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IF YOU’RE LOOKING for a truly unique home that’s sure to keep you on your toes, Ireland is certainly the right place to search. As the country is dotted with historic manors and large demesnes, when one hits the market ears prick up.
Belmore House is a prime example of a home that will get house hunters talking. This enchanting Georgian gem has it all – history, charm and natural beauty. Located along the serene banks of the River Nore, this property sits in one of Ireland’s most picturesque settings.
Built in around 1790 as a hunting lodge for the Earl of Belmore, Belmore House was designed by architect Sir Richard Morrison. Located within a sweeping landscape of parklands, the residence offers a slice of Ireland’s rich heritage, with roots that reach deep into the Anglo-Norman period. Originally built for £5,000 – a big sum at the time – the house stands on the site of an older manor.
The house’s history is intimately linked with the land, particularly through the Earl’s connection with the nearby Mount Juliet Estate. The property also has close ties to the settlement of Newtown Jerpoint, a 12th century site that’s home to the Church of St. Nicholas, a key feature of the local area. The remains of this medieval settlement give a glimpse into Ireland’s fascinating past.
Stepping into Belmore House is like entering a world of elegance. The home spans an impressive 405 m², with each room designed to make the most of the light-filled interior and superb views of the surrounding countryside. A grand reception hall serves as the heart of the house, opening onto a series of reception rooms that blend period features with modern comfort.
The drawing room is a particular highlight, with its magnificent bay window framing stunning views of the rolling landscape. The dining room, complete with a period fireplace, exudes a sense of timelessness, while the study features original barrel-vaulted ceilings and a stone-flagged floor. The living room, equally inviting, has the same beautiful flooring and a welcoming stove for those chilly evenings.
The kitchen is a chef’s dream come true as it’s fitted with a four-oven Aga and a spacious seating area, making it an ideal space for family gatherings or entertaining guests. The pantry and boot room are thoughtful additions that add to the overall functionality of the property.
Belmore House has a well-appointed collection of bedrooms. Five in total have ample space and comfort. Three of the bedrooms have en suite shower rooms and the main bathroom serves the other two.
To the back of the house, a charming courtyard links to the stable yard, complete with a range of lofted buildings, including several loose boxes, a coach house, a tack room and a feed house. Above the central block of these buildings, there are living quarters that could be developed further. Whether you are a horse enthusiast or simply in need of extra space, these outbuildings offer endless possibilities.
The grounds surrounding Belmore House are just as impressive as the home itself. With mature trees and beautifully manicured gardens, the property has a sense of privacy and tranquillity. The walled garden, spanning one acre, has been lovingly restored and offers an idyllic space for outdoor enjoyment.
The estate is predominantly made up of 116 acres of permanent pasture and parklands. About 30 acres of the land is currently cultivated for tillage, while the remainder is an opportunity for more agricultural or recreational use. For anyone with a love of nature, the property also enjoys about 520 metres of single-bank fishing rights along the River Nore, along with the Little Arrigle River running along the eastern boundary.
Belmore House enjoys a truly enviable location. Just 3.2 kilometres from Thomastown and its train station, the property is well-connected, offering a frequent service to Dublin. For lovers of the outdoors, the neighbouring Mount Juliet Estate provides world-class golfing, while the River Nore offers excellent opportunities for fishing. The medieval city of Kilkenny is just a short drive away and the M9 ensures easy access to Dublin and its airport in less than an hour and a half.
Belmore House is a protected structure, which definitely adds an extra layer of prestige to this already exceptional property. This home needs an owner who wants to preserve its historical and architectural significance. A unique and meaningful home, Belmore House is a living piece of Irish history, set amidst stunning countryside and surrounded by a wealth of natural beauty.
Curious about property sale prices in Kilkenny? Visit Daft.ie’s new Sold Section to explore recent sales and find out more.
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