Period Property For Sale: Cork

Castle Curious, Doonawanly, Castletownroche, Co. Cork
Historic ruin including a castle and a mill building in an idyllic setting of roughly an acre

Built in 1847 by local eccentric craftsman Johnny Roche, this aptly titled property occupies circa 1 acre of idyllic sylvan setting on the shores of the Awbeg River roughly 3 miles north of Castletownroche.

The building is steeped in history, which adds to its magical charm. Johnny was born in the 19th century at Wallstown near Castletownroche. It is believed that he laid the foundation for the castle in the summer of 1847, intending to use the castle as a workshop and a home, and wanting the castle to stand as a monument to himself.

The castle measured 27 feet long, 17 feet broad and 45 feet high. The ground floor was divided into three apartments; one was used as a Blacksmith's shop, another as a general workshop and the third does not seem to have been used for any particular purpose. A staircase led from the ground to the top of the southern turret, and Johnny often climbed up there to survey the countryside and to blow his horn. He constructed the castle entirely on his own, sourcing the sand from the Awbeg river and lime from Mallow.

Although both the castle and the mill building obviously require a lot of work and imagination, this is a really beautiful and peaceful setting. It would be a lot to take on and the last photo gives a glimpse of what was once here. To help with the costs conservation grant funding is available for the repair of a protected structure such as this.

Price: €160,000
Last update: 28th October 2011
Contact: Keane Mahony Smith
Tel.: +353 (0)83 3559123
Email: kfdlkms@gmail.com

Share

If you are the owner of a period property and would like to advertise it for sale on Former Glory please contact us with the details. Each listing includes a feature on our facebook page. Listings are for unlimited time, there are no renewal fees, and you can include several images. Estate agents please contact us for details of annual membership fees, which would entitle you to list unlimited period properties for sale.