Stay & Play
Killeavy Castle Estate
by Cherie DeLory
June 5, 2025
Killeavy Castle Estate is in “Orchard County,” aka County Armagh, an hour’s drive from both Dublin and Belfast airports, and a 10-minute drive from Newry Railway Station. Ensconced in the mythical Irish countryside, this pristine remote estate covers 365 acres of fertile farm and woodlands, set amidst the Mourne Mountains and Slieve Gullion, the highest point in the county, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Garnering a reputation as Northern Ireland’s hidden gem, it’s a place where the out-of-towners rub shoulders with the locals who have numerous reasons to return, including the farm fresh cuisine, spa and pastoral ambiance.
Killeavy Castle is a Grade A listed historical building circa 1836 that was rebuilt from the original lodge farmhouse. It is used for private events and weddings. The new hotel is a few minutes’ walk from the castle. Opened in 2019, the 45-room main hotel is part of the estate’s former Mill and Coach House, and has deservedly received awards for its sustainable restaurant, spa and hotel accommodation.
Killeavy means “church on the mountain”. While you’re berry picking or rambling along velvety moss-covered rock paths, look for the stone ruins of a church during your woodlands adventure.
The estate’s motto is “Get closer to what’s important.” Whether it’s a nature hike sporting an Irish Aran wool sweater and wellies, a swim in the heated hydrotherapy pool, or simply embracing the quiet luxury of sleep, Killeavy is a rejuvenating and hospitable experience. Guest rooms have toiletries by sustainable wellbeing brand Rituals. Nearby attractions along the Mourne Coast are NearyNógs bean to bar craft chocolate maker, Two Stacks Whiskey, and The Game of Thrones Studio Tour.
Savour a farm to fork experience with nutrient-rich, seasonal menus inspired by the estate’s walled kitchen garden, honey apiary, Longhorn cattle and Cheviot sheep farm, and fresh fish from the Irish Sea. I enjoyed lamb sausage (with natural skin) infused with Killeavy honey, rosemary and herbs, and a side of sweet potato and bok choy.
The farm store has everything from preserves and honey and fresh produce and meat, to handsomely crafted Irish blackthorn walking sticks that will serve you well on your woodland walks or Mourne Mountain rambles. The blackthorn is a native tree found in Ireland and produces bitter sloe berries commonly used in gin; An Irish keepsake to be sure. Join a heritage tour of the estate, take a cookery class in the Walled Garden Studio, or shake things up with the ABBA murder mystery dining experience.
