Christmas at Ballymaloe House

A special kind of magic

There is a special kind of magic at Ballymaloe House in the weeks before Christmas. The fields rest under a pale morning frost, and the garden settles into a peaceful rhythm. Inside, the wood fire crackles in the Drawing Room, inviting you to sit beside the Christmas tree. And as daylight fades early, the soft glow of lamps and Christmas lights greets you on arrival.

If you are looking for a Christmas break in Ireland, our historic country house in East Cork offers a memorable setting for festive gatherings, with exceptional seasonal dining and warm Irish hospitality. From seasonal stays and Christmas lunches to festive dinners and private celebrations, there are many ways to enjoy the season at Ballymaloe House.

A stay before or after Christmas gives you time to soak up the festive atmosphere in one of the best hotels in Cork.

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Grilled langoustines on white plate with green herb sauce, olive oil drizzle and lemon wedge — seaside restaurant dining amenity

Festive Dining

Celebrate the season with festive dining in East Cork at Ballymaloe House. Our menus are created daily and feature the freshest seasonal ingredients, grown in our walled garden and farm.

Christmas lunch is available Monday to Saturday from 1–19 December, offering a delicious showcase of seasonal Irish produce. Our five-course dinner is served Monday to Saturday in our historic dining rooms, with each course capturing the warmth and flavour of Christmas at Ballymaloe House. On Sundays, we offer separate lunch and dinner menus.

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Festive indoor market in a hotel atrium with stalls, balcony seating, central Christmas tree and guests browsing local crafts and food.

The perfect way to start your Christmas Shopping

The Ballymaloe Craft Fair brings together more than 200 Irish makers, producers and artisans over two weekends, with a different selection of stalls each weekend. Browse handmade gifts, festive decorations and artisan food while supporting Irish craft and design.

The Christmas Craft Fair takes place from 20–22 and 27–29 November 2026.

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New Year’s Celebration

Welcome 2027 with us at Ballymaloe House. Our New Year’s Eve package is a three-night stay beginning on 30 December, with breakfast each morning and a five-course dinner on both 30 December and 1 January.

On New Year’s Eve, the celebration begins with a Cava reception, followed by an incredible five-course dinner in the exquisite surroundings of our country house, with light music after dinner.

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