Mid-19th Century Residence For Sale in Co. Meath

Ardsallagh House is a mid-19th Century Tudor revival residence set in a private and picturesque position just outside Navan, Co. Meath. Built c.1844 for the Duke of Bedford, it represents a rare opportunity to restore a house of architectural character and scale set on approx. 80.5 ha. (199 acres) of excellent agricultural land and mature grounds with river frontage along the Boyne.

Property
The property is approached via its main entrance at Bective Bridge, with a driveway leading through lands on either side, dotted with mature trees and creating an attractive sense of arrival. A gate lodge is positioned at the entrance, which will require restoration. There is also a separate secondary access located beside Boyne Hill House. The main residence stands centrally within its lands, enjoying a commanding outlook over its gardens and the surrounding countryside. To the rear lies a traditional courtyard framed by a range of stone outbuildings, accessed through substantial entrance piers. While now in need of complete refurbishment, these buildings offer significant potential for conversion to guest accommodation, leisure facilities or equestrian use, subject to planning permission. The presence of a walled garden adds an additional layer of charm and opportunity. The entirety forms a cohesive and highly appealing country estate in the heart of the Boyne Valley.

Special Features
– Important Tudor Revival residence dating from c.1844
– Approx. 80.5 HA. (199 acres) of excellent agricultural land and woodland.
– Strategically positioned right outside Navan and close proximity to the M3 motorway
– Designed and built for the Duke of Bedford
– Architecturally striking façade in dark limestone
– Grand reception rooms with original period detailing
– River frontage along the Boyne
– Traditional courtyard with range of outbuildings
– Walled garden with restoration potential
– Gate lodge at Bective Bridge entrance

Ardsallagh House
Ardsallagh House is a residence of considerable historical significance, with a lineage closely tied to some of the most prominent figures in British and Irish history. The estate came into the ownership of the Earls of Bedford in 1842, shortly after which the present house was constructed. In the years that followed, the property was also owned by a number of prominent Irish families up until recent times. Designed in the Tudor Revival style, it reflects the romantic architectural sensibilities of the mid-19th century, blending medieval influences with the craftsmanship and scale of the Victorian era.

The house was noted in contemporary accounts, including that of William Wilde in 1849, who remarked on its distinctive character and the use of dark limestone, lending the building a striking and somewhat sombre elegance. The estate later passed to Lord John Russell, twice Prime Minister of Britain, and subsequently to his descendants, most notably the philosopher Bertrand Russell, the third Earl and final member of the family to reside at Ardsallagh.

While the house retains many of its original architectural features, it now requires comprehensive refurbishment and restoration throughout. This presents a rare opportunity for a purchaser to revive and reimagine a property of such pedigree, restoring it to its former grandeur.

Internally, the accommodation is both extensive and impressive in scale. The entrance hall is a particularly fine feature, rising to double height with a vaulted ceiling, intricate plasterwork and a sweeping staircase leading to a gallery landing. A carved timber fireplace and classical detailing set the tone for the principal reception rooms, which include a drawing room and dining room, both benefiting from large bay windows overlooking the surrounding grounds and river. These rooms retain fine marble fireplaces and decorative ceilings, albeit now requiring careful restoration.

Further ground floor accommodation includes a sitting room, study and kitchen, all of which maintain their period proportions and character, but would benefit from modernisation. At first floor level, the bedroom accommodation is generous, with several rooms enjoying elevated views across the estate. The principal suite comprises a dressing room and en suite bathroom, while additional bedrooms are served by further bathrooms.

The basement extends the full footprint of the house and includes former service areas such as the original kitchen, nursery, billiards room and a range of ancillary spaces. This level offers significant potential for reconfiguration.

Lands and Grounds
Rarely does an estate extending to approximately 80.5 HA. (199) acres in County Meath come to the market, offering such a compelling combination of scale, setting and potential. Ardsallagh House is set within a substantial and well-balanced holding, presenting a unique opportunity to acquire not only a period residence, but a highly versatile farm and estate with significant future scope.

The lands comprise a mix of quality pasture and mature grounds, well suited to a variety of agricultural, equestrian or lifestyle uses. The holding is arranged in manageable divisions, with established boundaries and natural shelter provided by mature trees and woodland. Specimen plantings, including monkey puzzle, beech and chestnut, enhance the character of the estate, while shelter belts and boundary planting offer both privacy and protection.

A particular feature of the property is its river frontage, which forms an attractive natural boundary and adds considerably to the amenity value of the lands. The grounds immediately surrounding the house include former terraced lawns which, while now requiring reinstatement, provide an excellent framework for formal gardens and landscaped grounds. A very special feature of the property is the presence of a traditional St. Brigid’s Well within the grounds. The walled garden is another notable feature, offering significant potential for restoration as either a productive or ornamental space.

To the rear of the house lies an extensive and highly attractive yard complex. In addition to the traditional courtyard, there is a particularly impressive secondary yard set beyond, which greatly enhances the overall offering. Further outbuldings and cootages include a derelict cottage situated within the estate and 3 terraced estate cottages by the walled garden. Together, these outbuildings provide substantial accommodation and flexibility.

From a commercial perspective, the yard and outbuildings represent a key asset of the property. Subject to the necessary planning permissions, there is clear potential for conversion to guest accommodation, a boutique hotel or hospitality offering, event space, or other tourism-related uses. Equally, the lands and facilities would suit continued agricultural use.

Location
Ardsallagh House enjoys an enviable position just outside Navan, one of the principal towns in County Meath, often referred to as the “Royal County” due to its rich historical associations. The town provides an excellent range of amenities including schools, retail, dining and recreational facilities, while also serving as a key commuter hub to Dublin.

The area is particularly renowned for its exceptional sporting and leisure offerings. Racing enthusiasts are superbly catered for, with Navan Racecourse nearby, alongside the world-famous Fairyhouse Racecourse, home of the Irish Grand National, and Punchestown Racecourse, one of Ireland’s premier racing venues. Golfers are equally well served, with a selection of high-quality courses in the vicinity including Headfort Golf Club, featuring two championship courses, and Royal Tara Golf Club, widely regarded as one of the finest parkland courses in the region.

The surrounding area is steeped in heritage, with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, including Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, located nearby. The River Boyne valley provides a landscape rich in history, natural beauty and outdoor pursuits. Despite its tranquil rural setting, the property benefits from excellent accessibility, with Dublin City and Dublin Airport within comfortable commuting distance, making Ardsallagh House ideally suited as both a primary residence or a country retreat.

Distances
– 2.8 km / 5 minutes to M3 Motorway
– 4.1 km/ 7 minutes to Navan
– 16.4 km/ 20minutes to Trim
– 30.4 km/ 30 minutes to Ashbourne
– 18.9 km/ 18 minutes to Dunshaughlin
– 40.8 km/ 40 minutes To Dublin airport
– 45 km/ 50 minutes to Dublin
All distances/times are approximate.

Services
– Mains electricity
– Well water

Fixtures and Fittings
Curtains, carpets and light fittings are included in the sale.

BER Details
Exempt