at a gala ceremony in Belfast last night. The NI Hotel Awards recognise excellence in the hospitality industry with a panel of judges assessing customer experience, outstanding team members, facilities and services. Killeavy Castle Estate opened just seven months ago in County Armagh on the Eastern base of Slieve Gullion. The Grade A listed building, derelict for over a decade, was transformed following a £12million investment. The 45-bed boutique, luxury hotel, was shortlisted in eleven categories at the awards receiving a total number of five top awards and high commended in six categories. Jason Foody, General Manager of Killeavy Castle Estate, said; “We are delighted to have been awarded five NI Hotel Awards at the gala in Belfast acknowledging our commitment to exceptional customer service, our stunning facilities, but most of all our people. We are incredibly proud of our team who strive for the best results possible in every area of the Estate and it was great to see Darragh, John and Seamus rewarded for their outstanding contribution. “It is particularly special for us to have been awarded Romantic Getaway of the Year. Our goal is to provide a stunning setting for couples to get closer to what is important - be that the beautiful surroundings, or themselves. We take great pride in our provenance and heritage, especially when it comes to our food which is all grown on the estate or locally sourced, so we are thrilled to be named Hotel Restaurant of the Year.” David Perry, Event Director of the 2019 Northern Ireland Hotel Awards, added: "It was fantastic to have the Killeavy Castle Estate team at the Northern Ireland Hotel Awards and a huge congratulations for picking up so many awards. It's great to celebrate the success of the Killeavy team who are making a massive impact in the hospitality sector - having only been open a few months!"

Sustainability at the heart of Killeavy Castle Estate

At Killeavy Castle Estate we are passionate about creating a legacy of sustainability and environmental consciousness. A particular focus for our business is the use of local produce and suppliers. When you enjoy a meal in our award-winning restaurant, the food on your plate will have been harvested from the walled garden on the Estate, farmed on the land or locally sourced.

Meet Katie Brandon, Spa Treatment Manager

Meet Katie Brandon our Spa Treatment Manager who ensures the efficient day to day running of treatments by all Spa Therapists at Killeavy Castle Estate.

Killeavy makes Indo Fab 50!

Killeavy makes Indo Fab 50! Killeavy Castle Estate has placed in the Irish Independent’s Best Places to Stay 2020. Conducted by Pól Ó Conghaile, Nicola Brady and Thomas Breathnach, who travelled across Ireland visiting a host of hotels, B&Bs, country houses and campsites, mapped trends before curating their Fab 50 finalists.

Nurturing Nature Retreat with Ann from Xhale

Rest, reconnect and re-energise during this unique Nurturing Nature retreat.

Killeavy Castle Goes Green

Killeavy Castle in County Armagh is going green for St Patrick’s Day in both a nod to its Irish heritage as well as the business’ environmental strategy. The Castle will be illuminated green for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations on Tuesday 17th March.

Killeavy Castle Achieves 4 Star Grading From Tourism NI

Congratulations to our member, Killeavy Castle Estate who have achieved a 4 Star Grading from Tourism NI. Recently awarded the National Winner Newcomer of the Year 2020 at the Georgina Campbell Irish Food and Hospitality Awards, the luxury four-star boutique hotel, spa and wellness centre, located at the foot of Slieve Gullion in Co. Armagh, opened to the public in April 2020, following a £12m investment.

A Tale of Two Castles

We recently welcomed Stephen O’Callaghan and Rachael Crilly to tie the knot at Killeavy Castle. The couple enjoyed a magical start to married life after Stephen proposed to Rachael by one castle in Disneyland Paris and then celebrated his wedding day in the castle on Killeavy Estate. Rachael and Stephen enjoyed an idyllic wedding day at Killeavy surrounded by family and friends with the historic 19th century Castle as a striking backdrop to their wedding photos.

Killeavy Crowned Georgina Campbell’s ‘Newcomer Of The Year’

Killeavy Castle Estate has been crowned ‘Newcomer Of The Year’ at the Georgina Campbell Awards held in September at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dublin. Celebrating 21 years in their current incarnation, the Georgina Campbell Awards recognise and honour Ireland’s standard-bearers in food and hospitality. The rigorous programme of anonymous assessment visits are a year-round process and winners are nominated solely by an independent assessment team.

Taste the Island comes to Killeavy Castle Estate

The newly opened Killeavy Castle Estate is hosting a Food Festival in celebration of all things local in conjunction with Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th September from 11am to 5pm. Taste the Island is coming to Killeavy Castle Estate with a weekend of local food, drink music, family entertainment, chef masterclasses, producer stories, sale of produce and much more all in the walled garden of Killeavy Castle Estate.

Official opening of Killeavy Castle Estate

South Armagh couple return for grand opening of Killeavy Castle Estate. The 4-star luxury Killeavy Castle Estate has officially opened. After leaving Killeavy in South Armagh over 50 years ago to settle in Australia, Michael and Pauline Boyle have returned home this month to cut the ribbon at the official opening ceremony of the newly developed Killeavy Castle Estate. The once derelict Estate bought by their son Mick and his wife Robin in 2013 has undergone a comprehensive restoration and building programme creating a world class hospitality destination.

Killeavy Castle Estate Restaurant Manager, James Kenny, reaches the final of 2025 Gold Service Scholarship

His achievement underscores James’ outstanding talent, dedication, and passion for delivering exceptional service.

The Descendants of Original Castle Owners 'Come Home'

Descendants of the Foxall family - the original owners of Killeavy Castle - arrived at the newly refurbished premises last week to pay respect to their spectacular heritage. Formerly known as Killeavy Lodge, it was the residence of the Foxall family, whose vault is situated nearby, at St Luke’s parish Church. In 1836, Powell Foxall, a banker from Newry, commissioned an architect to enlarge his modest farmhouse. It was subsequently transformed into the small Gothic castle existing today. In the late 17th century the Bell family took ownership of the castle and estate until the death of Maureen Bell in 2000.

King of the Castle - Armagh native returns to open new hotel, creating 85 jobs - Killeavy Castle’s 45-bed hotel opens doors on Easter Monday

Killeavy Castle, nestled in the woodland at the foot of Slieve Gullion, is set to unveil its newly refurbished premises following a £12 million investment with support from First Trust Bank. The Grade 1 listed building, derelict for over a decade, has been given a new lease of life after being bought by Armagh native Mick Boyle and his wife Robin, for £1.2 million in 2013. The Castle will create 85 new jobs for the local area from part-time to full-time staff under the management of new General Manager, Jason Foody.

Elevate Your Meeting and Events Experience at Killeavy Castle Estate

From small meetings to major conferences and private events, Killeavy Castle Estate offers the ideal venue for functions of all kinds. Centred around a fully restored 19th-century Castle, Killeavy Castle Estate combines a unique location with excellent customer service, guaranteed to impress your guests.

Killeavy Castle Estate Receives Service Excellence Award at the IGTOAs Gala Irish Golf Awards 2023

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Sustainable Tourism Award at All-Ireland Sustainability Awards 2023

Planting the seeds at Killeavy Castle Estate lays the land for success for generations to come

Killeavy Castle Named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at AA Hospitality Awards 2023

Weev Drives Green Growth to Killeavy Castle Estate

Ellie Paterson awarded Employee of Season for Summer 2023

Killeavy Castle Spa crowned 'Spa of the Year' at Ulster Tatler Awards 2023

Meet the Wine Maker Series with Sami Ghosn Massaya Winery, Lebanon

Matthew Hynds, new General Manager at Killeavy Castle Estate

Double win for Killeavy Castle Estate management team at the Institute of Hospitality NI Awards for Professionalism

From Sea to Plate: The Ultimate Fish Preparation Class at Killeavy Castle Estate

Mick Boyle, Owner of Killeavy Castle Estate, Honoured with Diaspora Award at Greater Newry Business Awards 2023

Summer dining at Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Gareth Black, Estate Butcher

Killeavy Castle named Tourism Business of the Year at the Greater Newry Business Awards

‘I hear you bought the castle!’ How one couple turned a crumbling pile into one of Ireland’s best-kept tourism secrets

Experience the magic of Killeavy Castle Estate with 10% Off Summer stays

Killeavy Castle Estate named Hotel of the Year for second consecutive year at LCN Awards

Discover Tranquility: A Nurturing Nature Retreat at Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet James Kenny, Duty Manager

Killeavy Castle Estate Sweeps Three Awards at YesChef Awards 2023

A Proud Addition to the Irish Independent's Fab 50 Places to Stay in Ireland

Meet Ben Kordowski, Head Banqueting Chef

Killeavy Castle Estate has the recipe for success at the Good Food Ireland Awards

Meet Eugene Rooney, Conference and Banqueting Manager

Killeavy Castle Estate cleans up at the NIHF Housekeeping awards

Killeavy Castle Estate: Celebrating UNESCO Geopark Status for the Mourne, Gullion, and Strangford Area

Meet Cecelia Holloway, Front Office Manager

Killeavy Castle Estate and Bolster Community continue charity partnership for 2023

Connect with nature this Spring at Killeavy Castle Estate

2023 Wedding Showcase at Killeavy Castle Estate

Take time to rejuvenate at Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Wendy Taylor, Spa Reflexologist

Bolster Community Partners with Killeavy Castle Estate and creates unique scent of 'Gullion Oaks'

UNESCO Global Geopark Status Within Reach

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Best of the Best in the Intimate Wedding Venue of the Year

Collaborative Partnership for Slieve Gullion Woodland

Killeavy Castle Estate sweeps the board with award wins and AA Rosettes

Give the gift of an experience at Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Seidy Hynds, Events Manager

Giant award wins for Killeavy Castle Estate and owner at the TourismNI Giant Spirit Awards

Meetings and Events with a difference, at Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Matthew Hynds, General Manager

Killeavy Castle Estate wins 'Hotel of the Year' at the LCN Awards 2022

Get closer to what’s important this Autumn at Killeavy Castle Estate

Planting for a better future

Meet Dario Percic, Head Chef

Killeavy Castle Estate wins Best Tourism and Hospitality Team

Killeavy Castle Estate Triumphs on Global and Local Stage

Killeavy Castle Estate plants seeds for growth and sustainability with £500,000 investment

Killeavy Castle Estate invests in a continued sustainable future.

Killeavy Castle Estate named 4-Star Hotel and Spa of the Year

From Slieve Gullion to Down Under and back again, Killeavy Castle.

Meet Janice Lacey, Accommodation Manager

Killeavy wins Boutique Hotel of the Year at recent Awards

Explore the East Coast of Ireland from the luxurious Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Brighdin Thornton, Restaurant Waitress

Killeavy Castle Estate named Ireland’s Castle Hotel of the Year

Meet Susan Quinn, Breakfast Supervisor

Killeavy Castle Estate - Castle Hotel of the Year 2020

Killeavy Castle Estate 2022 charitable partnership with local community group

Killeavy King of the Castle at NI Hotel Awards

Sustainability at the heart of Killeavy Castle Estate

Meet Katie Brandon, Spa Treatment Manager

Killeavy makes Indo Fab 50!

Nurturing Nature Retreat with Ann from Xhale

Killeavy Castle Goes Green

Killeavy Castle Achieves 4 Star Grading From Tourism NI

A Tale of Two Castles

Killeavy Crowned Georgina Campbell’s ‘Newcomer Of The Year’

Taste the Island comes to Killeavy Castle Estate

Official opening of Killeavy Castle Estate

Killeavy Castle Estate Restaurant Manager, James Kenny, reaches the final of 2025 Gold Service Scholarship

The Descendants of Original Castle Owners 'Come Home'

King of the Castle - Armagh native returns to open new hotel, creating 85 jobs - Killeavy Castle’s 45-bed hotel opens doors on Easter Monday

Elevate Your Meeting and Events Experience at Killeavy Castle Estate

Hotel

Castle and Residences