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Kilmokea Country Manor & Gardens

Mark and Emma Hewlett's peaceful and relaxing late Georgian country house is set in 7 acres of Heritage Gardens, including formal walled gardens. The house is elegantly and comfortably furnished, with a drawing room overlooking the Italian Loggia, an honesty library bar, and a restaurant in the dining room.

The individually-designed and immaculately maintained bedrooms command lovely views over the gardens and towards the estuary beyond and in an adjoining coach house there are newer rooms and self-catering suites, with some offering a contemporary atmosphere. Mark and Emma continue with their ongoing programme of improvements to the property - there is now a tennis court and an indoor swimming pool, plus a gym and aromatherapy treatment rooms.

And work continues on a large organic vegetable garden, planted in the old potager design.

Conferences/banqueting (60/55). Children welcome (under 2s free in parents' room, cots available without charge; baby sitting arranged, playground, high chair, childrens menu). Pets allowed in some areas by arrangement. Gardens, fishing, tennis, croquet, walking; swimming pool, gym, mini-spa, aromatherapy.

Rooms 6 (5 en-suite, 1 with private bathroom; 1 suite, 1 junior suite, 1 shower only, 2 ground floor, 1 family room, 1 disabled, all no smoking). B&B €95 pps; ss €30. Self-catering also available.

Light meals in conservatory Pink Teacup Café, 12-3 daily when house and gardens are open; gift shop. Open weekends only 5 Nov- 1 Feb.

Peacock Dining Room:

The dining room overlooks the lovely gardens at the back, and is a delightful place. Emma looks after the cooking herself at present, and the emphasis is on organic and home-made fare.

There is also an unusually extensive wine list, including some real treats.

Seats 24 (private room, 14). Reservations required (non-residents welcome). Children welcome. Toilets wheelchair accessible. D daily, 7-9.15; Light meals in conservatory Pink Teacup Café, 12-3 daily when house and gardens are open; gift shop. A la carte. House wines from about €24.95. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Take R733 south from New Ross to Ballyhack, signposted for Kilmokea Gardens.