They say “It’s a long way to Tipperary” — and sure, the song has a point for us Londoners — but that hasn’t stopped A-listers from the capital and even further afield from making the trip. Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy and even Princess Diana have ventured there to check into the iconic Cashel Palace Hotel: a five-star gem right in the heart of the county.
Originally built in 1728 by renowned architect Sir Edward Lovett Pearce, this red-bricked Palladian beauty was once home to a string of distinguished archbishops. Fast-forward a couple of centuries, and after Lord Brockett transformed it into a luxury hotel 60 years ago, it became a secluded retreat in the Irish countryside for Hollywood’s finest.
Like all good things, its sparkle faded, and the doors sadly shut in 2014. But cue its comeback in March 2022, after a multi-million-euro glow-up led by John and Susan Magnier, who are Irish racehorse breeders and former shareholders in Manchester United Football Club.
The result? Cashel Palace Hotel is more fabulous than ever. A glorious mash-up of historic charm, modern luxury, and a sprinkle of star-studded legacy. It just awaits its next round of legendary guests.
Where is it?
Nestled in the heart of County Tipperary, where rolling green hills meet centuries of history, you’ll find this grand Palladian manor perfectly perched at the foot of Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most awe-inspiring historic sites. Think ancient ruins, turrets, and enough medieval drama to fuel a Netflix series.
The idea? Come for the Rock, stay for the Palace, because once you catch a glimpse of its red-bricked beauty (and maybe a crackling fireside cocktail), you won’t be rushing off anytime soon.
Style
Tucked away from Cashel town’s main street, the palatial red-brick façade makes a striking first impression, reached via a peaceful, yew-lined driveway that feels like the perfect prelude to what’s inside. Step through the doors and you’re welcomed by the soft crackle of log fires, plush velvet sofas, and a scattering of books and morning papers that practically beg you to sink in and stay a while.
The walls are adorned with a carefully curated art collection, featuring reproductions of renowned Irish masters — from Jack B. Yeats to Sir John Lavery — from the Magnier family’s private collection, alongside a few well-placed originals. Anchoring the heart of the original property is a sweeping Georgian staircase with intricate hand-turned banisters. It leads to rooms that lean into the Palace’s deep equestrian roots, with subtle nods to horse racing heritage throughout.
London designer Emma Pearson has worked her magic here, blending the old with the new. The cornicing and the grand red pine staircase have been restored, and they’ve been matched with rich tones, plush textures, and just the right amount of modern flair. Now the space feels both regal and cosy.
Food & Drink
Dining at Cashel Palace is a masterclass in contemporary Irish cuisine, with a focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. It showcases the best of Tipperary’s rich agricultural heritage.
At its heart is the Michelin-starred Bishop’s Buttery, where Executive Chef Stephen Hayes has curated an elegant yet indulgent menu. Set in the vaulted cellar of the original manor, the space oozes character with stone walls, a roaring central fireplace, and plush blood-red banquet tables. You can opt for a two or three-course Table d’Hôte menu, packed with dishes like cured foie gras, succulent duck breast, and a stellar selection of fresh seafood. Think scallops and halibut. But for those wanting the full experience under Director of Food and Beverages Patrick Healy’s stewardship, there’s the six-course tasting menu.
Post-dinner, head to the Guinness Bar, an effortlessly cool space where the vaulted ceiling proudly lists the hotel’s star-studded past guests. Why Guinness? Well, here’s a nugget of trivia: Arthur Guinness himself reportedly used inheritance from his godfather—one of the palace’s former archbishops—to lease Dublin’s famous St James’s Gate Brewery and start his Guinness empire.
If you fancy something a little stronger, overnight guests get access to the residents-only cocktail bar, where the drinks are expertly mixed and generously poured.
Should you be after a less formal affair, take a stroll over to Mikey Ryan’s Bar & Kitchen, the hotel’s next-door gastropub, connected by a private path. It’s a local favourite with a seasonally-driven menu, cosy indoor vibes, and a charming garden that’s perfect for al fresco dining in the summer.
For something further afield, Sadler’s Restaurant, about 20 minutes away, offers classic Irish cuisine in a chic, equestrian-inspired space — fitting, considering the hotel’s ties to Ireland’s horse breeding royalty, Coolmore Stud and Ballydoyle.
Following an evening of eating, the Queen Anne Room provides an elegant setting for breakfast, afternoon tea, and a refined selection of light dishes throughout the day with a striking view overlooking the Rock of Cashel.
Facilities
Cashel Palace Hotel’s state-of-the-art spa is a sanctuary of relaxation. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, offering serene views of the gardens, while a 17-metre swimming pool — with a unique five-metre outdoor section — allows guests to swim between indoor and outdoor waters. Beyond the pool, there’s a jacuzzi and steam rooms for that extra level of unwinding.
The spa menu features treatments using premium brands such as Swiss skincare expert Valmont, organic favourite Bamford, and Ireland’s own seaweed-based Voya. For an invigorating wellness experience, they also offer outdoor Voya seaweed or Soak salt baths. Expert facials are available from renowned skin specialist Olga Kochlewska, while Mary Quinlan Hair offers high-end salon services for those in need of a refresh.
Extracurricular
If there’s one thing Cashel Palace Hotel takes seriously (besides luxury, of course), it’s horses. With its strong connection to Ireland’s legendary horse-racing heritage, the hotel offers guests a front-row seat to the world of thoroughbreds. This is led by Equine Concierge, Emma-Mai Roche, whose passion for the sport is matched only by her encyclopedic knowledge of its history. Thanks to its owner, the Magnier family, guests get VIP access to the famed Coolmore Stud, one of the most prestigious thoroughbred breeding operations in the world. Usually closed to the public, this is a rare, behind-the-scenes peek.
Prefer to be on the horse rather than just admiring it? The hotel can arrange horseback rides for all ages and abilities, from gentle treks through lush countryside to more adventurous gallops.
If you’re more into hiking boots than saddles, nearby trails like The Devil’s Bit and Knockmealdown Mountains offer epic views and a proper leg stretch.
And then there’s the Rock of Cashel — an Irish icon that’s practically in the hotel’s backyard. Guests can take the Bishop’s Walk, a private pathway that winds through the hotel’s grounds straight to this medieval marvel. Perched on a limestone outcrop, the site is packed with ancient treasures: a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, and a towering fifteenth-century keep — all with sweeping views of Tipperary’s rolling hills. According to legend St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aengus of Munster to Christianity.
Which Room
Rooms in the Garden Wing are spacious and airy, dressed in soft pastel tones. Meanwhile, those in the original manor range from cosy attic hideaways to grand spaces with soaring ceilings and four-poster beds.
The most sought-after rooms offer stunning views over the manicured gardens, stretching towards the Rock of Cashel, which is dramatically illuminated at night, adding to the sense of history and romance, so be sure to request.
In the bathrooms, guests will find marble finishes, double sinks, and indulgent rain showers, alongside Memo Paris bath products. Thoughtful touches set Cashel Palace Hotel apart — no noisy Nespresso machines, but instead, freshly ground coffee from Tipperary’s Ponaire. Instead of a standard minibar, a complimentary pantry drawer is stocked with locally sourced treats: bottled juices and lemonade from The Apple Farm, O’Donnell’s Crisps, and Braw Chocolate from Limerick.
The Details
Rooms at the Cashel Palace start from £300 for a classic room while suites begin at £658. Cashelpalacehotel.ie
