Location: Collooney Map
Constructed: 14th century
Markree Castle, located in Collooney, County Sligo, Ireland, is a historic gem that blends centuries of rich history, architectural grandeur, and modern luxury. Nestled in a romantic landscape that inspired the poet W.B. Yeats, the castle is set on a 500-acre estate partially moated by the River Unshin, surrounded by lush gardens, rolling hills, and the rugged beauty of Ireland’s northwest along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Markree Castle’s story begins in the 14th century when
it served as a fortified outpost for the Irish McDonagh Clan, guarding a
ford across the River Unshin. In 1663, during the Cromwellian conquest
of Ireland, the land was granted to Cornet Edward Cooper, a soldier in
the Parliamentary Army, as a reward for his service. The original castle
was a modest structure, but it marked the beginning of the Cooper
family’s 350-year tenure at Markree. Edward married Máire Rua (Red
Mary), the widow of Conor O’Brien, who was killed in battle, and their
descendants continued to shape the castle’s legacy.
In the early
19th century, the Cooper family transformed the original Markree House
into the opulent castle seen today, with significant architectural
contributions from Francis Johnston, a renowned architect known for his
work on Dublin’s grand buildings. Further modifications were made in
1896, enhancing the interior. The castle remained a private residence
until after World War II, when its size made maintenance as a home
impractical. In 1989, Charles and Mary Cooper, the 10th generation of
the family, restored the dilapidated castle, converting it into a hotel.
In 2015, the Corscadden family, experienced Irish hoteliers, acquired
Markree and undertook extensive renovations, preserving its historical
charm while modernizing it as a luxury hotel.
The Cooper family’s
influence extended beyond the castle. Colonel Edward Joshua Cooper, born
in 1798, was a noted astronomer who established the Markree Observatory
in the 1830s, which housed the world’s largest refracting telescope at
the time. The observatory discovered the asteroid 9 Metis in the 1840s
and was a hub for global astronomical research until 1902. The Coopers
also supported the local community, notably during the Great Famine of
the 1840s, by funding infrastructure like the Collooney to Claremorris
railway line.
Markree Castle is a masterpiece of Irish Victorian
architecture, blending Gothic and classical elements. Its imposing
five-story gray stone facade, accessed through an arched stone
gatehouse, exudes grandeur yet feels welcoming upon entry. The castle’s
interior is equally impressive, with original features meticulously
preserved during renovations. Key architectural highlights include:
Grand Entrance and Staircase: The entrance features a monumental
cantilevered mahogany staircase leading to a grand hall. A second carved
wooden staircase ascends to the guest rooms, passing a massive
stained-glass window that traces the Cooper family tree from Victorian
times back to the era of King John.
Grand Hall: The hall boasts
soaring ceilings, intricate stucco work, and sparkling chandeliers,
creating a romantic and elegant atmosphere. Blazing fires in cozy
lounges, including a library that once housed 50,000 books, add warmth
and charm.
Dining Rooms: The interlinked dining rooms are adorned
with period furnishings and historic artifacts, offering an old-world
ambiance. Guests praise the elegant dining experience, enhanced by views
of the estate.
Victorian Walled Garden: The beautifully preserved
garden showcases diverse flora and fauna, providing a tranquil retreat.
The 500-acre estate includes manicured gardens, mature trees, and the
River Unshin, home to wildlife like red squirrels, otters, and
kingfishers.
The castle’s 31 guest rooms are individually designed,
blending historic charm with modern amenities. Each room features
antique furniture, en-suite bathrooms, direct-dial telephones,
hairdryers, televisions, individually controlled heating, and
beverage-making facilities. Many offer spectacular views of the gardens,
river, or countryside. Some rooms include luxurious touches like
claw-foot tubs or rainfall showerheads, and the castle is equipped with
a lift for accessibility.
Today, Markree Castle operates as a four-star luxury hotel, part
of the Romantic Castles of Ireland Collection and Original Irish
Hotels. It is renowned for its relaxed yet elegant atmosphere,
making it a premier destination for romantic getaways, weddings, and
events. Key offerings include:
Accommodation: The 31 en-suite
rooms range from double and twin bedrooms to family rooms and
suites, all finished to high standards with Egyptian cotton sheets,
premium bedding, and modern conveniences like free WiFi. Guests
describe the rooms as spacious, comfortable, and steeped in historic
charm.
Dining: The castle’s restaurant serves Irish and
international cuisine, with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and
dairy-free options. Guests rave about the outstanding food, from
delicious dinners to complimentary breakfasts, often enjoyed in the
elegant dining rooms or outdoor seating areas.
Events and
Weddings: Markree is a sought-after venue for weddings, with its
Grand Hall and 500-acre grounds providing a fairy-tale backdrop. The
castle offers exclusive-use options for events, ensuring privacy for
conferences, team-building retreats, or celebrations.
Activities:
The estate offers horse riding, and nearby attractions include six
golf courses, the 30-mile Lough Gill trail, and historic sites like
Creevelea Abbey, Parke’s Castle, and the prehistoric tombs of
Carrowmore. Guests can explore Sligo’s beaches, Benbulben, or
cultural sites tied to W.B. Yeats.
Service: The staff is
consistently praised for their friendliness, efficiency, and
dedication to guest satisfaction. Reviews highlight the warm,
down-to-earth service that enhances the castle’s home-like feel.
Markree Castle is a vital part of Ireland’s architectural and
cultural heritage. Its 350-year association with the Cooper family
reflects the nation’s complex history, from Cromwellian conquest to the
Great Famine and beyond. The castle’s observatory and the Coopers’
philanthropy underscore its role as a center of intellectual and social
progress.
The castle’s connection to W.B. Yeats, whose poetry was
inspired by Sligo’s landscapes, adds literary significance. Some sources
suggest that Cecil Frances Alexander wrote the hymn All Things Bright
and Beautiful while a guest at Markree in 1848, though this is
unconfirmed. The estate’s natural beauty and historical features, like
the stained-glass family tree, make it a living museum of Irish
heritage.
Haunted Reputation: Markree is said to be haunted by a friendly
child ghost named “Pippa,” who playfully locks doors or causes minor
mischief. Guests and staff embrace her presence, and some suggest
bringing a gift to avoid her tricks. A 2014 guest reported hearing a
little girl singing at night, adding to the castle’s mystique.
Record-Breaking Cold: On January 16, 1881, Markree recorded
Ireland’s lowest official temperature, -19.1°C (-2.4°F), a testament
to its exposed location.
Resident Mascot: Roisin, an Irish
Wolfhound, is a beloved presence, delighting guests, especially dog
lovers.
Faded Glory Charm: Unlike polished five-star hotels,
Markree’s slightly worn edges and quirky character appeal to those
seeking an authentic, unpretentious castle experience. Guests
describe it as a “step back in time” with a magical, fairy-tale
ambiance.
Reviews from platforms like Tripadvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia highlight Markree’s appeal. Guests call it “spectacular,” praising the stunning interiors, immaculate grounds, and exceptional service. Many describe their stay as a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience, particularly for weddings, which benefit from the castle’s romantic setting. Some note that rooms in the tower can be smaller, and solo diners may find the formal dining experience less engaging, but overall, the castle exceeds expectations.
Location: Markree Castle is in Collooney, 10 km south of Sligo City,
accessible via the N4 and R200. It’s 27 miles from Ireland West Knock
Airport.
Seasonality: The castle is open spring through fall, with
winter bookings primarily for weddings. August is both high and low
season, offering a balance of availability and vibrant atmosphere.
Pricing: Rates start at around $239 per night, though prices vary by
season and booking platform. For SuperGrok subscription details, visit
https://x.ai/grok.
Contact: Phone: +353 (0)71 916 7800; Website:
www.markreecastle.ie. Reservations can be made via Booking.com or
Expedia.