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Roundwood House

It is hard to see how anyone could fail to love this unspoilt early Georgian house, which lies secluded in mature woods of lime, beech and chestnut, at the foot of the Slieve Bloom mountains - a sense of history and an appreciation of genuine hospitality are all that is needed to make the most of a stay here, so just relax and share the immense pleasure and satisfaction that Frank and Rosemarie Kennan derive from their years of renovation work.

Although unconventional in some ways, the house is extremely comfortable and well heated, and all the bathrooms have been renovated; each bedroom has its particular charm, although it might be wise to check if there is a large group staying, in which case the bedroom above the drawing room may not be the best option.

Restoration is an ongoing process and an extraordinary (and historically unique) barn is possibly the next stage; this enterprise defies description, but don’t leave Roundwood without seeing it. Children, who always love the unusual animals and their young in the back yard, are very welcome and Rosemarie does a separate tea for them.

Dinner is served at 8 o’clock, at a communal table, and based on the best local and seasonal ingredients (notably locally reared beef and lamb); Rosemarie’s food suits the house - good home cooking without unnecessary frills - and Frank is an excellent host.

An informative and surprisingly extensive wine list includes a generous choice of half bottles.

Small conferences/Banqueting (25/40); free broadband wi/fi. Rooms 10 (all en-suite, 3 family, 6 no-smoking, 2 ground floor); children welcome (under 3 free in parents' room, children sharing 50% reduction, cot available without charge; playroom, baby sitting arranged). No pets. B&B €65 pps, ss €15 (10% discount on stays of two nights, 20% discount on stays of 3 nights or more). No sc. D at 8pm (7pm Sun); set 2/3 course D, €35/50 (non-residents welcome by reservation if there is room); please book by noon. House wine €16.50. Garden, croquet, boules, walking - there is a mile long walk in the grounds and garden renovation is ongoing. Stabling available at the house; horse riding nearby. Golf nearby. Establishment closed 24 & 25 Dec. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

On the left, 5km (3 miles) from Mountrath, on R440.