19th Century Castle For Sale in Co. Down

Key Features
– Magnificent 19th century castle
– Historic parkland with specimen trees and a feature lake
– 3-bedroom cottage and 2-bedroom gate lodge
– 2-bedroom courtyard apartment
– Renovated cobbled courtyard featuring a two-story studio and high-tech conference room
– Fertile land and mature woodland
– An attractive estate with a charming castle in a beautiful mature setting

Elmfield is an exceptional residential and agricultural estate with amenities extending to about 90.1 acres (36.4 hectares) in total. The historic, category B1 listed castle occupies a commanding position within the heart of the estate and dates back to circa 1850. This imposing castle has been extensively restored and refurbished by the current owners, making it well suited for modern day living.

The estate encompasses a diverse collection of auxiliary outbuildings, including a charming traditional cobbled courtyard and stable yard, which have been expertly renovated to now include a magnificent two storey studio and high-tech conference complex and a two bedroom apartment. Additionally, there are alternative lodging options available on the estate, such as a delightful two-bedroom gate lodge and a three-bedroom cottage.

One of the estate’s standout features is its attractive parkland, beautiful walled garden, and woodland paths, all brimming with an abundance of wildlife, including game, birds, flora, and fauna. The estate features a variety of specimen trees, providing vibrant colour and privacy throughout the grounds. These natural assets are a significant attraction, offering opportunities for nature conservation and diversification. The River Bann, Northern Ireland’s longest river, forms part of the boundary and provides fishing. The estate is partially enclosed by a stone wall.

The agricultural component of Elmfield includes excellent ploughable pasture, currently leased on a conacre basis. To the north of the castle lies a substantial farmyard which was formerly home to a large beef finishing enterprise, now with development potential (subject to Planning Permission). Elmfield offers the extremely rare opportunity to acquire a unique blend of high-quality assets situated in an accessible location.

Local Information
Elmfield is a hidden historic treasure by the banks of the River Bann, located on the fringe of Gilford Village in County Down. Gilford lies between the towns of Tandragee (3 miles), Portadown (5 miles) and Banbridge (6 miles) and is renowned for its linen industry. Whilst nestled in a private setting, Elmfield is a short drive from the village which provides for everyday amenities. The area is characterised by its rolling hills of productive farmland interspersed with impressive country houses arising from the wealth created from the local linen industry.

The estate is centrally located in Northern Ireland with easy access to the motorways North South and East West, with Belfast being 28 miles, Dublin 75 miles and Enniskillen to the West approximately 70 minutes. The main entrance is on the Moyallan Road (A50), with secondary access from the Plantation Road. The A50 starts at the town of Portadown and continues through Gilford, Banbridge and Castlewellan before arriving at the seaside town of Newcastle, located at the foot of Slieve Donard, the highest mountain in Northern Ireland. The vibrant and thriving capital city of Belfast is within daily commuting distance and offers the complete range of selection of shopping, educational and cultural facilities. Belfast International Airport is 27 miles north, while Belfast City Airport is 28 miles northeast and Dublin Airport is 75 miles south.

Elmfield is the ideal location for leisure and sporting activities with the Mourne Mountains for hillwalking enthusiasts, and Castlewellan Forest Park, as well as neighbouring beaches, for outdoor activities, being only 23 miles away. For those with equestrian interests, Down Racecourse is 16 miles distant and there is a number of equestrian centres within close proximity to the estate. For golfing enthusiasts, the Championship course Royal County Down is 26 miles to the southeast, while there is an abundance of local facilities.

There is a good range of primary and secondary schooling available in the area.