This month you have the opportunity to win a short break for two people sharing in one of Ireland’s most desirable country house destinations, Georgina Campbell Country House of the Year, Tankardstown House near Slane, Co Meath - a wonderful place for a short break, a special occasion, a good meal or just a light bite and a browse around the gardens.
Since buying the property in 2002, Trish and Brian Conroy have restored and renovated the house with
consideration and taste – and, thanks to their efforts, it also stands proud once again on the parkland that belonged to the original estate.
The main house was originally available only as a private venue for groups or events, but the Conroys later decided to open all rooms for independent bookings – so they are now able to
offer 18 luxurious double bedrooms, six of which are splendid period rooms situated in the main house, with additional accommodation in the courtyard.
The main house - which is still available for rent on an exclusive basis for special occasions - is
very beautiful, with several elegant reception rooms, a very beautiful dining room, huge kitchen, games room and more. A small bar that was initially intended to meet the needs of guests attending events (it is a gorgeous wedding venue), it now adds an extra dimension to the appeal of Tankardstown as a short breaks destination.
No expense has been spared with fine antiques, artwork and splendid mirrors, and only the very finest fabrics and furnishings feature in every room; the overall impression is one of
immaculate taste and luxurious comfort.
It’s
very conveniently located (only a short drive from Dublin airport and handy from the North too) and the area will repay time given to exploration – Newgrange World Heritage Site is nearby and there are lots of less obvious places to visit and things to do. Facilities on site include an all weather tennis court, massage room, gym and horse riding; golf and fishing nearby.
Restaurants:
In addition to the main house and courtyard, Trish and Brian Conroy have opened up buildings around a garden area at the rear, to provide not one but two restaurants - and, most recently, a pretty
Tea Room. It must originally have been the service yard, and they call it their ‘garden village’ - a fitting setting for good food, especially since the arrival of Robbie Krawczyk as head chef in spring 2014.
The Cellar is a smart casual restaurant and bar in a series of characterful former outbuildings, with outdoor seating for fine weather;
delicious, stylishly simple food is served here.
And, in the courtyard alongside, is the fine dining 70 seater
Brabazon Restaurant. Although mainly a new build you would never guess it - the old cow shed was the starting point and, like everything else at Tankardstown, it has been built and finished with exquisite taste to create
an atmospheric, slightly other-worldy setting for a very special dining experience.
The setting at Brabazon is charming, but it is much more than a pretty face. With its
excellent cooking - and exceptionally professional and friendly service - what you can expect here is a special occasion experience at an everyday price – a very customer focused approach which ensures plenty of returning guests.
The lucky winner of this free competition will have a midweek* short break for two people sharing (subject to availability), to include:
• 2 nights accommodation
• Dinner from Chef’s 7 Course Tasting Menu on evening of your choice
Read more about Tankardstown House on their website
* Tankardstown House enjoys such success as a wedding venue that they don’t have any weekend breaks available for the foreseeable future
To enter the competition simply tick the answers to the questions below (you must be a member, click here to join, it's free):