Killeen Castle

The six lodges at Killeen Castle sit within the castle grounds beside the walled gardens and they're ideal if your group wants space, privacy and an easy walk to the golf. Each lodge has four en-suite bedrooms, so it works brilliantly for groups of eight, or smaller parties who want a bit more breathing room.

Inside, you've got open-plan living space that makes post-round downtime easy, whether that's watching the golf, sorting the next day's tee times or simply putting the feet up. The living areas are generous enough for everyone to spread out without feeling on top of each other, which matters when you're spending a few days together. Kitchens are fully equipped for self-catering, which is handy for early starts, quick breakfasts and keeping the trip flexible. You can stock up locally and run your own schedule rather than being tied to hotel dining times.

Bedrooms are finished to a high standard with quality linens and the bathrooms come stocked with premium toiletries, so it feels more proper golf break than basic rental. Each room has its own en-suite, which avoids the usual morning queue when you've got a group trying to make an 8am tee time.

Each lodge also has private outdoor space, either a patio or balcony, giving you somewhere to sit out with a drink and look across the countryside and the course. It's calm and quiet on site, but you're still close enough to Dublin if the group fancies dinner, pints or a late one in the city.

Parking is right by the lodges and you're literally a few minutes' walk from the clubhouse and first tee, so there's no messing about with transfers or early morning drives. For societies or groups of friends who want the freedom of self-catering without sacrificing comfort or location, the lodges suit that brief perfectly. You can run the weekend to your own schedule, play when you want and be back in your lodge within minutes of finishing your round.