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Sherwood Park House

Built around 1700 by a Mr Arthur Baillie, this delightful Georgian farmhouse next to the famous Altamont Gardens is listed by Maurice Craig, the foremost authority on Ireland's architectural history, and beautifully located, with sweeping views over the countryside.

Patrick and Maureen Owens, who have welcomed guests here since 1991, accurately describe it as "an accessible country retreat for anyone who enjoys candlelit dinners, brass and canopy beds, and the relaxing experience of eating out while staying in".

Spacious accommodation is furnished in period style and thoughtful in the details that count - and Maureen takes pride in offering guests real home cooking based on the best of local produce, including "best locally produced Carlow beef and lamb, from Ballon Meats" and fish from Kilmore Quay.

As well as having Altamont Gardens on the doorstep (just 5 minutes away on foot), there's a lovely garden on site and it's a good area for walking - and fishing the Slaney.

Dinner is available by arrangement and is mainly for residents, although non-residents are welcome when there is room - it is served at 8pm and guests are welcome to bring their own wine and any other drinks. (Please remember to give advance notice if you would like dinner.)

Rooms 5 (all en-suite & no smoking); children welcome; pets permitted by arrangement. B&B €55 pps, ss €10. D €40 (BYO wine); non-residents welcome by reservation. Garden. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

Signed from the junction of the N80 and N81.