Historic Property For Sale in Co. Offaly

As the electric security gates open, you’re greeted by a tree-lined avenue, setting the scene for an unparalleled arrival experience. Drive up the gravelled avenue lined by rows of cherry trees which leads you to the impeccable Queen Anne double fronted façade. This is the most recent architectural evolution of the property dating back to the early 1700s and retains the original panelled door complete with original door furniture and transome light. Manicured box hedging frames the entrance, adding a touch of sophistication.

Although the Queen Anne façade reads as a two storey property, the actual house is three storey over basement with the windows in the third floor being Mansard 17th century style windows facing south and west, maximizing sunlight.

Special Features
– Architecturally significant home with over 600 years of history
– Painstakingly renovated in the late 1990s under the supervision of MVK conservation architects
– 3 elegant and tastefully decorated reception rooms
– 5 double bedrooms, 3 en-suite
– One further family bathroom, with a slipper bath
– Large eat in kitchen with all modern appliances including cream two oven AGA with an electric two oven AGA module and hob
– Adjoining scullery containing second dishwasher, fridge freezer, cupboards and shelving for delph and china
– Restored timber sash windows with original working shutters throughout including original window seats
– Walled garden, orchard, vegetable garden, farmyard with three loose boxes and a tack room
– Stunning enclosed courtyard with stone outbuildings
– Separate farmyard entrance
– All of the above set in approximately 4.87 hectares (12 acres) of private secluded gardens and grounds
– Close proximity to Dublin Airport and Dublin City Centre

Ground Floor
Step inside to a stunning entrance hall with Victorian tile flooring in intricate mosaic patterns. The hall’s centrepiece is an impressive hand-carved early 18th century staircase, enhanced by matching elegant dado rails.

To the right is the library, where triple-aspect timber sash windows with working shutters flood the room with natural light. This space, fitted with reclaimed cat’s paw wide plank oak flooring, features an open fireplace with a stove set within a 17th-century fireplace originally from Strokestown House. Bespoke bookcases and decorative wall panelling with gold leaf detailing complete this sophisticated retreat.

To the left of the hall is the dining room with its historical charm, showcasing shouldered architraves around the doors and sash windows. A stunning hand-carved fireplace serves as the focal point, creating an ambiance of refined elegance.

The kitchen, hand made by the late Clive Nunn, is a harmonious blend of traditional charm and modern convenience. Exposed timber beams, deep timber sash windows with working shutters, and built-in window seats reflect the 17th-century architecture. Modern amenities include a kitchen island and state-of-the-art appliances, all within a space that offers breathtaking, double aspect views of the stone courtyard and lawns.

The basement is laid in flagstone flooring and is suitable for storage.

First Floor
The staircase facing the main Queen Anne hall door leads to the first floor accommodation.

As one arrives on the landing, on the left is a beautiful large double bedroom complete with original early 18th century panelling, original fireplace and original built in storage cupboards on either side.

Straight ahead is the large family bathroom with a free standing slipper bath.

To the right is the dual aspect sitting room enveloped in 17th century original Baltic pine panelling complete with fireplace and original built in storage cupboard.

Across the landing on this floor, in the original 17th century side of the house, is the main bedroom suite which serves as a luxurious boudoir complete with its original fireplace and black polished limestone surround. To the right of the fireplace is an original built in cupboard. This room is dual aspect with shouldered architraves surrounding all of the windows and doors. The adjoining dressing room features built in wardrobes, also by Clive Nunn while the en-suite bathroom boasts a freestanding rolled top bath, a traditional rain shower, wall radiators and a fireplace with a lime stone surround.

Second Floor
The second floor in the original 17th century south side of the house offers two beautifully appointed bedrooms with Mansard windows, enhancing the light and space.

One bedroom which is dual aspect, features a fireplace with a freestanding stove, a walk-in dressing room with an en-suite bathroom including bath, bidet and separate shower.

The second bedroom on this floor is currently used as a nursery/sitting room/office and allows the entire floor to be used as a separate private suite if desired. This room also has its original fireplace surround with a free standing stove.

On the Queen Anne side, continuing up the staircase from the entrance hall is a charming, dual aspect double bedroom with Mansard and gable windows with its own private bathroom. This bedroom also has its original fireplace and a free standing stove. The tastefully finished bathroom with a Georgian skylight, built-in cabinets, and a countertop with a sink and shower completes this floor.

This magnificent home has undergone a meticulous renovation in the late 1990s, including a new roof, rewiring, and new plumbing. Every detail has been thoughtfully considered, ensuring the property retains its historical charm while offering modern amenities. As an added benefit, the Castle currently avails of the 482 Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 which provides tax relief to the owners or occupiers of an approved building including the garden for costs incurred by its repair, maintenance or restoration.

Gardens and Grounds
The grounds of The Castle are a meticulously curated landscape, offering a blend of manicured lawns, intricate box hedging, and majestic mature trees. This creates a tranquil setting that perfectly complements the historic grandeur of the property. A charming courtyard off the kitchen features an outdoor dining area, perfect for al fresco meals and gatherings. This space is ideal for enjoying the serene garden views while dining in the open air.

As you explore the gardens, you’ll be taken aback by the arrangement of lush greenery and vibrant blooms. Manicured lawns provide expansive open spaces for leisurely strolls and outdoor gatherings. The orchard is a highlight of the grounds, featuring an array of rare and exquisite eating apple specimen trees. Among these are the Kerry Piplin, Lady Finger of Offaly, Cavan Sugarcane, Dick Davies, and Scarlet Crofton, each contributing unique charm and character to the landscape. These trees not only enhance the beauty of the grounds but also offer a delightful variety of fruits, perfect for fresh, seasonal enjoyment.

The property boasts a collection of original stone outbuildings, each thoughtfully restored with new roofs to ensure both durability and future conversion subject to planning permission. The stables are perfectly suited for equestrian enthusiasts, carefully renovated to preserve their original character while providing contemporary utility. An Additional shed houses all the firewood, ensuring a plentiful supply for the estate’s fireplaces. A dedicated space for growing fresh produce, the vegetable garden adds both practicality and charm to the grounds. A serene walkway lined with hornbeam hedges offers a peaceful retreat within the gardens. The enclosed stone wall paddock would make an ideal arena, perfect for equestrian activities, while the large paddock, lined with stud railing, is ideal for grazing or as an additional equestrian space or for livestock.

The grounds include a secondary farm entrance, designed for the convenience of heavy machinery and trucks. This practical addition ensures ease of access for maintenance and agricultural activities without disturbing the main residence. The exterior of the property is tastefully finished in a lime wash, enhancing its historical charm. All windows are painted in a sophisticated charcoal downpipe colour, adding a touch of modern elegance. The original castle, dating back to 1460, abuts the main house, providing a stunning historical backdrop.

One of the outhouses, close to the house which abuts the castle, houses the boiler and also serves as a laundry room.

Location
The Castle boasts an enviable location, perfectly blending tranquil country living with easy access to urban conveniences. Situated approximately over an hour from Dublin city and its international airport, the Castle offers the ideal balance between seclusion and connectivity. This prime location ensures that residents can enjoy the serenity of rural life without sacrificing the amenities and opportunities of the capital.

The Castle is conveniently located just 30 minutes from the M4 motorway, providing seamless connectivity to various destinations. The nearby town of Edenderry, less than a 10-minute drive away, caters to all your shopping needs with its wide range of supermarkets, boutiques, and local stores. Edenderry also offers essential services such as banks, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities, making it a hub of convenience for residents of the Castle.

Families will appreciate the excellent educational opportunities in the vicinity. For those seeking further education, the university town of Maynooth is less than a 40-minute drive from the castle. Home to Maynooth University, one of Ireland’s leading higher education institutions, the town offers a vibrant academic and cultural scene. Students and residents alike can enjoy the numerous cafes, restaurants, and cultural events that make Maynooth a lively and engaging place to visit.

Distances
– 8.2 km / 10 minutes to Edenderry
– 13 km / 15minutes to M6/M4 at Rochford Bridge
– 17.8 km / 22 minutes to Kinnegad
– 29.7 km / 30 minutes to Mullingar
– 31 km/ 32 minutes to Tullamore
– 29.2 km / 31 minutes to Enfield
– 67.7 km / 1 hour & 10 minutes to Dublin City Centre
– 73.9 km / 1 hour to Dublin Airport

Nearby Educational Facilities
– Local Primary School, Ballybryan NS 0.5km/ 5 minutes
– St. Mary’s Secondary School, 8km/ 10 minutes
– Wilson’s Hospital, Day and Boarding School, 45km/ 40 minutes
– Clongowes Boarding School, 39km/ 45 minutes

All distances are approximate.

BER Details
Exempt