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Ballyarr House, Ramelton, Co. Donegal, F92 H4X8

May 20, 2025 #

A Georgian Gem in the Heart of Donegal…

Ballyarr House is a hidden treasure an elegant Georgian country house nestled on an elevated site with sweeping views of its mature grounds and the rolling Donegal countryside. Though discreetly secluded, it lies just six miles from Letterkenny, the county’s commercial and cultural hub. Painstakingly restored to reflect its 18th-century origins, Ballyarr House combines historic charm with an enviable location.

A Storied Past

Built around 1780, Ballyarr House holds a significant place in Ireland’s historical and cultural landscape. In its listing by the Ireland’s National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, it states that the house ‘is distinguished by the triple gable-fronted façade’, which makes it unique among Georgian buildings. Its history is also very special. In 1842, the house was acquired and remodelled by Lord George Hill, the fifth son of the second Marquis of Downshire. As owner of vast tracts of land in Gweedore, his legacy as an “improving” landlord remains a matter of debate. Although responsible for developing the area, including the building of Bunbeg harbour and the Gweedore hotel that is now An Chuirt, his ‘reforms’ led to clashes with his tenants. His portrait can be seen in the mural that graces Ballyarr’s main hall.

During Hill’s tenure, the house hosted notable visitors, including two viceroys and the Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle, who famously described it as ‘a farm-like place’ enhanced by a fashionable Italian-style piazza.Hill’s personal life adds a further layer to Ballyarr’s rich narrative. In 1834, he married Cassandra Knight, a niece of the celebrated novelist Jane Austen. After Cassandra’s death, he married her sister Louisa. Following Hill’s own death in 1879, a third sister, Marianne, joined the household. Both Louisa and Marianne are buried in nearby Tully graveyard.

The story of the Austen nieces in Ireland is detailed in May, Lou and Cass: Jane Austen’s Nieces in Ireland by Sophia Hillan (Blackstaff Press, 2011) while Lord George’s life is recorded in The Peer, the Priests and the Press by Roy Greenslade (Beyond the Pale, 2023).

A Legacy of Stewardship
Hill’s son, Arthur, inherited Ballyarr in 1879 and retained ownership until 1900, when the property was sold to William Russell, along with the adjacent flour mill. The Russell family held the estate until 1974, when it was acquired by Ian Smith, a former hotelier and British war hero, and his artist wife, Peggy. Their stewardship marked the beginning of the house’s modern restoration. Although it was necessary to demolish one wing, its magnificent curved window was preserved and now features in The House on the Brae’ in the town of Ramelton.

In 1981, Ballyarr House was bought by bank manager Andy O’Loghlin and his wife Breda. They sold it in 1989 to Roy and Noreen Greenslade, who carried out an extensive restoration in order to revive the home’s Georgian character. The drawing room and library were returned to their original proportions, new period fireplaces were installed, and ornate ceiling cornices were meticulously restored. Outside, the front façade was stripped of stucco to expose the original stonework.

A Rare Find
With its fascinating history, architectural elegance, and tranquil setting, Ballyarr House is not just a residence it is a living legacy. Lovingly preserved, it is one of County Donegal’s foremost properties.

Overview
Set within 11.8 acres of stunning parkland, this magnificent and fully restored country house offers a rare combination of absolute privacy, refined architecture, and unspoilt natural beauty. A 300-yard tree-lined driveway leads to the property, ensuring total seclusion from the road.

Grounds & Gardens

The landscaped estate boasts extensive lawned areas perfect for summer recreation, framed by mature trees. A walled garden enclosed by an 8-foot-high local stone wall is accessible via timber double doors. A water meadow surrounds a circle of ancient trees known as the ‘Fairy Fort’, which features in the book Native Woodlands of County Donegal by Glenveagh National Park’s head gardener, Seán Ó Gaoithín. Three acres are planted with 5,000 native deciduous trees under the Forestry Commission, enriching the estate’s ecological value. The grounds are bordered by woodland and the River Lennon, which provides a serene and private setting.

Outbuildings
A workshop, adjacent to a boiler room, provides storage for garden tools and machinery. There is a separate building for the storage of logs. They are complemented by a spacious modern garage on the laneway, large enough to accommodate two cars, tractor, and sit-on mower.

Cellar
Beneath the house is a first-class cellar in excellent condition which occupies the entire footprint of the residence. Accessible both internally and externally, it is divided into five well-proportioned rooms. Currently used, in part, for wine storage, it features original flooring and refurbished ceilings. It offers a range of potential uses, whether for additional storage, or as a wine cellar, gym, cinema, or hobby space.

The Interior accommodation is arranged as follows;

Entrance Stone steps lead to half-glazed double front doors, framed internally with wood panelling

Entrance Hall (3.03m x 8.18m) Original pine flooring, decorative ceiling cornice, and bespoke murals depicting local scenery

Drawing Room (4.69m x 8.36m) Double-aspect room with expansive rural views, sash windows with shutters, seagrass flooring, ornate radiator cover, and marble fireplace

Study / Library (5.52m x 8.36m) Panoramic front-facing views, sash windows with shutters, custom-built bookshelves with cupboards below, seagrass flooring, and slate period fireplace

Dining Room (4.78m x 3.16m) Seagrass flooring, original marble fireplace, picture rail, and ornate radiator cover

Rear Hallway Leads to rear lobby and:

Conservatory (12.26m x 1.98m) Tiled flooring, fitted shelving, and glazed door to garden

Cloakroom / Classic white two-piece suit

Kitchen / Breakfast Room (9.58m x 4.58m) Country-style decor with white Welsh dressers, Belfast sink, pine flooring, recessed lighting, and glazed doors to rear garden.

First Floor
Mezzanine Landing – Fitted bookshelves, walk-in hot press, ironing area, and cloakroom/WC with loft access.

Main Bathroom (4.80m x 3.05m) Dual-aspect, roll-top claw-foot bath, brass fittings, sash windows with shutters, and vintage medicine cabinet.

Second Bathroom – Original fireplace, traditional wood panelling, power shower.

Main First Floor Landing (3.01m x 4.97m) Commanding views across estate grounds, original sash window with shutters, seagrass flooring, and ornate detailing.

Bedroom 1 (4.78m x 5.13m) Double aspect, sash windows, original fireplace with hearth and brass fender.

Bedroom 2 (4.78m x 3.07m) Far-reaching views, original fireplace, and built-in cupboard.

Bedroom 3 (4.78m x 3.64m) Overlooks gardens, extensive fitted wardrobes and bookshelves, ornate fireplace, and loft access.

Bedroom 4 (4.78m x 4.56m) Garden views, original fireplace, and fitted wardrobes.

This rare estate offers a unique opportunity to acquire a fully restored historic country house with elegant interiors, extensive and secluded grounds, and the potential for both leisure and lifestyle pursuits.

Natural Boundaries

The estate is bordered by woodland and the scenic River Lennon, reinforcing its sense of peace and seclusion.

Donegal, F94 VH90

May 17, 2025 #

Edel Quinn Properties are proud to bring to market this fabulous property in a great location in Donegal Town.

The property would have originally been a 4 bedroom semi-detached but was zoned and adjusted for commercial use. The ground floor comprises a reception room and 2no. rooms that would have been used for commercial purposes. There is a kitchen and WC to ground floor also. The first and second floor are configured as a 3 bedroom townhouse. The first floor comprises 2no. bedrooms (one of which with en suite), a kitchen and a bathroom. The second floor consists of a further bedrooms with en suite.

The house is in a wonderful location just 500m from the Diamond in Donegal Town and with off street parking and a small and easy to keep garden to rear.

The property would make for a wonderful investment for anyone wanting to operate their business and live or rent above, or indeed for anyone who wants to bring this property back to its original 4 bedroom semi-detached layout.

Donegal, F94 VH90

May 17, 2025 #

Edel Quinn Properties are proud to bring to market this fabulous property in a great location in Donegal Town.

The property would have originally been a 4 bedroom semi-detached but was zoned and adjusted for commercial use. The ground floor comprises a reception room and 2no. rooms that would have been used for commercial purposes. There is a kitchen and WC to ground floor also. The first and second floor are configured as a 3 bedroom townhouse. The first floor comprises 2no. bedrooms (one of which with en suite), a kitchen and a bathroom. The second floor consists of a further bedrooms with en suite.

The house is in a wonderful location just 500m from the Diamond in Donegal Town and with off street parking and a small and easy to keep garden to rear.

The property would make for a wonderful investment for anyone wanting to operate their business and live or rent above, or indeed for anyone who wants to bring this property back to its original 4 bedroom semi-detached layout.

Cranford, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 EC82

May 17, 2025 #

Louis Boyce Estate Agents are delighted to offer for sale this fine four-bedroom residential house with garage and views overlooking Mulroy Bay. Ideal family home located close to Carrigart 9km,Rosapenna Golf Complex 11km, Milford 7km, & Latterkenny 26km . This property warrants an early viewing.

0.5 Acre Site, Edenvale, Ennis, Co. Clare

May 17, 2025 #

Outstanding opportunity to acquire a stunning site in an exceptional location known as Edenvale, Kilrush Road Ennis, one of the county town’s much sought after residential locations. The site is part of folio CE24104

The site is being sold subject to planning and local needs apply.
Extending to 0.5 acres and bound by mature trees, hedgerows and dry stone walls, this s a must view to full appreciate its cul de sac and private location.

Moneen, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

May 17, 2025 #

Valuable Development Opportunity.
Site Area 0.497 Acres.

The Lands are in a convenient location adjoining Fortlands Estate , Moneen with frontage on to the N5 Dublin Road . Maps and further details on request from Moran Auctioneers.

NOTE: Any information, description, measurement or statement so given or contained in any such sales particulars, webpage, brochure, email, letter, report issued by or on behalf of Moran Auctioneers or the vendor are for illustration purposes only and are not to be taken as matters of fact or to be taken as forming any part of a resulting contract. Moran Auctioneers nor the vendor accept any liability as to their accuracy of the particulars. Interested parties must conduct their due diligence by personal inspection or otherwise as to the correctness of these particulars. No person in the employment of Moran Auctioneers has any authority to make or give any representation or warranty whatever in relation to this property

No.52 Killarney Rd., Castleisland, Co. Kerry V92 YF84, V92 W525

May 17, 2025 #

Two x 2-bed apartments, ground floor and first floor, shared front door, all other services independent. Electric heating, uPVC double-glazed windows to front elevation, single-glazed aluminium to rear. Rear yard access.

1 Naughan, Belturbet, Co. Cavan

May 17, 2025 #

Presenting to the market Number 1 Naughan, a stunning four bedrooms, six bathrooms detached home on an elevated site with significant well-manicured gardens, mature shrubbery and large detached garage. The property boasts many special features most notably outstanding water views from the primary bedrooms and living area and to the rear is a beautiful suntrap, with a tarmac drive finish ideal for summer evening entertaining or al-fresco dining.

The property which is finished to a meticulously high standard throughout comprises of a welcoming porch that leads bright and airy entrance hallway. The living room is offset with fantastic views and a solid fuel stove, the french doors leading into the kitchen allow for an open plan option or a more private setting if required. There is a separate spacious sitting room with an open fireplace, to the rear is a generous en-suite double bedroom currently being used as a home office. The ground floor is complete with a utility room the rear that leads to the patio and a guest bathroom.

Upstairs is an airy landing with access to storage eves, the property has a spacious family bathroom. The property boasts three stylishly decorated and very spacious double bedrooms all with fully equipped en-suites. The two bedrooms to the front overlook the gardens and the local Kilconny Lake, providing breath taking views every morning.

The property requires no outside works as it has a fully finished tarmac drive and mature gardens. The rear is a private patio for entertaining while to the side is large free standing garage. There is ample parking outside the property.

More about the location…
Ideally located on the outskirts of Belturbet Town, this is a peaceful and mature setting. The property has a secure boundary fence and is set back from road ideal for families. Belturbet town is just a 1.5 km 10 minute walk away. Naughan is a 10 minutes drive from Ballyconnell and Cavan respectfully. A range of good creches, schools, walks, pharmacies and restaurants are close by. The M3 means Dublin is only a 90 minute drive away. Castle Saunderson, Killykeen Forest Walk and the Slieve Russel have lovely walks and an 18 hole Golf Course which is very close by. While Cuilcagh Boardwalk which is nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven is approximately 30 minutes away.

Curreeney, Kilcommon, E41 VP20

May 17, 2025 #

REA Eoin Dillon is delighted to bring to market this traditional two-bedroom stone-built cottage, set on a spacious 0.69 acre (0.25 hectare) site in a peaceful rural setting near Kilcommon, Co. Tipperary.

Located just 24 minutes from both Nenagh and Thurles, and only 9 minutes from Kilcommon village, this property offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a countryside retreat or a rewarding renovation project.

The cottage, believed to date from the late 19th or early 20th century, is currently derelict and uninhabitable.
Accommodation includes an entrance porch, living/dining room, bathroom, and two upstairs bedrooms (with no current access).

The property is connected to mains water has an electricity connection and the septic tank is located via a registered wayleave in a field directly across the road.

This property requires full refurbishment and renovations. Despite this, it retains the charm and potential to be transformed into a beautiful home in a scenic setting.

This property could potentially be eligible for grants up to €70,000 with the Croí Cónaithe Fund, which is available for properties intended for rental as well as owner-occupied homes undergoing refurbishment. This grant may also be combined with the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s Better Energy Home Scheme, which could potentially offer a further €26,750 in support.

A structural report is available on request, which is suitable for grant application purposes.

For more information contact us today at info@readillon.ie or 067 33468.

Dundrain, Burnfoot, Co. Donegal, F93 ER88

May 17, 2025 #

Impressive Five-Bedroom Country Residence Just 1km from the Derry Border .

Located just a kilometre from the Derry border, this imposing country residence offers generous accommodation and refined living throughout. With five spacious bedrooms one of which is ensuite and a grand central staircase in the hallway, the home exudes a sense of classic opulence from the moment you step inside.
Ideal for modern family life, the property boasts three reception rooms, providing ample space for relaxation, entertaining, or teenage retreat areas. The level front gardens are framed by a block-belt boundary wall and smart entrance pillars, enhancing the home’s kerbside appeal. To the rear, an entertaining terrace off the sunroom offers a perfect spot for outdoor gatherings.

A large double detached garage further adds to the practicality and appeal of this unique home.

Important Note: The property has been tested for defective blocks, and the results confirm that it is fully mortgageable – providing reassurance and confidence for prospective buyers.

The accommodation is arranged as follows:
Accessed via a composite part-glazed front door into;
Entrance Hallway; 3.85m x 6.38m solid walnut flooring, recessed lighting, double doors into a built-in under stairs recess storage area completed with fitted shelving & hanging rails
Living Room; 3.73m x 5.26m A bright, welcoming room with solid walnut flooring, recessed lighting, a raised hearth with a solid fuel burning stove, TV point
Open Plan Kitchen/Dinette; 3.74m x 9.40m this split level includes a raised dining area with solid walnut flooring, (kitchen) the kitchen features high gloss wall & base units, granite work surfaces with matching upstands, a single drainer sink unit with separate waste bowl, 5 ring gas hob, eye level oven & grill, integrated dishwasher & fridge/freezer, double fully glazed doors to;
Sunroom; 4.69m x 5.59m A beautiful space with vaulted ceiling & exposed beams, solid walnut flooring, recessed lighting, double fully glazed pvc doors to the wrap around terrace – ideal for barbeques & outdoor dining
Utility Ro0om; 1.67m x 2.83m fitted with a modest range of wall & base units including a broom cupboard, stainless steel single drainer sink unit, tiled floor & walls, half glazed white pvc door to outside, further door to;
Storage Cupboard; 1.67m x 1.08m houses the central vacuum system
Bedroom 5; (Ground Floor) (rear) 3.73m x 3.98m Spacious ground floor bedroom with wide plank laminated flooring
Shower Room; 2.08m x 2.83m walk-in shower enclosure, white 2 piece suite with fitted shelving under the wash hand basin, tiled floor
Carpeted Stairs to 1st Floor;
Landing; 3.89m x 4.00m loft access
Bedroom 1; (rear) 3.72m x 5.25m double aspect, carpet flooring, built-in wardrobe, further door to;
Ensuite; 1.77m x 3.23m white 2 piece suite with separate fully tiled shower enclosure with manual Aqualisa shower, fitted shelving, velux window, tiled splashback to the wash hand basin
Bedroom 2; (front) 3.72m x 3.98m carpet flooring, floor to ceiling built-in sliderobe with mirrored doors
Bedroom 3; (front) 3.77m x 4.63m double aspect, carpet flooring, floor to ceiling built-in sliderobe Bedroom 4; (rear) 3.77m x 4.63m carpet flooring, floor to ceiling built-in wardrobes
with mirrored doors
Office/Study; 2.73m x 1.88m carpet flooring
Hotpress; 0.98m x 1.88m
Bathroom; 1.96m x 3.25 white 3 piece suite with separate fully tiled shower enclosure, mahogany surrounds, tiled splash back to the bath, velux window, recess lighting, extractor fan, tiled floor
Outside; overall ground of c. 0.5 acres, block-built boundary walls & entrance pillars, curb & gravelled driveway, (front) garden extensively laid to lawn (rear) garden laid to lawn with mature trees to boundary, large extensive patio area
Double detached garage; 6.62m x 7.40m twin up & over roller doors with separate pvc side door

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