Shankill Castle — Attraction in The Municipal District of Castlecomer

Overall we really enjoyed our visit here. The particulars follow

The Cafe was simply done, vegetarian and very good. We liked it. Light, healthy food and nice staff.

The grounds were attractive and pleasant. We enjoyed the walk around. The exterior of the house was architecturally appealing with an assortment of differing features, apparently with the base of a tower house imbedded in the structure.

The inside was seen by a tour from the owner who was knowledgeable and informative. Basically we liked the house. However, what is the source of our low score in stars is what is inside the house. Most rooms were ‘graced’ by nude paintings. That in itself was not too big of an issue. What IS an issue with us at least is that two or three of them were extreme and over the top. Downright offensive and I will not describe them. We brought two 11 year old girls with us and they are still talking about them and thought them upsetting. I had many questions to answer when we got home. Some I cannot answer such as ‘why?’ Because of these items, we say the house is NOT APPROPRIATE FOR CHILDREN. With the paintings removed, we would have added 2 more stars and would give it a child...

One of the highlights of our weekend away. It wouldn't be for everyone, doesn't have the formal gardens or plant variety of the likes of Altamont. The cafe is limited in selection but is a beautiful space to relax in. Shankill has massive atmosphere and character, a little scruffy, charmingly eccentric. The ancient graveyard has the most amazing headstones if you take time to search the carvings. We'll go back next time we're in the area and hope to tour the house in future.

One year later and we returned, this time we booked the house tour. Highly recommend it, the interior is fascinating, full of paintings by the owner Elizabeth Cole. We were lucky to have her as tour guide, lovely eccentricity and up for a bit of fun, the whole place is wonderful. Lovely to see such life in a heritage site, long may it continue. Thank you Elizabeth, from your Co Tyrone visitors, we enjoyed...

Stayed in Shankill over their scarefest 2015. Absolutely loved it! The family are utterly charming and go out of their way to make one feel at home. Even if you come here just for a quick tour on your way to or from Dublin it is well worth it to see the paintings alone - both Elizabeth and Phoebe Cope are extremely talented artists. The family makes delicious apple juice from the trees in their beautiful walled garden. Reuben and Sybil are extremely welcoming - shankill is a glowing example of authentic Irish hospitality. The highlight of my trip - will definitely...