Built in 1720 by John Ryan, one of the few landed Catholic gentlemen in Tipperary, this magnificent Georgian house outside Thurles managed to survive some of the most turbulent periods in Irish history and to remain in the Ryan family for almost 300 years.
John and Norah Egan, who farm the surrounding 250 acres, took it over in a state of dereliction in 1985 and began the major restoration work which has resulted in the handsome, comfortably furnished period house which guests enjoy today.
Reception rooms on either side of a welcoming hallway have period fireplaces with big log fires, and include an unusual William Morris-style drawing room with a tall stained glass window, a magnificent plasterwork ceiling (and adjoining library bar) and a fine dining room, which is used for residents’ breakfasts and is transformed into a restaurant at night.
The five bedrooms are quite individual and are furnished with antiques.
Small weddings. Equestrian, golf, fishing (coarse) and hunting/shooting all nearby. Walking. Children welcome (under 10 free in parents' room; cot available without charge). No Pets. Free broadband wi/fi.
Rooms 5 (all en-suite, 1 shower only, 1 family room). B&B €45-55 pps, ss €10. Closed Christmas & New Year.
Restaurant:
The restaurant, which is open to non-residents by reservation, has polished wood floors, classic country house decor and tables laid with crisp white linen and fresh flowers, which provide a pleasing setting for dinner, especially when the ambience is softened by firelight and candles.
Dinner menus offer a well-balanced choice of about six dishes on each course, in a fairly traditional style that combines French country cooking and Irish influences, and makes good use of local produce. Dishes like Cooleeney cheese parcel, for example (local cheese in filo pastry, with grape chutney), for example, and the ever-popular entrecôte steak with mushroom & whiskey sauce, illustrate the style.
Anyone with special dietary needs, including vegetarians, should mention this on booking to allow for preparation of extra dishes.
Seats 50. D Tue-Sat 6-9.15; 3 course early bird D Tue-Fri 6-7.30pm (to 7pm Fri) €35; Set D €55; also a la carte; house wine €23; sc discretionary. Not suitable for children after 7 pm. Restaurant closed Sun & Mon; house closed 2 weeks Christmas. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
