General & History

This imposing castle stands near to the water's edge on an island that has been inhabited since the 12th century. It made an excellent safe haven for the original settlers, one of whom was a compiler of the Annals of Ulster which were once housed here. Today its idyllic setting in a landscape of lakes and islets offers guests complete seclusion with all the modern comforts associated with a luxury holiday home. The estate itself extends to almost 500 acres.

After the Flight of the Earls in the first years of the 17th century when a prominent group of Irish aristocrats of the Gaelic order left Ireland as they found English rule unacceptable, the Crown granted the lands of Fair Isle Castle to an eminent soldier. His descendent built the existing house on the land at the close of the 18th century. The original building was of modest proportions however it was extended in the course of the 18th century and then changed hands in the mid 19th century. The new owners, a clerical family, continued its alteration and expansion, adding a tower, coach house, estate offices, a garden house and farm buildings. The castle and estate stayed in the same family until 1991 when it was purchased by a Duke who is one of Northern Ireland's largest landowners, for his son. The current owner divides his time between London and the estate.

The garden house was the first building to be converted into holiday accommodation in the early 1990s, followed by the main house which sleeps up to 14 and is available for exclusive use rental on a self-catering or fully catered basis. Today the lavish interior makes the castle ideal for private family parties, special events, weddings, corporate functions, or just a group of friends looking for a relaxing retreat. It has been sensitively restored and blends period features and grandeur with modern facilities.