Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 178. “(Levinge, Bt/Pb) An imposing Gothic-Revival castle of ca 1830, by James Shielf, built for Sir Richard Levinge, 6th Bt. The main bloc, dominated by two square turrets, is joined to a gate tower by a lower range. Arcaded Gothic central hall. Oak carvings; Elizabethan style staircase. Sold, ca 1940, to P. Dunne-Cullinan. Now the home of Baron and Baroness von Prondzynski.”
Originally Sir Richard Morrison was requested to design the castle, but neither of his two designs were accepted.
The client then contacted the Dublin architect and builder James Shiel probably on account of his work at Tullynally in nearby Co. Longford. Still a family home today Knockdrin may have included part of an existing eighteenth century house, that Shiel added Gothic trimmings to.
Earlier Houses: The current house replaced a Norman castle that was destroyed by fire in the late 18th century.
Built / Designed For: Sir Richard Levinge
House & Family History: Knockdrin is a castellated house that replaced a Norman castle that was destroyed by fire in the late 18th century. The new House was then redesigned and enlarged in the Gothic Revival style, circa 1830, by James Shiel for Sir Richard Levinge, 6th Bt., and lord lieutenant of Westmeath. The first Sir Richard Levinge was lord chief justice of Ireland and a member of the lords commissioners, who were appointed by the crown to settle all the land questions which had arisen in Ireland after the Cromwellian Conquest, the Restoration, and the Williamite Wars. Sir Richard purchased the Knockdrin Estate from the Tuites, a Norman-Irish family (the Levinge family came to Ireland with the Williamites in the late 17th century). During the late 19th and early 20th centuries Lord Randolph and Lady Churchill were frequent visitors to Knockdrin. During the Emergency (World War II), the House was taken over for troop accommodation and was occupied by a company of the 6th (Dublin) Infantry of the Irish Army. The Army left in 1945 and returned the House to the Levinge family, who sold up in 1946 to Paddy Dunne-Cullinan, who made the House his seat until 1961, when he sold the Estate to a German couple, Hans and Irene von Prondzynski. Until the mid-19th century Knockdrin was known as High Park; the property was renamed Knockdrin after a hill on the Estate.
Collections: A pair of George III Irish giltwood girandoles, circa 1780, likely made for Sir Charles Levinge, 5th Bt., of Knockdrin, sold at Christie’s at the Glin Castle sale of May 7, 2009 for £20,000, against an estimate of £15,000-25,000.
Garden & Outbuildings: The Estate ran to 12,000 acres when the Levinge family purchased it from the Tuites in the late 17th century; today the Estate encompasses 1,000 acres, laid out as a hunting ground (the arable land is leased).
Architect:James Shiel
Date: Circa 1830 Designed: Enlarged House in Gothic Revival style for Sir Richard Levinge, 6th Bt.
Seat of: Ferdinand von Prondzynski
Past Seat of: Tuites family, until 18th century. Sir Richard Levinge, 18th century; Levinge family here until 1946. Paddy Dunne-Cullinan, 1946-61
KNOCKDRIN CASTLE, MULLINGAR, COUNTY WESTMEATH, IRELAND A splendid eighteenth century Gothic Revival Castle majestically positioned within a rolling parkland estate of some 500 acres [202 hectares]. Quoting Excess €5 million. Knockdrin Castle is one of the finest picturesque castellated country houses built in Ireland during the first half of the 19th Century. The castle was built by Sir Richard Levinge [1785-1848], who commissioned building the Gothic Revival style castle residence circa 1810. Within the gardens there is also the remains of a Medieval 16th Century, thought to date to circa 1550. A most striking feature at Knockdrin is the top-lit staircase made of carved oak, like the doors throughout the castle. An abundance of natural light provided by a central glazed dome. The elaborate first floor gallery is decorated with fluted shafts and a sequence of ogee-headed niches around the walls. Reception rooms on the ground floor include a reception hall, drawing room, dining room, ballroom and library. The accommodation within the castle extends to some 19,375 square feet and provides 7 principal bedrooms [12 in total], including the Crown Bedroom where British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill stayed during the War of Independence [his parents being regular hunting visitors to the estate]. 4 estate lodges complete the accommodation. In the Irish War of Independence [1917 to 1921] the rail line between Mullingar and Dublin was bombed and was out of commission. It is locally alleged that Winton Churchill, who was staying at Knockdrin Castle, turned up at the local station demanding to go to Dublin. A local policeman is said to have told him this was not possible, to which Churchill replied ‘I don’t think you realise who I am’.
To which the policeman is said to of wittily replied ‘Even if you were the Station Masters son we could not get you on a train to Dublin.’ The picturesque is also celebrated beyond the castle with an attractive undulating topography throughout the estate, which includes belts of highly productive arable lands along with commercial woodland and a large lake [Lough Drin], where the footprint of a lakeside Tea House is still visible.
The castle is privately and centrally positioned within the lands and enjoys uninterrupted views over estate lands to the distant hills beyond. In all the estate extends to some 500 acres [202 hectares] comprising some: 160 acres [65 hectares] in arable lands; 250 acres [101 hectares] in woodland; 80 acres [32 hectares] in a lake and the balance of circa 10 acres [4 hectares] comprised of the castle with its immediate gardens and the farmstead. Additional lands adjoining the estate, up to some 680 acres [275 acres], are possibly available to additionally purchase. Similarly a sale of the castle on less lands may also be considered.
The location is picturesque and unspoilt but easily accessible with Dublin city centre and Dublin International airport each within driving times of about 60 minutes. The M4 motorway being easily accessible with a driving time of 5 minutes to the nearest intersection. The large town of Mullingar is about a 10 minute drive from Knockdrin. The smaller towns of Castlepollard and Cloughan are about a 15 and 8 minute drive away respectively. The village of Crookedwood is 2.2 miles (3.6 km) away. Adjacent to the estate is a Petrol Station which has a small grocery and newsagents shop.
Knockdrin Castle is thought to be the first house in Ireland to have both central heating [a hot air based system] and electricity. Benefitting from major upgrading some 50 years ago and well maintained since Knockdrin Castle is structurally in good repair but, given the passage of time, requires upgrading. Knockdrin Castle represents an excellent opportunity to acquire one of Ireland’s premier and sizable castle estates. Eircode N91 AOK7 [Property Specific Address Code] GPS location 53.567419, -7.323021 Selling Agent David Ashmore [PSRA Licence 003640]
Knockdrin Castle, Knockdrin, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, photograph courtesy Sotheby’s.Knockdrin Castle, Knockdrin, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, photograph courtesy Sotheby’s.Knockdrin Castle, County Westmeath, photograph by Robert French, (between ca. 1865-1914), Lawrence Photograph Collection, National Library of Ireland.Knockdrin Castle, County Westmeath, photograph by Robert French, (between ca. 1865-1914), Lawrence Photograph Collection, National Library of Ireland.Knockdrin Castle, County Westmeath, photograph by Robert French, (between ca. 1865-1914), Lawrence Photograph Collection, National Library of Ireland.Knockdrin Castle, Knockdrin, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, photograph courtesy Sotheby’s.Knockdrin Castle, Knockdrin, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, photograph courtesy Sotheby’s.Knockdrin Castle gate, County Westmeath, photograph by Robert French, (between ca. 1865-1914), Lawrence Photograph Collection, National Library of Ireland.
THE LEVINGE BARONETS WERE MAJOR LANDOWNERS IN COUNTY WESTMEATH, WITH 5,017 ACRES
The first of this name on record is LEVINGE or Lyfing, Archbishop of Canterbury, 1013, who crowned CANUTE in 1017, and died in 1020; next is LEVINGE or Lyfing, Bishop of Worcester and Crediton in 1046, whose nephew possessed, at the time of the Domesday survey, six lordships in Derbyshire and two in Nottinghamshire.
THOMAS LEVINGE, elder brother of Mr Sergeant Levinge, MP and Recorder of Derby during the reign of JAMES I, purchased the Manor of Parwich, Derbyshire, in 1561.
He married Dorothy, daughter of John Beresford, of Newtown Grange, Derbyshire, and was grandfather of
RICHARD LEVINGE, of Parwich, barrister and Recorder of Chester, who married, in 1653, Anne, daughter of George Parker, of Park Hill, Staffordshire, aunt of Thomas, Earl of Macclesfield, LORD CHANCELLOR OF ENGLAND, and was father of
THE RT HON SIR RICHARD LEVINGE (1656-1724), Knight, of the Inner Temple, Parwich, Derbyshire, and High Park, Mullingar, County Westmeath, Recorder of, and MP for Chester, 1690-95, Derby, 1710-11, who wedded firstly, in 1680, Mary, daughter and co-heir of Sir Gawen Corbyn, Knight, of London, by whom he had three sons and three daughters; and secondly, in 1723, Mary, daughter of Robert Johnson, one of the Barons of the Exchequer in Ireland, and by her had one son, Richard, of Calverstown, County Kildare.
Sir Richard, MP for Blessington, 1692-3, Longford Borough, 1698-9 and 1703-13, Kilkenny, 1713-14, was created a baronet in 1704, designated of High Park, County Westmeath.
Sir Richard was succeeded by his eldest son,
SIR RICHARD LEVINGE, 2nd Baronet (c1690-1748), of Parwich, and High Park (Knockdrin Castle), MP for County Westmeath, 1723-7, Blessington, 1727-48, who wedded, in 1718, Isabella, daughter of SIR ARTHUR RAWDON Bt, of Moira, County Down; but dying without issue, in 1748, was succeeded by his brother,
SIR CHARLES LEVINGE, 3rd Baronet (1693-1762), who espoused, in 1722, Anne, daughter and co-heir of Major Samuel Greene MP, of Killaghy Castle, County Tipperary, and was succeeded by his only child,
SIR RICHARD LEVINGE, 4th Baronet (c1723-86), High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1764, who married firstly, in 1748, Dorothea, daughter and co-heir of William Kennedy MP, of County Longford, and had issue,
CHARLES, his successor; Richard; Anne; Dorothea; Frances.
Sir Richard was succeeded by his eldest son,
SIR CHARLES LEVINGE, 5th Baronet (1751-96), High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1791, who wedded, in 1779, Elizabeth Frances, only daughter of Nicholas Reynell, of Reynella, County Westmeath, and had issue,
RICHARD, his successor; Charles, Lieutenant-Colonel; Selina; Caroline; Anne; Frances.
Sir Charles was succeeded by his eldest son,
SIR RICHARD LEVINGE, 6th Baronet (1785-1848), of Knockdrin Castle, High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1808, who espoused, in 1810, Elizabeth Anne, eldest daughter of Thomas, 1st Baron Rancliffe, and had issue,
RICHARD GEORGE AUGUSTUS, his successor; George Charles Rawdon; Reginald Thomas John; Augustus Frederick; Charles Vere; Vere Henry; William James, father of the 9th Baronet; Edward Parkyns; Harry Corbyn, High Sheriff of Co Westmeath, 1886; Elizabeth Anne; Georgiana Frances Caroline.
Sir Richard was succeeded by his eldest son, SIR RICHARD GEORGE AUGUSTUS LEVINGE, 7th Baronet (1811-84), of Knockdrin Castle, High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1851, MP for County Westmeath, 1857-65, Lieutenant-Colonel, Westmeath Rifles, who married firstly, in 1849, Caroline Jane, daughter of Colonel Lancelot Rolleston; and secondly, in 1870, Margaret Charlotte, daughter of Sir George Campbell; the marriages, however, were without issue, when the baronetcy devolved upon his brother,
SIR VERE HENRY LEVINGE, 8th Baronet (1819-85), of the Madras Civil Service, who died unmarried, when the title reverted to his cousin,
SIR WILLIAM HENRY LEVINGE, 9th Baronet (1849-1900), who wedded, in 1876, Emily Judith, daughter of Sir Richard Sutton Bt, and had issue,
RICHARD WILLIAM, his successor;
Thomas Vere;
Reginald Augustus;
Charles Horace;
Bernard George;
Gerald Henry;
Dorothy Mary Gertrude; Beatrice Maud Cecil.
Sir William was succeeded by his eldest son,
SIR RICHARD WILLIAM LEVINGE, 10th Baronet (1878-1914), DL, High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1908, who espoused, in 1910, Irene Marguerite, daughter of J H C Pix, and had issue,
RICHARD VERE HENRY, his successor.
Sir Richard, an army officer killed in action during the First World War, was succeeded by his only child,
SIR RICHARD VERE HENRY LEVINGE, 11th Baronet (1911-84), MBE, of Knockdrin Castle, who espoused firstly, in 1935, Barbara Mary, daughter of George Jardine Kidston, and had issue,
RICHARD GEORGE ROBIN, his successor;
Michael James;
Elizabeth Anne; Patricia Mary; Susan Maureen; Mary Irene.
He married secondly, in 1976, Jane Rosemary, daughter of John Thomas Stacy, without further issue.
Sir Richard was succeeded by his eldest son,
SIR RICHARD GEORGE ROBIN LEVINGE, 12th Baronet (1946-), who married firstly, in 1969, Hilary Jane, daughter of Dr Derek Mark, and has issue,
RICHARD MARK, born in 1970.
Sir Richard wedded secondly, in 1978, Maria Isabella, daughter of daughter of Prince Ferdinando d’Ardia Caracciolo dei Principi di Cursi, and has further issue,
KNOCKDRIN CASTLE, near Mullingar, County Westmeath, is an impressive Gothic-Revival mansion of about 1830 by James Shiel.
It was built for Sir Richard Levinge, 6th Baronet,
The main block comprises two square turrets, joined to a gate-tower by a lower range.
There is an arcaded Gothic central hall; oak carvings; and an Elizabethan-style staircase.
During the 2nd World War the castle was requisitioned for troop accommodation and was occupied by a company of the 6th (Dublin) Infantry of the Irish Army.
The army left in 1945 and handed the castle back to the Levinges.
Sir Richard William Levinge, 10th Baronet, was High Sheriff of County Westmeath, 1908.
The Levinge family owned Knockdrin until 1946, although the 11th Baronet (later a Director of Guinness Ltd) had not been resident there for some time.
In that year the estate was sold to Paddy Dunne-Cullinan, who remained at Knockdrin until 1961, when he in turn sold the estate to Hans and Irene Freiherr von Prondzynski from Germany.
The arable land is now leased out, but the family continues to live in the castle.
Former residences ~ Johnston House, Chapelizod, County Dublin; Castlemount, Castleknock, County Dublin; Clohamon House, Ferns, County Wexford.
The entrance to Knockdrin, County Westmeath. Like the main house, this was designed for Sir Richard Levinge around 1810 by Richard Morrison. The high-romantic and intentionally asymmetrical style of arched gateway flanked by dummy turret on one side and taller octagonal tower on the other serve as a prelude to what lies at the end of the drive: a full-blown castle. For more on Knockdrin, see Knock Knock, August 5th 2013.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
The popularity of the gothic style for domestic buildings in early 19th century Ireland owed something to a desire among landed families to suggest longer residence here than was often actually the case. The Levinges, for example, only came to this country in the aftermath of the Williamite Wars when the Derbyshire-born lawyer William Levinge was appointed Irish Solicitor-General and Speaker of the House of Commons; he later became Attorney-General and Lord Chief Justice. As a reward for his services, in 1704 he received a baronetcy and duly became Sir Richard Levinge of High Park in the County of Westmeath. Today the property is known as Knockdrin, built close to a late mediaeval castle once belonging to the Tuite family; it was their lands that Sir Richard acquired and on which he built a new house. However by the early 19th century this had fallen into disrepair and so the sixth baronet, also called Sir Richard Levinge, embarked on a rebuilding programme that would give him a splendid gothic castle and all the links with an ancient past this implied.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
It is not known for certain who was responsible for the design of Knockdrin Castle. Sir Richard Morrison produced a design for the entrance front but while elements of this were incorporated into the eventual building it cannot be attributed to him. Instead Knockdrin is assigned to James Shiel, believed to have trained in the office of Francis Johnston an architect who created some of the finest gothic revival castles in Ireland, not least Charleville, County Offaly. Like Charleville, Knockdrin’s late-mediaeval trappings are lightly worn: this is essentially a Georgian country house in fancy dress. The entrance front presents a degree of asymmetry, primarily thanks to a long castellated curtain wall leading to a two-storey gatehouse providing access to the service courtyard. But the battlemented main block, of rubble limestone with dressed window surrounds and featuring a wide fanlit doorway flanked by square towers, has only superficial quirks, such as a slim turret on the south corner. And notice how standard rectangular sash windows are used on the upper storeys.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
A similarly familiar sense of order can be found inside where once more the usual forms are followed, albeit decked out in gothic flummery. As in so many Irish houses the rear of the entrance hall has a screen but in this instance it is composed of three pointed arches supported on slender cluster-shafted columns. Doors to either side open onto the library and dining room (the latter now regrettably divided in two). But another door provides access to Knockdrin’s most striking feature: a top-lit staircase with the stairs (like the doors throughout the building) made of carved oak. The elaborate first floor is decorated with a gallery of fluted shafts and sequence of ogee-headed niches around the walls. Abundant light provided by a central glazed dome helps to create a fluid, elegant space possessing none of the heaviness customarily associated with the Gothic Revival movement. On the other hand, despite high ceilings emblazoned with plasterwork of Tudor roses and the like, the enfilade of ground floor reception rooms – ballroom, drawing room, library – is less distinguished, although a line of full-length, south-facing windows means that like the staircase hall they are exceptionally bright.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin remained in the possession of the Levinge family until the last century. Within weeks of the outbreak of the First World War the tenth baronet, another Sir Richard Levinge, was dead after being hit in the neck by a bullet as he walked along a trench at Ypres. His widow and only son moved to England and the house was let to various tenants; at one point it served as a school and in the early 1940s was occupied by members of the Irish army who inevitably inflicted a certain amount of damage on the building. Finally in 1943, the greater part of the estate having already been broken up by the Land Commission, the castle and surrounding land was sold by the Levinges, thereby ending a link of almost 250 years. The present owners bought the place in 1961 and have cared for it ever since. One should not try to make exaggerated claims for Knockdrin. It is certainly not a house of the first importance, but can be considered noteworthy as an example of the transition from classicism to gothic, when the latter was still a style and not yet an ideology and the former’s principles survive beneath a veneer of ornamentation. Below is a portrait of Sir Richard, the sixth baronet who commissioned the house. The picture was painted by the minor English artist Thomas Shew in 1828 and includes a view of Knockdrin, presumably imaginary since Shew never came to Ireland.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Knockdrin, County Westmeath, photograph courtesy Robert O’Byrne.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
P. 51. “[Minchin] A partly castellated 2 storey house built on the site of an old castle originally called Bouchardstown, after the original owner, Bouchard de Marisco. Granted in C17 to Charles Minchin; an early C18 house being built on the site of the old castle by Humphrey Minchin, MP, and improved by his son, another Humphrey. The house was partly burnt 1764, having been set on fire by robbers; it was subsequently rebuilt and given a slightly castellated facade, rather similar to the nearby Mount Heaton. Round tower at one end; 3 bay centre, with Georgian sash windows; bow-ended square tower with segmental pointed windows at other end of front. Battlemented and machicolated parapet. The side of the house is not castellated but quite plain; of three bays, the centre bay breaking forward. Lower service wing with gable at other end of house. Painted ceiling decoration in reception rooms. Early C19 round tower on the summit of wooded hill behind the house. Sold 1973.
George Minchin wearing a red military jacket, 18C English school, from Loughton house sale, 2016, Shepphards.
Busherstown House is situated about 2km from Moneygall village. It is a partly castellated house of two stories and 3 bays with a round tower attached at one end. The house was reconstructed by Mr. Humphrey Minchin in the early 18th century on the site of the castle of Bouchardstown which was owned by Mr. John Carroll and his son Donough in the first half of the 17th century. Mr Minchin also built an ornamental round tower on a hill overlooking the house.
Detached three-bay two-storey castellated country house, rebuilt c.1815, following fire in 1812. Built on site of an O’Carroll castle. Round-profile tower to north end of facade, projecting square-profile bays with full-height bow to south end of facade. Pitched and hipped slate roofs, hidden to front by castellated parapet. Cast-iron rainwater goods. Rear porch with hipped slate roof. Ruled-and-lined rendered walls to façade and south wing. Random coursed stone and roughcast render to rear elevations. Timber sash window with tooled stone sills. Four-centre arched door opening to front with timber panelled door and Gothic style fanlight having intersecting glazing bars, accessed by tooled stone steps. Stone outbuildings to north and east enclosing central yard. Outbuilding to north with cut stone bellcote. Integral carriage arch opening to north-west outbuilding with wrought-iron gate, accessing central yard. Outbuildings to north of yard and to west of walled garden have been renovated and currently used as apartment and art studio, respectively. Wrought-iron gate to north of facade. Walled garden to east with random coursed stone walls. Square-profile ashlar limestone gate piers to road with cast-iron gates and railings, and rendered sweeping walls. Spearhead finials to gates and railings.
Appraisal
The castellated façade of Busherstown House camouflages a unique structure that incorporates various wings, returns and extensions. The eclectic character of the residence is owed to the fact that it was constructed during various phases, the most notable of which resulted in the addition of its fine early nineteenth-century Gothic Revival frontage with terminating towers and a crenelated parapet. Features of note include the symmetrical sash windows and an attractive entrance door, which boasts a decorative fanlight. The ranges of outbuildings, set to the rear around a central courtyard, enhance the country house. The entrance to the house’s avenue is well presented with flat panelled ashlar limestone gate piers, which are complimented by iron gates and railings.
Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.Busherstown, County Offaly, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.
In The Beauties of Ireland (1826), James Norris Brewer explains the name of Busherstown, County Offaly as follows: ‘Busherstown, the seat of the Minchin family, was originally called Bouchardstown, and formerly belonged to the de Mariscos. Bouchard de Marisco, from whom the name of this place is derived, left a daughter and heir, who married O’Carroll, of Clonlisk and Couloge…’ The accuracy of this tale might be open to question, since it seems hard to find any de Marisco with the first name Bouchard. There certainly were members of the family prominent in this part of the country, not least Geoffrey de Marisco, an ally of King John who in the first half of the 13th century was Justiciar of Ireland on several occasions: through his wife, Eva de Bermingham, he came to hold large swathes of land in this part of the country.
Whatever the origins of its name, Busherstown appears to have originated as a tower house perhaps in the 16th century when it was held by the O’Carrolls: the space now serving as a dining room in the centre of the western side of the building was probably the tower house. For their part in the Confederate Wars of the 1640s, the O’Carrolls forfeited the property and in 1669 it was granted by the English government to Charles Minchin, a soldier who had risen to the rank of Colonel in the Parliamentary army. Shortly before his death in 1681, Colonel Minchin bought a second property not far away, Ballinakill Castle, County Tipperary which had also begun as a tower house, this time built by the Butlers. The Minchins sold Ballinakill in 1760 and it is now a ruin, but they remained at Busherstown until 1973.
As mentioned, Busherstown appears to have originated as a tower house and at some date in the 18th century, perhaps following a fire in 1764, a new residence was added to the south end of the older building. This plain, three-bay, two-storey extension is clearly visible, the centre breakfront presumably once serving as an entrance; the room behind is much smaller than those on either side, indicating it was a hallway giving access to reception rooms. In the early 19th century, when the property was owned by George Minchin, further alterations to the property were made, not least the addition of a castellated entrance front, which was now moved to the west side. This features a round tower with hood mouldings at one end, and a bow-ended square tower at the other, the latter containing a porch through which one enters the building. Internally, little effort was made to continue the facade’s pseudo-Gothic decoration. What had probably been a dining room in the 18th century house was turned into a large hall, with the room behind it (formerly the entrance hall) becoming an ante chamber for the drawing room beyond. Behind this space is a curious wedge, thinner at the west than the east end, into which was inserted a staircase leading to bedrooms upstairs; a further extension beyond to the west leads gives access to a splendid stableyard. The quirky, provincial character of Busherstown means the house possesses an exceptional charm, helped by the mature and well-planted parkland in which it sits. After being sold by Richard Minchin in 1973, the property was owned by the Rudd family until they in turn disposed of Busherstown in 2011 after which it sat empty for some years until being bought more recently by the present owner who is gradually, and sympathetically, restoring the house.
Newbliss House, County Monaghan, photograph by Robert French, (between ca. 1865-1914), Lawrence Photograph Collection, National Library of Ireland.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London. p. 223. (Murray-Ker/LGI1912) A two storey early C19 Classical house with an eaved roof on a bracket cornice. Five bay entrance front, breakfront centre with Wyatt window in upper storey and enclosed Grecian porch with two Ionic columns and acroteria. Seven bay garden front, the three outer bays on either side forming shallow curved bows.”
https://archiseek.com/2014/1814-newbliss-house-newbliss-co-monaghan/ 1814 – Newbliss House, Newbliss, Co. Monaghan An early 19th century house of two storeys with a five bay main front. The enclosed porch features two Ionic columns. Owned by the Ker family who largely developed the village of Newbliss, and by 1800 the linen trade was thriving here. The garden frontage was of seven bays, the two outermost having shallow bows. Demolished in 1940s.
https://www.geni.com/projects/Historic-Buildings-of-County-Monaghan/29819 Newbliss House An early 19th century house of two storeys with a five bay main front. The enclosed porch features two Ionic columns. Owned by the Ker family who largely developed the village of Newbliss, where by 1800 the linen trade was thriving. The garden frontage was of seven bays, the two outermost having shallow bows. Demolished in 1940s.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 191. “(Hanbury-Tenison/IFR) A two storey house in the manner of Francis Johnston, rebuilt after the previous house was destroyed by fire 1795. Three bay front, centre bay breaking forward slightly; eaved roof. Shallow porch with coupled Doric columns; fanlight over doorway and sidelights. On either side of the porch, a Wyatt window under a shallow relieving arch. Central dormer with oval Adamesque fan panel between two windows. Two storey wings, set back. Stable yard behind house.”
Lough Bawn, County Monaghan, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.
Complex-plan country house, built c.1815, incorporating earlier house and with further blocks added. Three-bay two-storey over basement entrance block incorporating earlier house of c.1760 to rear (west) elevation, having single-bay three-storey over raised basement return to middle of rear with one-bay one and two-storey bay to south side of return, three-bay south and four-bay side elevations to entrance block, and with lower blocks to north-west and south-west corners, four-bay to former with single-bay projection to front re-entrant corner, and three-bay to latter. Courtyard of outbuildings to rear of house. Shallow projecting breakfront to front (east) elevation. Hipped slate roofs, pitched to west end of north elevation, with rendered chimneystacks having string course and clay pots, moulded eaves brackets and cast-iron rainwater goods. Flat-roofed dormer window to front pitch. Dressed stone bell-cote to west end wall of south-western block. Roughcast rendered walls having render plinth course and quoins. One round-headed window to rear elevation of entrance blcok and of north-west block, with six-over-six pane and three-over-six pane timber sliding sash windows. Windows elsewhere are square-headed, six-over-six pane to front elevation, to north-west block, ground floor of south-west block and most of rear elevations, and three-over-three pane to first floor of south elevation of entrance block and south-west block. Two margined timber casement windows to ground floor of side elevations of entrance block. Ground floor windows of entrance block re tripartite and set within segmental-headed recessed openings, Bull’s-eye window with render surround and timber framed window to first floor of north elevation of entrance block. Some cast-iron railings to windows to north elevation. Dormer window comprises two three-over-three pane windows flanking recessed moulded panel having oval patera. Masonry sills throughout. Doric-style pediment added to front c.1950, comprising paired render engaged columns supporting entablature. Elliptical-headed door opening with timber panelled door and margeined sidelights, openings flanked by fluted engaged pilasters supporting entablature, petal fanlight with moulded render surround, approached by concrete platform and three steps. Round-headed door opening to south elevation, having timber panelled door and fanlight with Y-tracery, opening onto stone steps. Gardens around house, bounded by rubble stone walls with garden gate. Extensive lawned grounds to site. Lodge, bridge, boathouse and well to grounds, near house.
Appraisal
This elegantly-proportioned country house has been substantially enlarged over the years, much of the original house having been destroyed by fire in the late eighteenth century. Architectural quality and design are apparent in the form and fabric of the house, notably in the variety of fenestration. It retains much of its early fabric, both internally and externally. The survival of attendant outbuildings, walled garden, boat house and limekiln provide contextual interest. The demesne landscape was planned so as to provide pleasing sweeping vistas both to and from the house, as it is sited overlooking two lakes, and within view of a number of churches, and is a good example of early landscaping.
Attached L-plan multiple-bay two-storey outbuildings, built c.1790, comprising seven-bay range to west boundary having integral carriage arch, and seven-bay range to north range, around courtyard to rear (west) of house, having hipped slate roofs with rendered chimneystacks and replacement rainwater goods, roughcast rendered walls, with rubble stone visible to rear (west) elevation, square-headed openings to first floor having masonry sills, mixed three-over-three-pane timber sliding sash windows, timber louvered vents, and timber battened shutters, square-headed window openings to ground floor with masonry sills and mixed timber battened shutters and timber sliding sash windows having four-over-four panes or six-over-six panes, square-headed door openings having glazed over-lights and double-leaf timber battened doors, segmental-headed carriage arches with dressed stone surrounds, keystones, double-leaf timber battened doors and glazed over-lights, ans segmental-headed integral carriage arch to west range having dressed stone surround, and with red brick to interior walls. Timber stalls and tack room fittings remain to interior. Gauged red brick surrounds to openings to west elevation of west range. Detached four-bay two-storey outbuilding to rear of courtyard, having external staircase to front (south) elevation, hipped tiled roof with red brick chimneystacks and roof-lights, rubble stone walls, square-headed window openings, some having gauged brick surrounds, with masonry sills and six-over-six pane timber sliding sash windows, square-headed pitching door at first floor level to front elevation with gauged red brick surround and timber panelled double-leaf door, square-headed door openings to ground floor, elliptical-headed carriage arches to north elevation. Red brick vaulted ceiling to interior. Rubble stone boundary wall to north, having segmental carriage arch. Single-storey three-bay outbuilding to north of complex, having projecting end bay with catslide roof to front elevation, and with single-storey two-bay outbuilding attached to gable, with hipped slate roof having red brick eaves course, terracotta ridge tiles and red brick chimneystack and clay pot, rubble stone walls with squared quoins, and square-headed door openings to front (east) elevation having red brick voussoirs. Vestiges of cobbles to yard. South of stable yard enclosed by rendered wall. Double-leaf timber battened gate flanked by square-profile dressed stone piers having moulded string courses and ball finials.
Appraisal
The stable yard of Loughbawn House is a fine example of planned outbuildings associated with demesne landscapes in Ireland and reflects the wider planning of the demesne landscape as a whole. It is elegantly proportioned and neatly laid out, comprising an L-plan range surrounding a cobbled yard, with additional buildings forming an outer yard to the rear. Much of the original form and fabric is retained, notably original timber fittings to the interior, which provides rare contextual interest. Features such as dressed stone surrounds attest to the employment of skilled craftsmanship in the construction of these outbuildings, which make an important contribution to the architectural heritage of the region.
Lough Bawn, County Monaghan, photograph courtesy of National Inventory.
Detached seven-bay two-storey neo-Elizabethan style house with dormer attic, c.1904, incorporating fabric of earlier house. Single-bay two-storey sandstone built canted projecting bay to centre, single-bay single-storey gabled projecting end bay to left. Single-storey flat-roofed extension to rear, c.1980. Partly refenestrated, c.1990. ROOF: Double-pitched and gable-fronted; red clay tiles; red clay ridge tiles; pebble dashed chimney stacks; red clay pots; overhanging timber eaves; cast-iron rainwater goods; flat-roof to projecting canted bay having consoled sandstone canopy over entrance; flat-roof to return. WALLS: Pebble dashed; unpainted; sandstone ashlar to canted projecting bay; sandstone ashlar to ground floor rear elevation. OPENINGS: Square-headed; cut-sandstone surrounds to ground floor; nap rendered surrounds to first floor; leaded timber fixed-pane and casement windows; some replacement uPVC windows; elliptical-headed door opening; diocletian windows to part of dormer attic; timber panelled door.
Seamount House, Seamount Road, Malahide, Co Dublin for sale July 2025 courtesy Sherry Fitzgerald
K36W718
€6,000,000
10 Bed6 Bath660 m²
Seamount House – Perched at the summit of Seamount Hill, Seamount House is a truly remarkable detached residence that combines rich historical heritage with timeless architectural beauty. Set within approximately 1.78 H/A (4.4 acres) of mature, landscaped grounds, this impressive home dates back to circa 1816, originally conceived as a summer retreat for the prominent Talbot de Malahide Estate. Its elegant Neo-Elizabethan design and commanding presence reflect its prestigious origins. From the 1890s to the 1940s, it was home to the illustrious Jameson family, and the property underwent a significant rebuild in 1905, preserving its grand character while incorporating the finest craftsmanship of its time. Designed to be both a luxurious haven and a prestigious residence, Seamount House embodies the grace and refinement of a bygone era. The three-storey, seven-bay façade speaks to a time when architecture was expressive and bold, with every detail carefully considered. The residence was crafted not merely as a home, but as a refined destination—a place of comfort and distinction overlooking the coastline. An Elevated Setting with Breathtaking Views Accessed via secure electronic entrance gates and a meandering private driveway, the property sits high above the surrounding landscape, offering an extraordinary level of privacy and seclusion. The grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring sweeping lawns, mature trees, and sheltered gardens. Pedestrian access from the estate leads directly to Sea park Hill and the picturesque shoreline below, placing nature and coastal serenity right at your doorstep. Panoramic vistas unfold from nearly every corner of the estate, offering dramatic views to the south across Dublin Bay and the city skyline toward the Sugar Loaf Mountains. To the east, the view extends along the scenic Malahide coastline, while to the west, one can glimpse Dublin Airport and the expansive rural hinterlands. The grounds also include a substantial original stone outbuilding, a gravelled courtyard, and a charming arched entrance to the rear, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional value of the estate. A Home of Character and Comfort On entering Seamount House, visitors are immediately struck by its sense of grandeur and refined elegance. The home has been lovingly preserved and sympathetically maintained by its current owners, ensuring that the spirit of its historical origins remains intact. Many original period features have been retained, including ornate cornicing, timber panelling, intricate fireplaces, and sash windows, creating a living environment that is rich in detail and history. The interiors are characterised by high ceilings, light-filled spaces, and an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality. A generous reception hall sets the tone for the rest of the house, leading into five substantial reception rooms on the ground floor—each offering spectacular views southward over the city and bay. These formal and informal spaces provide ample room for both entertaining and family life. A charming breakfast room connects to a well-appointed kitchen, and further accommodation includes a private study, guest WC, washroom, utility room, and a walk-in freezer room. Just off the kitchen lies a secluded courtyard—an ideal retreat for outdoor dining or morning coffee. Elegant Private Quarters with Unrivalled Views An original staircase with carved balustrade leads to the first floor, where a stunning stained-glass window—featuring the Jameson family crest—floods the landing with coloured light. This level hosts five generous bedrooms, including the principal suite, which boasts a bay window that frames sweeping views across the coastline. A recently installed, modern shower room adds contemporary comfort to the historic setting, while an additional WC completes the floor. The rear staircase provides discrete access to the upper level. The second floor, once the staff quarters, is now thoughtfully repurposed for modern living. A large open plan landing currently functions as a home gym, with four additional bedrooms, a separate shower room, and attic storage completing the accommodation. This floor offers flexible space that can easily adapt to a variety of lifestyle needs—be it for guests, family, hobbies, or home working. An Exceptional Opportunity in a Prestigious Coastal Location Seamount House represents a unique and generational opportunity to acquire one of North Dublin’s most historically significant and architecturally outstanding private residences. Its location is second to none—just a short distance from the vibrant centre of Malahide Village, where an abundance of amenities awaits. Residents can enjoy fine dining, boutique shopping, quality schools, and a host of recreational facilities, including sailing, golf, tennis, and more. The scenic coastline offers endless opportunities for walking and water sports, while the magnificent Malahide Castle and its 300-acre demesne provide woodland trails, ornamental gardens, and a historic setting for leisure and community events. With convenient access to Dublin Airport and excellent transport links to the city, Seamount House combines the tranquillity of a private coastal estate with the connectivity and convenience of urban living. This is not just a home—it is a legacy. A place where history, beauty, and lifestyle converge in perfect harmony. • Dublin City Centre circa 16km away • Dublin Airport circa 8KM • M50/M1 Motorway and Port Tunnel circa 7.5km Seamount House is rich in history and perfectly presented with classical style and timeless elegance. GROUND FLOOR Reception Hall 3.61m x 3.16m. Original black and white tiled floors with ornate ceiling coving, original door CEILING HEIGHT- 3.0M Archway to Open Closet 2.13m x 1.36m Comms Room 2.16m x 1.02m Washroom 2.38m x 1.63m. Original black and white tiled floor, Burlington wash hand basin, taps and finishes, angles picture window Guest WC 2.41m x 0.91m. WC , angled picture window and original black and white tiled floor Sitting Room 6.08m x 4.46m. Adam style fireplace, feature wall panelling, ornate hand painted ceiling, maple hardwood floor, large south facing bay window with magnificent views from Howths head to sugar loaf, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport BAY WINDOW- 2.79M X 0.66M Recess to Stairs 2.09m x 0.98m Drawing Room 10.50m x 4.85m. Polished maple hardwood floor, dual aspect windows, arched fireplace with marble fireplace with brass insert and raised basket, double north facing windows, large south facing bay window with magnificent views from Howths head to sugar loaf, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport, ornate ceiling coving BAY WINDOW- 4.07M X 1.70M ARCHED FIREPLACE- 3.03M X 1.24M Original Entrance Hall 1.37m x 1.13m Dining Room 6.89m x 4.56m. Marble fireplace with brass insert, large south facing bay window, arched recess, parquet flooring, coving on ceiling with ornate centre piece ARCHED RECCESS- 2.11M X 0.44M BAY WINDOW- 3.94M X 0.60M Inner Hall 11.5m x 1.17m Freezer Room 2.19m x 1.29m. Fridge freezer storage space with original red quarry tile floors, wall panelling Utility Room 3.64m x 1.64m. Floor to ceiling fitted storage units with Korean countertops, 1.5 sink units, picture window, original red quarry tile flooring Study 3.75m x 2.73m. Floor to ceiling height fitted cabinets, bespoke fitted shelving, ceiling coving and original red quarry tile floors Breakfast Room 5.67m x 3.76m. Large east facing picture window, ceiling coving with ornate centre pieces, built in shelving units, arched recess with fireplace, original red quarry tile floor ARCHED FIREPLACE- 1.34M X 0.54M Kitchen 4.82m x 4.60m. Exposed beams on ceiling, diamond red quarry floor, classic 90’s oven with bespoke cabinets and Korean countertops, sink unit, central island, door to courtyard Television Room 4.75m x 3.61m. Electric fireplace, built in shelving units, wall panelling, coving on ceiling with ornate centrepiece, polished pine hardwood floor, guest wc off, double patio doors to south facing sun room Guest WC 1.93m x 1.0m. Fully tiled, WHB, WC Sun Room 7.67m x 2.52m. Tiled floor, feature wall panelling, large picture windows to south, east and west, double patio doors leading to south facing rear gardens Rear Hall to Staff Staircase 2.86m x 1.94m FIRST FLOOR Main Landing 5.32m x 4.45m. Impressive open landing with feature stained glass windows with original Jameson crest, ornate arches with detailed coving overlooking staircase, detailed ceiling coving Principal Bathroom 3.67m x 2.98m. South facing picture window with magnificent views from Howth Head to Sugar Loaf mountain, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport Principal Bedroom 6.80m x 5.00m. Large south facing picture window with magnificent views from Howth Head to the Sugar Loaf mountain, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport CEILING HEIGHT- 2.89M OVAL BAY WINDOW- 3.24M X 1.15M MAIN BAY WINDOW- 5.00M X 3.00M Bedroom 4 4.97m x 3.73m. West facing picture window, hand wash basin , carpet flooring Middle Hall 10m – 1.17m. Stairs to former staff quarters Bedroom 2 6.89m x 4.64m. East facing picture window with magnificent views from Howth Head to the Sugar Loaf mountain, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport, carpet flooring, built in wardrobes and ceiling coving Bedroom 3 5.91m x 3.87m. East facing picture window with magnificent views from Howth Head to the Sugar Loaf mountain, Dublin mountains, Dublin city and Dublin airport, carpet flooring, built in wardrobes, ceiling coving and north facing window Hall to Bathrooms 2.5m x 1.16m Bathroom 2.91m x 2.52m. Fully tiled bathroom comprising bath with Mira Elite shower, wash hand basin, wc and picture window Inner Hall 1.1m x 0.95m. Carpet with hotpress and linen storage Shower Room 3.26m 2.65m. Newly tiled with walk in open rainfall shower and floating wash hand basin Bedroom 5 3.44m x 2.35m. Picture window, carpet flooring Rear Stairs Landing 3.85m x 2.06m WC 2.0m x 1.13m. Fully tiled, WHB, WC, frosted picture window Bedroom 6 5.90m x 3.87m. Spacious bedroom with coastal views UPPER FLOOR-FORMER STAFF QUARTERS Landing / Gym 4.76m x 3.89m. Large double glazed picture window, carpet flooring Bedroom 7 5.06m x 4.39m. Large South facing picture window overlooking Howth Head to Dublin city, Sugar loaf mountain, Dublin mountains and Dublin airport, hotpress and built in wardrobe Bedroom 8 3.50m x 3.15m. Large south facing picture window overlooking Howth Head to Dublin city, Sugar loaf mountain, Dublin mountains and Dublin airport, built in wardrobe and shelfing units Inner Hall (Left Side) 2.29m x 0.88m. Carpet flooring with access to bedrooms and shower room Bedroom 9 4.97m x 2.94m. Arched picture window, carpet flooring Inner Hall (Right Side) 3.60m x 1.0m. Carpet Flooring Shower/ Wc 2.28m x 2.19m. Shower , w/c Bedroom 10 3.86m x 3.40m. Arched picture window with arched doorway to attic storage area Attic Storage 3.85m x 3.0m
A SECLUDED ESTATE OF TIMELESS ELEGANCE, SET ON APPROXIMATELY 97.22 HECTARES (240 ACRES) OF PICTURESQUE IRISH COUNTRYSIDE WITH APPROX. 1.65KM OF FRONTAGE ONTO THE RIVER NORE. FEATURING A HISTORIC MAIN RESIDENCE, A CHARMING GATE LODGE, STABLES, WOODLANDS, AND LUSH PASTURES, THE ESTATE ALSO BOASTS A WALLED GARDEN. ITS PEACEFUL WOODLAND DRIVE ENSURES COMPLETE PRIVACY AND TRANQUILITY, WHILE BEING IDEALLY LOCATED NEAR THOMASTOWN AND INISTIOGE.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Approx 97.22 hectares (240 acres) of grazing pasture and expansive woodlands
Historic Georgian country home at the focal point of the Estate
Charming two-bedroom lodge at the estate entrance
A dedicated estate workers’ “village”, with potential for conversion into additional living accommodation,
subject to planning permission
Historic stables and courtyard
Scenic views along the river Nore and access to woodland trails
Conveniently situated close to Thomastown and Inistioge
Requires updated heating system
Period features throughout to include original fireplaces and timber sash windows
TRULY EXCEPTIONAL ESTATE
Dysertmore stands as a testament to timeless elegance and complete privacy and tranquility set on approx. 97.22 Hectares (240 acres) of the most picturesque landscape Ireland has to offer. Overlooking the waters of the River Nore, the estate’s sense of history and natural beauty combine to create a property that is not only a residence but a true sanctuary. The privacy afforded by its long, private wood-land driveway ensures peace and tranquillity while maintaining close proximity to cultural hubs like Thomastown and Inistioge, offering a perfect balance between seclusion and community life. As you approach the estate, the drive leads to the Gate Lodge on the right, followed by a set of gates continuing along the main drive. A crossroad to the right brings you to an old estate workers’ “village”, which holds potential for conversion into additional living accommodation, subject to planning permission. To the left, the drive takes you past the side of the house and yard, while continuing straight leads to the impressive front gates, showcasing the historic grandeur of Dysertmore. This estate offers a truly rare opportunity to acquire a property of such significance, privacy and beauty.
MAIN RESIDENCE
Dating back to circa 1815, the main residence at Dysertmore spans an impressive 1,002.5 sq.m (10,791 sq.ft) approx. of grandeur and historical charm at every turn. Upon entering, one is greeted by a grand and gracious entrance hall with impressive double front doors with fanlight, which leads into the magnificent staircase hall, the true heart of the home. This stately area sets the tone for the rest of the house, offering an inviting blend of elegance and scale. The ground floor boasts a series of refined living spaces, including a beautiful drawing room, an expansive library, a formal dining room, an office, and a fitted kitchen with oil fired aga, perfect for both day-to-day living and hosting large gatherings. The residence is rich in period details that add timeless beauty, such as original timber sash windows, intricate cornicing, and original fireplaces.
Upstairs, the home offers eight spacious and light-filled bedrooms, each with their own character, along with two bathrooms. The upper floor also includes a private study, ideal for a home office, all the while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding gardens and the countryside.
Beneath the main floors, the basement provides practical spaces, including a wine cellar and additional storage rooms, offering functional utility while maintaining the home’s historic charm. The attached staff annex provides flexibility and convenience, allowing for seamless management of the estate or additional guest accommodation.
While Dysertmore radiates historic grandeur and the structure has been continually maintained and is in very good condition, the property does require some modernisation, including a new heating system, to bring it in line with modern living standards.
GARDENS & GROUNDS
Dysertmore’s meticulously manicured gardens are one of the estate’s most stunning features. The private gardens attached to each residence on the estate provide an oasis of calm. The gardens to the front of the main house were laid out by Margeurite Solly-Flood who was also responsible for designing the gardens at Mount Juliet Estate. The main gardens feature a variety of plant species, mature trees, and thoughtfully landscaped areas, creating an enchanting environment for leisurely strolls or outdoor entertaining. The estate also includes a walled garden, ideal for those who wish to cultivate their own plants, flowers, or fruit and vegetables. These lush surroundings, paired with the peace and seclusion of the estate, offer a true sanctuary for those seeking a retreat from modern life. A short walk from the main residence, the estate’s stable block and courtyard reflect Dysertmore’s agricultural and equestrian heritage. Part built from traditional stone and featuring period details, the stables have been meticulously maintained, offering both functionality and charm. The stable block which houses 14 stables could be repurposed for modern use, such as a workshop or studio.
GATE LODGE
Upon entering the estate, a secluded driveway leads you to the charming Gate Lodge, a structure dating back to the mid19th century. This two-bedroom lodge serves as a welcoming entrance to Dysertmore. The Gate Lodge, with its stone façade and period features, offers additional accommodation options, perfect for staff, guests, or even as a potential rental property. The setting of the Gate Lodge provides a sense of privacy and seclusion, while still being close to the main residence. Its picturesque positioning, surrounded by trees and gardens, makes it an inviting entrance that offers a glimpse into the elegance of the estate beyond.
PASTURE & WOODLAND
Approx. 45.5 hectares/ 112.43 acres of the estate are in grazing lands, while the remainder is principally mature woodland with some fine specimen trees. Dysertmore is as much a haven for nature as it is for people. The rich grazing pastures are perfect for agricultural use or keeping livestock, while the surrounding woodlands enhance the estate’s tranquillity and offer complete privacy. These woodlands are crisscrossed by scenic walking trails, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of this estate. A picturesque pathway lined with wild garlic leads down to the banks of the River Nore, offering breathtaking views up river towards Inistioge from the estate’s private quay, a perfect spot for a beach side picnic. The estate’s woodlands are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, contributing to the natural beauty and biodiversity of the property. This landscape offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, or hacking horses.
THE RIVER NORE
The property boasts approx. 1.65km of frontage onto the scenic River Nore, offering stunning views up river to Inistioge and direct access to the riverbank. There are no fishing rights associated with this section of the river.
LOCATION
The location of Dysertmore is truly exceptional, offering easy access to some of Ireland’s most beautiful and culturally rich areas. Situated near Inistioge, Thomastown, Kilkenny, Waterford, and Wexford, and approximately one hour & 55 minutes from Dublin Airport, it serves as an ideal base for exploring the southeast of Ireland. Whether for day trips or weekend getaways, the surrounding towns and cities offer a wealth of attractions, making Dysertmore a perfect hub. Located approximately 21.1 kilometres from Dysertmore, is Mount Juliet Estate, an iconic destination known for its rich heritage, tranquil surroundings and renowned for its world-class golf course. The property is also just twenty minutes from the picturesque village of Thomastown, which is celebrated for its vibrant craft and culinary scene. Moreover, Kilkenny City, located just forty minutes away, offers a variety of excellent dining options, including the Michelin-starred restaurant, Campagne. Kilkenny is also home to renowned cultural institutions like the Butler Gallery and the internationally acclaimed Kilkenny Arts Festival, ensuring a rich cultural life for residents and visitors alike.
For those seeking convenience, Dysertmore’s proximity to the M9 motorway provides quick access to Ireland’s motorway network, making it just under two hours from both Dublin City Centre and Dublin Airport, offering easy connections to the rest of the country and beyond.
LAND USE BREAKDOWN
Grassland: Area approx. 45.5 hectares/ 112.43 acres Residential/ Developed: Area approx. 1.6 hectares/ 3.95 acres Woodland: Area approx. 48.8 hectares/ 120.58 acres Other: Area approx. 0.4 hectares/ 0.98 acres Right of way: Highlighted on map Total Area: Approx 97.22 hectares/ 240 acres.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 104. “A two storey late-Georgian house; three bay front, with ground floor windows set in arched recesses; four bay side. Oval staircase. In 1814, the residence of James Hamilton.”
Not in National Inventory
Record of Protected Structures:
Townland: Staffordstown
Detached three-bay two-storey house, c.1820, with wide bracketed eaves, outbuildings and entrance gates.
Dolly’s Grove stands about four miles from Dunboyne, on the Maynooth side of the village. Also known as Staffordstown, Dolly’s Grove, is a two storey late Georgian house and has an oval staircase. The house may be dated to the 1820s or slightly earlier. The house has a neo-classical gateway and in modern times its own private airstrip.
The house is associated with the Hamilton and Gaisford families. In 1809 Dolly’s Grove was the residence of Christopher Robinson. In 1814 James Hamilton was living there. One of the Hamilton’s had the public roadway re-routed away from the house. In 1837 Dolly’s Grove was described as is a gentleman’s seat with an extensive demesne and some ornamental ground. The townland was in the ownership of Mr. Hamilton
John William Gaisford settled at Dolly’s Grove in the 1850s. The Gaisford family originated at Bulkington, Wiltshire with the earliest record of the family being in 1302. The Gaisfords were the local squires and made their money from land and wool.
John was the second son of Thomas Gaisford, Dean of Christ Church, Oxford. Thomas Gaisford became professor of Greek at Oxford in 1811 and then became a clergyman there. He was Dean of Christ Church from 1831 until his death. Thomas was curator of the Bodleian Library and principle delegate of Oxford University Press. In 1843 his 21 year old son, William, drowned while swimming in the Thames.
John William Gaisford purchased a commission in the 72nd Highlanders and served with them for twenty four years. He commanded the regiment for a few months during the Crimean War before selling his commission in 1855 and retiring to Ireland. He married Mary Jane Vaughan, daughter of Dean Cotton, Dean of Lismore, a family associated with India. He had three sons, Cecil Henry who was killed in the Afghan War; Douglas, Colonel of the South Wales Borderers and Algernon, Lieut. Seaforth Highlanders and two daughters; Lady Sandeman, wife of the late Sir. R.G. Sandeman died 1912 and Mabel. There was also a step-daughter, Miss Montizambert. In 1876- Lieut.-Col. Gaisford of The Grove, Dunboyne held 113 acres in County Meath. In 1882 Helen Kate, daughter of Lieutenant Colonel John William Gaisford married as his second wife, Sir Robert Groves Sandeman, an officer in the Indian army and administrator. In 1878 he was appointed the governor-general in Baluchistan. John William Gaisford died in 1889 and was buried in Dunboyne churchyard.
Colonel Douglas Gaisford married Esme, daughter of General Sir Archibald Alison. Their children were John William, Robert Sandeman and Jane Esme. Douglas retired from the Army as a major in 1901. John William Gaisford, joined the Royal Artillery in 1914, was wounded Gallipoli but survived the war. He served in World War II primarily in East Africa and the Middle East. After the end of the war he retired at the rank of brigadier and settled in America. His brother, Robert Sandeman Gaisford, became a Captain in the Royal Flying Corps. He was killed over enemy lines, Italy, when engaged with four hostile machines in January 1918. The aeroplane was shot down in flames by Austro-Hungarian anti-aircraft fire over the Piave Sector of the Italian Front. A message was dropped from an Austro-Hungarian aeroplane to let his comrades know that the plane had been shot down and that the casualties had been buried with military honours. This act shows how in some case the First World War was treated as a war between gentlemen. Douglas Gaisford died about 1940.
About 1990 Dolly’s Grove became home to Conor and Pat Crowley. They developed a stud farm at the property. Conor was a businessman and Pat a fashion designer. Pat Crowley studied fashion design with the Grafton Academy in Dublin. In 1968, she launched her own range of knitted and crocheted fashions. In the early seventies, Pat employed six hundred knitters, dotted around the country. Pat Crowley used Carrickmacross lace in her designs. She dressed many women in Irish society and counted the Kennedy women in America among her clients. In 2001 Dolly’s Grove was sold for £3.35 million by the Crowley family.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 241. “(Ruxton/LFI1912; Fortescue, sub Fortescue-Brickdale/LG1972; and Carlingford, B/PB 1898) A three storey late C18 house of red brick, built for the Parkinson family. Front with two bay centre. and end bays breaking forward slightly; end bays with Wyatt windows in their upper storeys and large tripartite windows below. On one side a single storey C19 bow. C19 eaved roof. Inherited at the beginning of C19 by W.P. Ruxton, MP, whose mother was Elizabeth, daughter and heiress of Robert Parkinson; and by whom it was devised to his wife’s nephew, the politician Chichester Fortescue, 1st and last Lord Carlingford, of Ravensdale Park, in the same county.”
Red House, County Louth, courtesy National Inventory.Red House, County Louth, courtesy National Inventory.
Detached five-bay three-storey house, built c. 1810, attached to early eighteenth century house to north, now forming three-storey wing. Semi-octagonal single-storey porch projecting from centre of east elevation; four-bay south elevation, end bays breaking slightly forward, single-storey flat-roofed bow window to east; two-storey hipped roof return in angle between north and west elevations; kitchen garden to north-west; single-storey lean-to return in angle between two-storey return and west elevation; three-storey pitched roof north wing; swimming pool with lean-to perspex roof to north of kitchen garden; pitched roof range of garden buildings to west of kitchen garden. Hipped slate roof to main house, clay ridge and hip tiles, brick chimneystacks with projecting string courses and yellow cylindrical pots, cast-iron gutters on painted timber projecting eaves with fascia and deep soffit carried on paired wooden brackets; pitched slate roof to north wing, clay ridge tiles, brick chimneystacks with projecting strings and octagonal pots, cast-iron gutters on painted timber fascia. Brick walling to east and south elevations of main house, rubble stone section to north-east corner, painted smooth rendered frieze below eaves, painted roughcast to west gable, rubble stone to north elevation, painted brick to two-storey and single-storey returns, unpainted roughcast to west elevation north leg; painted roughcast rendered walling to north wing. Square-headed window openings, brick arches to ground and first floor windows, dressed stone sills, painted timber six-over-six sliding sash windows to ground and first floor east elevation, three-over-three to second floor; south elevation tripartite ground floor window to west, eight-over-eight flanked by four-over-four tripartite windows to first floor breakfronts, six-over-six flanked by two-over-two with moulded timber mullions to cases, similar at second floor; French windows to centre and bow window to south elevation; square-headed window openings to north wing, smooth plastered reveals and soffits, dressed stone sills, painted timber side-hung casement windows. Semi-octagonal verandah porch with pitched slate roof, lead-capped hips, oval cupola with plain glazing, cast-iron gutters, painted ruled-and-lined smooth rendered walling, outer timber columns, tooled Tuscan painted stone doorcase with flat entablature, painted timber door with four panels below lock rail and four glazed above, oval sunburst fanlight. Stone steps to first floor entrance to north wing, painted timber door with four glazed panels, projecting canopy to porch. Steps descending to lawn to south; wooded area to north; walled garden to west of kitchen garden, red brick north wall, rubble stone south wall. Stableyard to south-west; two-storey north range, crenellated central breakfront, octagonal cupola, rubble stone walling with red brick dressings, painted timber sliding sash windows, painted timber doors; symmetrical west range, three-bay two-storey pavilions to north and south, single-storey arcade with six segmental-headed arches between pavilions, hipped slate roofs, rubble stone walls with red brick dressings; stone piers and wrought-iron gate to east; single-storey lean-to slate-roofed shed to west of stableyard north range, rubble stone walls, brick dressings, segmental-headed openings. Three-bay single-storey hipped roof gate lodge to south-east, red brick corbelled chimneystack, saddle-back clay ridge and hip tiles, cast-iron gutters on overhanging painted timber eaves with single modillions (similar to main house), painted smooth rendered walling, painted timber tripartite sliding sash windows two-over-two panes to centre one-over-one to either side, painted timber vertically-sheeted half-door; unpainted smooth rendered octagonal gate piers, wrought-iron lattice gates.
Appraisal
This magnificent house was built by William Parkinson Ruxton of Ardee House on his inheritance of the property in 1806. The semi-octagonal verandah porch is a most unusual feature, the glazed cupola and stone doorcase of which exhibit particularly fine workmanship. Many other elements are also worthy of note including well executed brickwork, the oversailing eaves and excellent window detailing. The earlier late seventeenth, early eighteenth century house, now incorporated as a wing, is of much significance in its own right. The ensemble includes a walled garden and a superb stable yard which, in itself, is of considerable interest.
Red House, County Louth, courtesy National Inventory.
Casey, Christine and Alistair Rowan. The Buildings of Ireland: North Leinster. Penguin Books, London, 1993.
p. 120. “1.5km N on the Dundalk Road. An attractive miniature estate, sheltered from the road by a belt of woodland, with a large, three-storey house of Regency appearance attached to a tall thin wing. The wing, with small windows and broad areas of masonry, is said to be late C17 or early C18. The main block, with a shallow rood and wide projecting eaves, was built for William Parkinson Ruxton of Ardee House, who inherited the property in 1806. It is a substantial redbrick square, five bays on the front and four bays on the s side, with large tripartite windows and a square bay window added here at ground level. The entrance front has a polygonal porch after the manner of a cottage ornee. The early C19 stables on the side are screened by a castellated wall and have a central battlemented section.”
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London
p. 87. “Powell/LG1863) A single-storey early C19 house in the “cottage” style, with gables.”
The Irish Tourist Association surveyor writes in 1944 that the house was interesting as it was the remains of a very old Elizabethan house. He says that more than half the house was pulled down as it was unsafe “and the present eastern wing is a reconstruction”. Photograph from the Irish Tourist Association Survey 1943-44.
Detached four-bay two-storey house, built c. 1810, in a cottage style, incorporating considerable fabric from the eighteenth century. Pitched slate roof with gabled fronted projections. Casement windows with stone surrounds. Projecting porch. Tall chimneystacks set an an angle with some paired. Outbuildings to rear.
Appraisal
Clonshavoy House is an important house architecturally within County Limerick. The style chosen for this former Barrington family residence is significant. The cottage style was not often employed in houses in County Limerick and its survival is of architectural importance.
Mark Bence-Jones. A Guide to Irish Country Houses (originally published as Burke’s Guide to Country Houses volume 1 Ireland by Burke’s Peerage Ltd. 1978); Revised edition 1988 Constable and Company Ltd, London.
p. 170. “(Godley, Kilbracken/, B/PB) A two storey late-Georgian house, with a principal front of eight bays. Pedimented breakfront, with three windows in lower storey, emphasised by plain pilasters, which are also used to emphasise the slightly projecting end bays. End windows of facade, in lower storey, set in shallow arched recesses. Projecting porch in adjoining front; courtyard at back. Largely gutted by a fire a few years ago; afterwards rebuilt, the architect of the rebuilding being Mr Austin Dunphy.”
Killegar, County Leitrim, courtesy National Inventory.
Detached eight-bay two-storey country house, built in 1813, with basement level to rear elevation. Pitched slate roof with terracotta ridge tiles and ashlar chimneystacks. Two-bay pedimented breakfront to principal south-east-facing elevation with projecting end bays. Rendered walls with tooled stone string course to breakfront and end bays. Square-headed window openings with tooled limestone sills and timber sash windows, round-headed in blind arched openings in end bays. Derelict brick and cut stone entrance porch to north-east-facing side elevation with timber sash windows and timber panelled double door in flat-headed opening with decorative doorcase flanked by side lights. Round-headed door opening with timber and glazed door to garden elevation flanked by engaged Tuscan columns flanked by windows. Wrought-iron railings to basement. Plan altered c.1940 with the removal of two rooms. Fire in 1970 destroyed many of the principal rooms in the house. Pedimented multiple-bay two-storey outbuilding to cobbled yard. Limestone ashlar gate piers give access to rear yard.
Appraisal
Constructed to a Classical design, Killegar House is a fine country house. The building expresses noteworthy architectural motifs, including a pedimented breakfront, symmetrical fenestration and a Tuscan doorcase. Its split-levelled plan gives the house an unusual character, with its principal elevation now being accessed from the garden. Though damaged by fire and altered during recent decades, the house remains exemplary of early nineteenth-century demesne architecture. Located at the end of a long driveway, which winds through lakeland, Killegar House and its finely-executed, though ruinous, outbuildings are a significant part of County Leitrim’s architectural heritage.
Killegar, County Leitrim, courtesy National Inventory.Killegar, County Leitrim, courtesy National Inventory.Killegar, County Leitrim, courtesy National Inventory.Killegar, County Leitrim, courtesy National Inventory.
From a distance Killegar, County Leitrim looks quite splendid. The house is approached via a long and densely wooded drive, with occasional glimpses through trees and meadow of a slender lake, Lough Kilnemar. Finally the approach enters more open ground dropping down to the left and offering views across the parkland to Killegar itself, a building of two storeys and eight bays, the centre pair forming a pedimented breakfront with handsome engaged Tuscan doorcase flanked by windows. The house faces south-east, a sequence of terraces descending to the lake’s glistening surface. One understands how John Kilbracken (who died almost eight years ago) could write in 1955, ‘It’s easy to love Killegar, as I realised more than ever when I came here for the first time after my father’s death. I can imagine selling it when I’m in Portofino, or Manhattan, or Paris (and imagine the villa, penthouse or atelier I’ll buy instead)…’ But he never did so, his love for the place overwhelming any urge to make money from it (thus proving him a most unlikely Irishman). But the consequences of passion combined with penury grow all too apparent the closer one draws to the house.
As seen today, the greater part of Killegar dates from c.1813, the same year the estate’s then-owner John Godley married Catherine Daly, a daughter of Denis Daly of Dunsandle, County Galway and his wife Lady Henrietta Maxwell (for more on Dunsandle and its lost interiors, see Dun and Dusted, December 9th 2013). But there was an older property on at least part of the site built around 1750 and incorporated into the new house. This takes advantage of the sloping site to have two storeys at the front but effectively only one at the rear where a courtyard was created. As so often, the architect is unknown and indeed one may not have been employed since Killegar’s design was always relatively simple. One curiosity is that the principal entrance, having initially been placed at the centre of the garden elevation, was subsequently moved to one side where a large pedimented porch was added. Thus visitors to the house stepped not into the main hall but into a rather narrow passage from whence they moved to the small drawing room. This was the first of an enfilade of rooms running the length of the main block. Above them were the bedrooms with a wonderful prospect of Lough Kilnemar (otherwise known as House Lake) although the view from the passage to the rear was of the service yard.
The Godleys were the latest in a succession of owners of the land on which Killegar stands. For centuries this part of the country was under the control of the O’Rourke clan, but as part of the plantation policy in the 17th century they were dispossessed and in 1640 Charles I granted a large parcel of some 2,784 Irish acres to the Scottish settler Sir James Craig: this territory subsequently became known as Craigstown. However further generations of Craigs did not manage their Irish estates well. They appear to have been prone to bickering, fell into debt and in 1734 were declared bankrupt. Craigstown was accordingly put up for sale and bought for £5626, eight shillings and four pence by a Dublin merchant Richard Morgan who had made his money in textiles. Richard Morgan’s only daughter, Mary married the Rev Dr William Godley, a landless clergyman who was rector of Mullabrack, Co Armagh and whose father had also been a Dublin merchant and alderman. The Godleys had arrived in Ireland at some date in the 17th century, probably from Yorkshire. Killegar came into their ownership because although the estate was left by Richard Morgan to his son (also called Richard), the latter despite two marriages only had a single daughter who died while in her teens. And his only brother, William, a pupil and disciple of John Wesley (and an early Methodist) died in Dublin at the age of 20. So on the death of Richard Morgan the younger in 1784 there were no direct male heirs. The estate ought then to have passed to Mary Morgan’s eldest son, John Godley, a lawyer. However, despite his background the will was disputed and was only settled after twenty-six years of litigation in 1810. By then John Godley had died and so it was his son, another John Godley, who took possession of Killegar. It was he, hitherto a city merchant, who married Catherine Daly and decided to build the present house.
In addition to the main house, John Godley built a church, school and school-teacher’s house at Killegar, together with the two gate-lodges and eight other cottages on the estate before dying in 1863 at the age of eighty-eight. By this date his eldest son, John Robert Godley, had already died. The latter is generally deemed the founder of the Canterbury region of New Zealand, settled in the mid-19th century as a colony following the beliefs of the Church of England. He served as leader of the settlement that became the city of Christchurch but then returned to England where he died two years before his father. Therefore in 1863 Killegar passed to the next generation, John Arthur Godley, then in his teens and at school. A few years after leaving Oxford, he served as Assistant Private Secretary to the Prime Minister William Gladstone and in 1880 was appointed Commissioner for Inland Revenue, a position he held for the next two years. In 1883 he became Under-Secretary of State at the India Office, remaining there until his retirement in 1909 when he was raised to the peerage as Baron Kilbracken of Killegar. But of course, a career as a senior civil servant in London meant he had little time to spend on his estate in Ireland. Killegar was instead given on a long lease first to his uncle Archibald Godley and then in turn on his death in 1907 responsibility for running the place passed to Archibald Godley’s only child Anna who lived until 1955. As a result, Arthur Godley’s son Hugh, second Lord Kilbracken, never spent much time at Killegar, only bringing his own family to Ireland for the first time in 1927.
The first Lord Kilbracken had been a Liberal and, perhaps as a result of having worked for Gladstone, was fully supportive of tenants’ rights to buy the land they farmed. Unlike the great majority of Irish landlords, he encouraged the sale of his estate with the result that even before the passing of the Wyndham Act of 1903, all but Killegar’s home farms had passed out of family ownership.
While certainly admirable, an obvious consequence of Lord Kilbracken’s action was that it left subsequent generations of Godleys with limited income from land: thus the second Lord Kilbracken qualified as a barrister and, like his father before him, spent the greater part of his professional life in London, with only holidays at Killegar. Although he moved into the main house on his retirement in 1943, it was already apparent there were insufficient resources to sustain the place and so at the time of his death in 1950 Killegar and the remaining 420 acres, was on the market with two identical offers made of £8,000.
At the time of his father’s death, John Godley, third Lord Kilbracken was travelling overland to New Zealand to take part in celebrations marking the centenary of the foundation of Christchurch. Initially he was prepared to go ahead with the sale of Killegar but by the time he reached Sydney, Australia he had come to the conclusion that the estate ought to remain in the family, and the following year he came back to Ireland determined to take over responsibility for the place. Clearly although he never regretted this decision, it had consequences he could not have foretold.
John Kilbracken, journalist and bon viveur, was throughout the course of his long and hectic life the very embodiment of the impoverished Irish peer possessed of big house and small income. A man of exceptional intelligence and charm, his various books are to be recommended, not least for their ability to make sundry travails sound highly entertaining. For example, in Living like a Lord (1955) he devotes a chapter to recounting the story of how he almost came to play the part of Ishmael in John Huston’s Moby Dick, parts of which were filmed in the County Cork port town of Youghal. Typically, as a result of having amused Huston one night over dinner, he found himself caught up in a six-month maelstrom of screen tests and costume fittings before eventually being relegated to the part of an extra carrying a live pig onto a vessel. However, owing to technical issues the scene had to be re-shot with someone else as pig carrier. Thus he never made the final cut, although he did work as a supplementary script writer, for which – naturally in his narrative – he received no screen credit.
But in relation to Killegar perhaps the greatest challenge he had to face occurred in 1970 when the house was gutted by fire. A rebuilding programme followed, testament to his devotion, but sadly many of the contents were forever lost. he struggled on and since his death in 2006 Killegar has been occupied by his second wife Sue and their son Seán. As the pictures above indicate, it remains as much a battle as ever to keep the house from falling into desolation. With little land (and proportionately little income) Killegar is now at a turning point in its fortunes, the last big house in County Leitrim to remain in the hands of the original family – but for how much longer? There comes a moment when the struggle becomes overwhelming with an outcome insufficient to justify the effort. One feels Killegar is nearing that moment. It is on the brink, from which there can be no return.
‘So there she is for you: beautiful Killegar, happy Killegar, funny tumbling-down Killegar, waiting to open her seductive arms to me.’ John Kilbracken, 1920-2006.
Irish Historic Houses 
