19th Century Residence For Sale in Co. Limerick

Key Features
– Historic property originally built in 1854
– Ideally located near Limerick City
– Set on about 8.6 acres
– Spanish and Moorish architectural influence
– Potential for further development ( subject to PP)

Kilbehy House is accessed via bell mouth stone entrance piers, and a sweeping driveway arrives at a parking area to the front of the house. A glass porch leads through to the entrance hall, providing access to the dining room, sitting room and living room. An independent living quarter with private access to the rear of the house is located just off the dining room and includes a sitting room and bathroom at ground level and a bedroom on the first floor.

Both the sitting and living room are fitted with large bay windows and marble fireplaces. A beautiful east facing glass conservatory is set adjoining the sitting and living rooms and affords beautiful morning sunshine. Glass double doors open onto the garden.

The kitchen/ breakfast room is located just off the living room and benefits from a storeroom. A further set of double doors provide access to the garden.

The bedroom accommodation is located on the first floor. Three well proportioned bedrooms along with a bathroom are accessed off the landing area. A further bedroom in situated on the third floor of the turret.

Although in need of some modernisation, the property offers purchasers on opportunity to create a fine family home steeped in history and surrounded by wonderful countryside.

Chapel
The oratory was built in 1854, again to the designs of Martin Haverty, and retains its original form as well as the simple, yet finely carved window and door dressings. The interior retains The Dead Christ, which is by the sculptor John Hogan, the full-size version of which is in Saint Theresa’s Church, Grafton Arcade, Dublin. The Celtic high cross also adds architectural and historical interest to the complex.

Gardens and Grounds
The house is surrounded by well planted gardens, as well as two paddocks and a variety of original outbuildings. To the right of the entrance gate and oratory stands a mature stand of oak trees, planted approximately forty years ago. Although in need of some repair these buildings offer the discerning buyer a wonderful opportunity to further develop the property.

History
Originally built in 1854 and designed by Martin Haverty, Kilbehy House stands as a remarkable example of 19th-century Irish architecture with a distinctive Spanish influence, notably its elegant three-storey turret. The estate’s name, Cillbeithe Mhuire – meaning “Church of the Birch Tree of Mary” – reflects its cultural and spiritual significance.

Originally part of the historic Royce estate, Kilbehy House was thoughtfully constructed using locally quarried stone. Haverty, celebrated for his extensive travels and published works, including Wanderings in Spain and The History of Ireland, also commissioned a private oratory on the grounds, featuring sculptures by renowned artist John Hogan. Martin Haverty, the original owner and designer of Kilbehy House, was the stepbrother of the renowned artist Joseph P. Haverty, famous for works such as ‘The Blind Piper’. Haverty Road in Marino, Dublin, is named in his honor.

Over the years, this listed property has been carefully restored to preserve its architectural integrity and historical importance. Today, the property offers a unique window into Ireland’s rich heritage, combining distinguished craftsmanship with deep cultural resonance.

Local Information
Kilbehy House occupies a private and peaceful location 4.5 km outside Askeaton. Askeaton offers a range of amenities and services for every day necessities including both a primary and secondary school, shops, a pharmacy and sporting facilities.

Limerick City (27km) is a former Viking settlement and Medieval walled urban centre which is brimming with historical significance and notable architectural marvels. Significant landmarks include King John’s Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral. In addition, the city provides a comprehensive array of amenities, services and a vibrant cultural scene.

The property is very well situated for quality sporting and recreational activities including rugby, GAA, soccer, swimming and tennis to name a few. Equestrian enthusiasts are well catered for with Limerick Racecourse just 21 kilometres distant and the 200-acre Clonshire Equestrian Centre being 12 kilometres distant.

The popular heritage town of Adare (12 km) is located east of the property and is renowned for its architecture, as well as being one of Ireland’s prettiest towns. Historically a market town, Adare contains an abundance of amenities including excellent hotels, restaurants, professional services, along with a small variety of boutiques and retail stores. The award winning 5* Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort is located nearby and includes a spectacular Championship Golf Course, designed by Tom Fazio which will host the 2027 Ryder Cup.

Kilbehy House is well connected with Shannon Airport (47km) offering international flights and the M7 connecting Limerick to Dublin.