Lismore Castle is a unique experience.  Sophisticated yet relaxed, the Castle is an exceptional Irish destination.  Situated in the heart of West Waterford, it is the Irish home of the Duke of Devonshire and is available when the Duke and his family are not in residence. Guests enjoy exclusive use of the Castle and private garden for the duration of their stay. The Duke’s personal butler and his team look after all guests and offer the same level of personal attention and service enjoyed by the Duke and his family. The Castle can accommodate up to 23 people in 12 rooms and offers comfort, ambience and service unequalled anywhere else in Ireland. For larger gatherings, the wonderful gothic banqueting hall can host up to 80 guests for dinner. 

Lismore is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of beautiful surrounds.  Equally it provides the perfect base for those who like adventure. Horse-riding, hill-walking in the nearby beautiful Knockmealdown Mountains, a serious round of golf on some of Ireland’s leading courses, dining out in the Michelin-star restaurant at the Cliff House Hotel in the beautiful seaside village of Ardmore – just some of the excellent amenities within easy reach of the Castle.

Lismore Castle boasts a superb concierge service to help guests plan and arrange every aspect of their trip from helicopter transfers, to private yoga classes as well as facilities including; a fully-stocked bar; a Billiards & Games room; boule pitch, table tennis and a private study with private telephone lines and high speed internet access. Outdoors, Outdoors, guests can enjoy the privacy of The Relic (The Duke’s recently restored private garden); guided tours of the extensive lovingly maintained Upper and Lower gardens by the head gardener; tennis on a hard court; fishing, golf and magnificent walks on the Estate.

Fishing at Lismore – The Best in Ireland
The River Blackwater has for many years been regarded as the most prolific salmon rivers in Ireland. Year after year eager salmon fishermen return to the Blackwater to enjoy the stunning scenery and the rivers continued success in producing annual Salmon runs unrivalled by anywhere else in Ireland. During your stay at Lismore you will be able to enjoy this thrilling sport and have exclusive access to the Castle water beat, which meanders through the castle grounds. During your day on the river you will be served lunch in the form of a delicious hamper carefully prepared by Lismore’s award winning chef. When the day finally draws to a close you will return to the castle to unwind and enjoy Lismore’s endless luxuries, before being served an evening banquet in the magnificent dining room.

In May, Careysville, another of Lismore estates’ fantastic fishing beats, is available for castle guests. This stretch or river is widely reputed as one of Ireland’s top salmon fisheries, and is within a short distance of the castle. Accompanying you on the river will be one of Careysville’s experienced ghillies, who will be on hand to improve your casting technique and give you the best possible chance of hooking what many consider to be the most exciting game fish of all.

Opera in the stable yard
In June, Ireland's premiere opera company will be coming to Lismore, ‘Opera Ireland presents CARMEN’.  This open air presentation is the first time this prestigious company has visited Lismore and promises to be a spectacular event set against the spectacular backdrop of the castle. Castle guests will enjoy the best seats as well as VIP invitations to a post show reception with the artists. 

Art at Lismore

For those who have an interest in art, Lismore offers a truly unforgettable experience. The castle houses a rich and varied private art collection and during your stay you will encounter works by artists such as Richard Long, Paul Henry, Lucien Freud, Joshua Reynolds, Anthony Van Dyck and Franz West as well as some of the finest examples of domestic Pugin furniture still in private hands.

The West Wing of Lismore Castle has been converted in to a contemporary art gallery, hosting one major international exhibition every year between April to the end of September. For 2010, one of Ireland's leading artists, Gerard Byrne will have a solo exhibition. During your time at Lismore you will be given a private tour of the Gallery and the Devonshire art collection by the gallery Director.
For those who want that little bit extra, a visit to any of Southern Ireland’s premier galleries, such as Crawford & Glucksman in Cork or the Hunt Museum in Limerick, can easily be arranged.

Quintessentially Escape has access to this wonderful Irish paradise. During your stay at Lismore, you will be truly inspired by the fantastic scenery and unrivalled freedom. Lismore is the perfect place to indulge in all of your wildest dreams. Nowhere else in Ireland offers the same level of luxury, exclusivity and unrivalled beauty.