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Churchtown House

Although situated very near the coast, Patricia and Austin Cody’s fine Georgian house is set in about eight and a half acres of wooded gardens and makes an ideal destination for anyone seeking rural tranquillity.

The house dates back to 1703 but it has been completely renovated and elegantly furnished by the Codys, to make a comfortable country house retreat: spacious sitting rooms have antique furniture and open fires, and the large bedrooms are equally pleasing, with generous beds, phones, TV and well-finished bathrooms...it would make a beautifully relaxing base for a few days exploring the area, and there is no shortage of things to do.

Golfers have no less than six championship links and parkland courses to choose from (two are only a few minutes’ drive away), for example, sea and shore angling are a big attraction, also walking the long sandy beaches, and horse riding - there’s a choice of equestrian centres nearby.

And there’s so much to visit too - the great Victorian revival Johnstown Castle and demesne is not to be missed, for example, also unspoilt Hook Head and the Hook Lighthouse which are just a short drive away, and there’s much more besides.

The Codys are renowned for their hospitality and, if you’re lucky enough to arrive at this well-run house at around teatime, you’ll be served delicious home-made cake and tea in the drawing room - other edible highlights include the fine Irish breakfast served in the bright dining room, also home-cooked dinners, which are available to residents by arrangement.

Midweek breaks, weekends and golf breaks all offer very good value.

Rooms 12 (2 junior suite, 3 executive, 6 shower only, all no smoking, 1 family room); children welcome (under 3s free in parents' room, cot available, €15). Pets permitted in certain areas (dog run); free broadband wi/fi. Garden. Dining room closed Sun-Mon. House closed Nov - Mar. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

On R736 1 km (half mile) from N25, at Tagoat.