The History of Killeen Castle in County Meath Ireland
Steeped in history, yet full of aspiration for the future. Read how the castle has evolved through time and set to rise once more to become the centrepiece of Royal Meath.
1172
The earliest structure on the site of Killeen Castle is held by the Cusack family, more importantly, Geoffrey de Cusack
1181
The wooden fortification is replaced by a large stone castle built by Geoffrey de Cusack.
1399
The castle falls into the hands of the Plunkett family through the marriage of Lady Joan de Cusack to Christopher Plunkett of Rathregan.
Late 17th century
The castle falls into almost irreversible disrepair and is leased out.
1779
The castle was restored then, the demesne was landscaped, and some of the estate’s prominent features were added.
1803 to 1813
Significant work continues at the castle between these years under the watchful eye of Francis Johnston.
1841
Much of the castle is completely demolished and rebuilt again using a large amount of the existing material on the orders of the 9th Earl of Fingall in the style of a small Windsor Castle.
1951
Killeen Castle and the surrounding estate are sold to Sir Victor Sassoon.
1953
The Earl and Countess decided to move to a modern house they had built on the lands and most of the contents of the house were sold.
1963
A man named Daniel Wildenstein, a French art dealer and major racehorse owner, buys Killeen Castle.
1978
The castle and its surrounding estate are sold to the advertiser, Basil Brindley, who went forth and continued the stud farm operation.
1981
The castle is completely burnt out in an act of arson.
1989
The castle is abandoned for many years, sold again, and put into a stage of development.
1997
Snowbury Ltd purchases the castle and its grounds, with a vision to create today's magnificent estate.
2005
Plans were approved and work began.
2006
It is announced that the castle will be open in 2009.
2008
The first round of golf is played at Killeen Castle in the summer of 2008 by course designer and legend of the game, Jack Nicklaus.
2023
26 luxury lodge accommodations open catering for the tourist seeking a luxury escape in the surroundings of nature.
