Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
THE DAY-TO-DAY UPKEEP, restoration, and preservation of a grand stately home is truly a labour of love. And it will come as no surprise that having someone with deep pockets take on the responsibility of owning one of Ireland’s magnificent buildings makes a big difference. The recent winner of the Euromillions certainly has the deepest – and they wouldn’t have to travel too far from their native Cork if they’re on the market for a luxurious home to spend their windfall on.
In a secluded pocket of the Tipperary countryside, where winding lanes lead to ancient woodland and open pastures, a stand-out property is look for its next owner. The Sopwell Hall Estate, a 240 acre Georgian parkland masterpiece, offers not only a rare architectural gem in the form of an early Georgian country house but also the romance of a 16th-century castle – all within reach of town.
Positioned almost equidistant from the historic market towns of Birr, Roscrea and Nenagh in County Tipperary, Sopwell Hall is just over an hour from Shannon Airport and two hours from Dublin and Cork – offering seclusion without sacrificing accessibility. The nearby village of Ballingarry and the town of Borrisokane ensure that amenities are never far, while the M7 motorway lies a short drive away.
Sopwell Hall itself was built in 1745 to a design attributed to Francis Bindon, one of Ireland’s most renowned 18th century architects. The house is a fine example of the poise and symmetry of early Georgian architecture – a three-storey structure over a basement, surrounded by mature parkland that creates an instant sense of privacy and grandeur.
From the moment you enter the grand reception hall – distinguished by fluted Doric pilasters and elegant arches – you are met with an atmosphere where light, space and craftsmanship take centre stage. Five reception rooms each have generous proportions, tall sash windows, open fireplaces with stately marble chimney pieces and intricate plasterwork that speaks to a bygone era of architectural finesse.
The accommodation stretches to over 1,322 m² and includes ten bedrooms across the upper floors. The main suite commands the south-eastern corner and is one of five principal bedrooms on the first floor, where a beautifully domed ceiling and scagliola sienna marble columns form a dramatic centrepiece on the landing. A further five bedrooms and a study are found on the second floor, which also features a games room.
Also included in the estate are three charming lodges and a studio, together offering over 315 m² of accommodation – ideal for guest use, creative endeavours or estate staff.
Beyond the main house lies Killaleigh Castle, a 16th century fortified tower house dating to about 1590. Although currently empty, the castle remains largely intact, adding a deeply historic dimension to the estate. With approximately 371 m² of space, it’s a super opportunity for a sensitive restoration or repurposing.
Sopwell Hall is set at the end of a meandering half-mile drive, framed by specimen trees and flanked by expansive grassland and ancient woodland. The estate’s layout, with a tree-lined perimeter and generous parkland vistas, ensures complete privacy and immersion in nature.
Around 100 acres of the estate is woodland, home to rare and ancient trees – including majestic Spanish chestnuts, an ancient beech wood and a unique Siberian crab-apple. Wildlife thrives here: red squirrels, pine martens and hares are frequent visitors, while buzzards and owls soar above. Adjoining the estate is Coillte-managed forestry with over 500 acres of accessible trails – a paradise for walkers, riders, and those who relish rural serenity.
Estates of this calibre and completeness rarely come to market. Sopwell Hall offers the perfect blend of architectural significance, natural beauty and historical depth. Whether envisioned as a grand private residence, a cultural retreat or a conservation-led restoration project, this estate presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
Curious about property sale prices in Tipperary? Visit Daft.ie’s new Sold Section to explore recent sales and find out more.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say