Welcome to Our Family Story
About Us
The Story of The Keadeen
A Modern Classic with Deep Roots in Kildare
Where Elegance, Heritage, and Hospitality Bloom
Since opening its doors in 1970, The Keadeen Hotel has remained proudly family-owned and operated by the O’Loughlin family. What began as a dream between two Shannon College graduates, Joe and Rose O’Loughlin, has grown into a trusted, four-star destination for weddings, races, gatherings, and guests seeking that rare balance between warmth and refinement.
From Stud Farm to Staycation Staple
How It All Began
The Keadeen story started with a leap of faith. Joe and Rose purchased the original Keadeen House—once a private home on nine acres of stud farm—in Joe’s home county of Kildare. With the help of friends and family, the couple opened the hotel in December 1970, serving their first dinner dance and laying the foundation for over five decades of heartfelt service.
Today, the tradition continues with Rose and her three adult children leading the hotel forward while staying true to the founding philosophy: offer exceptional food and service in a relaxed, homely atmosphere.
Steeped in Horse Racing Heritage
Our Story Runs Beside the Curragh
Few places in Ireland carry as much equestrian history as The Keadeen. The hotel’s legacy is intertwined with some of the most iconic racing names in Irish sport.
Before it was a hotel, Keadeen House was home to P.J. “Darkie” Prendergast, the legendary horse trainer who helped put Irish racing on the global map. He trained Meadow Court, part-owned by Bing Crosby, who not only visited the house but famously serenaded the crowd after Meadow Court’s Irish Derby win in 1965.
This proud racing tradition lives on at The Keadeen through room names like The Meadow Court Suite, The Curragh Room, and memorabilia displayed throughout the hotel—including silks, photos, and tributes to both past and present racing greats.
Keadeen: What’s in a Name?
The name “Keadeen” (pronounced kay-deen) comes from the Irish “Céidín,” meaning “flat-topped hill.” Legend says the original builder saw Keadeen Mountain in nearby County Wicklow and named the house after it. Today, remnants of the original house—its chimneys, beams, and even former master bedroom (now The Suite)—can still be seen and felt throughout the property.
A Heritage That Keeps Evolving
From one dinner dance to a landmark hotel, The Keadeen has grown with intention and care. Renovations and upgrades over the decades have brought:
- 69 elegantly refreshed guest rooms
- Redesigned banqueting and meeting suites
- New garden spaces, courtyards, and leisure facilities
- The addition of The Atrium Lounge and extensive landscaping
Through all this growth, our soul has stayed the same—authentic, attentive, and rooted in the community.
A Guest List Full of Stories
Over the years, The Keadeen has welcomed everyone from Presidents and Taoisigh to movie stars, musicians, and sports legends. But here, every guest is treated with the same heartfelt care. It’s not about who you are—it’s about how you’re made to feel.
Visit Us & Become Part of the Story
Whether you’re here for a race day, a family celebration, or a peaceful retreat, you’ll find timeless Irish hospitality set among blooming gardens, rich stories, and warm smiles that make you feel right at home.
Book Your Stay
Explore Our Rooms
Standard Room
Discover classic comfort in our Standard Rooms at The Keadeen Hotel, Kildare. Overlooking landscaped gardens, enjoy free WiFi, a flatscreen TV, and cosy furnishings in an idyllic Irish countryside setting.
Superior Room
Discover the spacious Superior Rooms at The Keadeen Hotel, Kildare. Experience timeless Irish hospitality, garden views, and luxurious comfort in the heart of Newbridge.
Deluxe Room
Experience the versatile Deluxe Rooms at The Keadeen Hotel in Kildare. Perfect for families, couples, or groups, with spacious interiors, free Wi-Fi, and our signature Irish hospitality.
Suites
Discover spacious sitting areas, modern bathrooms, and our signature “home away from home” comfort in the heart of Kildare.
The VIP Suite
The VIP Suite—our most luxurious private apartment with expansive living, upgraded finishes, and timeless Irish hospitality in the heart of County Kildare.