Slane Castle opens a new chapter with a country twist
The lush banks of the River Boyne in County Meath have long been a canvas for music history. Slane Castle, with its iconic natural amphitheatre, has hosted generations of rock and pop titans. Now, the Conyngham family is weaving a broader tapestry, embracing country music, fashion, art, and broadcast storytelling to keep the estate vibrant for decades to come.
At the heart of this evolving vision is Alex, the 9th Marquess Conyngham, who greeted RTÉ News at the castle doors. Since inheriting the title only four months ago, he has been keen to balance tradition with experimentation, a balance he openly regards as essential to sustaining the 1,500-acre estate and its 300-year-old home.
“We miss the buzz when we don’t have a gig,” he says, explaining that the decision to host Luke Combs next July marks a conscious step toward welcoming music fans of all stripes while staying true to Slane’s storytelling roots. Country music, he notes, is a massive, narrative-driven genre that resonates with Ireland’s own love of personal songs and strong performances.
A return to Slane’s collaborative spirit
The plan for next year’s concert marks a return to form after a four-year pandemic hiatus and a notable pivot in 2023 when Harry Styles headlined the grounds. Some purists may yearn for the old rock banners, yet Alex emphasizes inclusivity. “I want, and the family wants, a reason for every music fan to have to be able to come to Slane,” he explains, underscoring a broader strategy to diversify the program without erasing Slane’s core identity.
Luke Combs’s headline slot sits alongside a strong Irish element, with The Script promised as a high-profile act on the lineup. This blend—international country talent with homegrown artists—reflects a deliberate effort to balance global appeal with local cultural support. Alex highlights the importance of Irish music as a pillar of Slane’s programming, framing a lineup that honors the past while inviting new audiences to the grounds.
Slane as a cultural hub beyond concerts
Music remains central, but the estate’s ambitions extend far beyond gigs. Ireland Fashion Week has already used the entrance hall as a makeshift runway, and the onsite Browne’s Bar—named for the castle’s legendary housekeeper—hosts exhibits and memorabilia spanning four decades of Slane concerts. The Traitors Ireland, a reality-format series shot on the property, has added another dimension, introducing a different way for audiences to engage with the site.
Alex sees these ventures as crucial to Slane’s long-term vitality. He mentions a “blank canvas” approach: varied art forms, fresh collaborations, and a willingness to host experiences that draw local communities and international visitors alike. The family’s broader ambitions also touch on Slane Irish Whiskey, which has evolved from a distillery venture into a brand with its own narrative arc and global potential.
Why the schedule feels right for today
The Conynghams’ strategy isn’t about chasing trends, but about enabling a living, breathing space that reflects music’s diverse language. While some fear an erosion of Slane’s iconic identity, Alex argues that the venue’s appeal comes from its ability to adapt without losing its heartbeat. The aim is to welcome a spectrum of audiences—from rock loyalists to country enthusiasts and curious fashion lovers—while keeping the setting intimate and accessible through carefully planned events.
Looking ahead: potential surprises and ongoing evolution
With rumors about possible additional dates and collaborations swirling, Slane’s future remains a topic of lively speculation. Alex teases possibilities while staying rooted in the practicalities of community impact and sustainability. “If the possibility arises and everyone is okay with it, then yeah,” he says of add-on shows, underscoring a collaborative approach with local stakeholders and fans alike.
Conclusion: Slane’s evolving tapestry
What’s unfolding at Slane isn’t a retreat from the castle’s legendary past, but a thoughtful expansion of it. By embracing country music, Irish talent, fashion, art, and broadcasting, the Conyngham family is weaving new threads into Slane’s tapestry—threads that promise to keep the grounds alive and beloved for future generations while staying faithful to the venue’s core magic.
