Slane Castle

 Overlooking the River Boyne, just a few kilometres upstream from Newgrange and the site of the famous Battle of the Boyne, Slane Castle in its existing form was constructed under the direction of William Burton Conyngham, together with his nephew the 1st Marquess Conyngham. The reconstruction dates back to 1785 and is principally the work of James Gandon, James Wyatt and Francis Johnston. Francis Johnston was also the architect responsible for the gothic gates on the Mill Hill, located to the east of the castle.

One of the most exciting historic buildings on the island Slane Castle hosts many high profile events, from its famous Summer Concerts with a capacity of 80,000 people, to intimate events inside the Castle. With the backdrop of the River Boyne and the surrounding parkland of the Estate, it is the perfect venue to accommodate a wide range of events in unique surroundings.

Autumn/Winter at Slane Castle Estate

The whirlwind summer is over and Slane Castle Estate is settling down for the autumn and winter.

SLANE CASTLE ESTATE OPENING HOURS The Estate is closed to the public until springtime except for tours, events and private bookings.

CASTLE TOURS Regular Castle tours are paused for autumn and winter. They will recommence in spring. Mini tours are included in the Afternoon Tea and Tour experience on selected dates. Private guided tours are available all year round and need to be booked in advance. To enquire, contact the Castle directly on events@slanecastle.ie.

AFTERNOON TEA AND MINI TOUR Our Afternoon Tea and Mini Tour experience takes place on Sunday 12th and Sunday 19th November (1pm and 3pm). Combining a short, guided tour with the grand tradition of afternoon tea, this is a delightful way to experience the Castle in a very personal fashion. It begins in the impressive main hallway with fine Doric columns, impressive plasterwork and the Conyngham family coat of arms. Enjoy a glass of Prosecco as you take your seat in the remarkable circular King George IV Ballroom. Afternoon tea is presented on elegant, tiered cake stands and is a perfect balance of savoury and sweet treats. Afterwards our personable tour guide will give an enthralling insight into Slane Castle and its fascinating history intertwined with that of the Conyngham family who have lived here since 1703. The Castle is equally famous for 40 years of star-studded rock concerts. Book online at www.slanecastle.ie/visit/dine/afternoon-tea/. For groups or private afternoon teas, please email events@slanecastle.ie.
 

NEW WINTER NIGHTS AT SLANE CASTLE A series of special dining events take place at the Castle during November and December. It’s a celebration of Rock Farm organic and local food beginning in Browne’s Bar with a signature Boyne Valley Sharing Board accompanied by a special Slane Whiskey Cocktail. The remaining four courses are served in the Gandon Room Restaurant. The cost is €75 per person and booking is online. Dietary requirements must be flagged in advance.

· Friday 17th and Saturday 18th November

· Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December

Listen to some wonderful audio on Slane Castle.

Slane Estate Walking Trail

Stroll past mature woodlands where birds add their song to the sound that the estate is most famous for, the Slane Festival. International rock legends have entertained millions of fans against the backdrop of Slane Castle since 1981. Follow in their footsteps on the Concert Field Walk which starts at the entrance to the Castle courtyard.

More details including opening times and fees, and map.

Discover Slane Irish Whiskey

Slane Irish Whiskey is a world-class working Distillery and state of the art visitor centre. It is located opposite the Castle Courtyard, in a restored 18th century stable yard. Slane Distillery is a joint venture between the Conyngham family of Slane Castle and the Brown-Forman Corporation of Kentucky, USA, owners of the Jack Daniel’s brand. Alex Conyngham, current Earl of Mount Charles and son of Lord Henry, is Managing Director and co-founder.

The visitor centre is beautifully designed in complete sympathy with the existing ancient building. For example, in the Stalls Bar, the original horse stalls remain intact, with tables neatly slotted into each one. On the tour visitors will experience the reality of a modern, working distillery – micro malting, mash house, brew house, still house, cooperage and maturation warehouse. Tastings of the signature triple-casked Slane Irish Whiskey are also included. These take place in one of the two purpose built tasting rooms.

Slane Distillery celebrates 40 years of rock ‘n’ roll heritage at Slane Castle in the Whiskey Lounge with records from many of the iconic bands who played Slane. A visit to the luxury gift shop completes the visit.

The Distillery is open for guided tours. An enticing cocktail menu is on offer in the courtyard or the Stalls Bar. The gift shop with tasteful clothing, souvenirs, music memorabilia and Slane Whiskey is also open. See www.slaneirishwhiskey.com for up-to-date information