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Clonalis House

Standing on the land that has been the home of the O’Conors of Connacht for 1,500 years, this 45-room Victorian Italianate mansion may seem a little daunting on arrival, but it’s magic - and the hospitable owners, Pyers and Marguerite O’Conor-Nash, clearly relish sharing their rich and varied history with guests, who are welcome to browse through their fascinating archive. Amazing heirlooms include a copy of the last Brehon Law judgment (handed down about 1580) and also Carolan’s Harp.

Everything is on a huge scale: reception rooms are all very spacious, with lovely old furnishings and many interesting historic details, bedrooms have massive four poster and half tester beds and bathrooms to match - and the dining room is particularly impressive, with a richly decorated table to enhance Marguerite’s home cooking.

Yet, despite the grandeur, there is a wonderfully warm and homely atmosphere at Clonalis House, which is set amid peaceful parklands and is well-placed for exploring county Roscommon, and the nearer parts of Galway, Mayo and Sligo – and, of course, it is very handy to Ireland West Airport at Knock, which is fast becoming an airport of choice for visitors wishing to avoid the hassle of larger airports.

*Two attractive self-catering cottages are also offered, in the courtyard; details on application.

Rooms 4 (3 en-suite, 1 with private bathroom; all no smoking); unsuitable for children under 10 years. B&B €95-110 pps, ss €20. Residents D Tue-Sat, 8pm, €45 (24 hrs notice required); house wine from €20. (D not available Sun or Mon.) No pets. *A 10% reduction is offered for stays of three or more nights. Horse riding, fishing, shooting and golf (9) are all nearby. Garden, walking. Closed Oct-Apr. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

N60, west of Castlerea.