Saint Oliver Plunkett’s family church, which dates back to the 17th century, still stands within the grounds of Loughcrew estate and Civil, Humanist and Spiritualist ceremonies are permitted within its characterful, old walls.

The Plunkett family lived on the estate before it was taken by Oliver Cromwell in 1641 – it is said that he destroyed the church roof – and the outline of the location of what is thought to have been their home has only recently been discovered.

Born at Loughcrew in 1625, Oliver spent the first 22 years of his life here. One can imagine the young Oliver, playing in the gardens, swinging from the boughs of the ancient yews, fishing in the garden stream, helping out in the garden corn mill and walking up to the 5000 year old Cairns to wonder upon the faith of those who had built them.

It’s easy to see why the spiritual nature of Loughcrew must have launched the young Oliver on his journey to priesthood and eventual martyrdom. Mass is celebrated every 1st of July at the church in memory of Saint Oliver’s death in 1681.

The church is approached through a gorgeous lime tree avenue, and is a space you and your guests will be able to enjoy as you explore the grounds of Loughcrew during your stay.

Loughcrew is the perfect location in which to have your wedding ceremony in Ireland. The stunning lime tree avenue within the grounds leads to St Oliver Plunkett’s church and is a potential location in which you could tie the knot.

Imagine yourself walking over a stone bridge and along an aisle under lime tree boughs, before getting married with their gorgeous scent lingering in the air.

We can arrange the ceremony space to make it personal to you and we will ensure your guests are comfortable as you say your vows.

The palm house has a soaring ceiling and an intricate, wrought iron and glass roof designed by the famous architect Charles Cockerell. The walls are still adorned with original plaster work and luscious green plants have been left to grow wilfully in pots inside. Both these features are a nod towards this buildings past and is a wonderful place for your ceremony. We recommend you dot lit candles around the room to help enhance the natural, calm ambience you’ll find in here.

In addition, there is a balcony within the room where a violinist or singer can perform as you and your guests enter and leave. This will create a magical atmosphere before and after the ceremony.

The palm house is a perfect space in which to have an intimate ceremony. We also recommend it as a newlyweds breakfast or afternoon tea spot.

Plunkett’s bar and the banqueting rooms can also be turned into ceremony locations. These rooms were originally the stables and have been beautifully re-purposed. Floral motifs adorn the walls within the bar and a wooden ceiling has been installed. Within the banqueting rooms, a simple, rustic charm has been created by painting the brickwork, and by keeping the original beams and impressive dividing wooden doors.

If you were planning on having your ceremony outside but the weather is not in your favour on the big day, both rooms will make equally as impressive back up options.