A rare treasure that has remained in the same family for hundreds of years, this vacation home rental in Ireland is a trip through history. We love how the former stables have been transformed with such warmth and classic country style and the lovely heritage gardens that have been tended to by generations. 

Set in the former stable yards of an 18th-century family estate, this vacation home rental in Ireland is a cleverly restored former barn that now houses a three-bedroom home. Built in 1710 by Quakers, and passed down through successive generations, the property is a classic example of a grand Georgian estate, and is surrounded by over 10 acres of woodlands and heritage gardens, as well as an edible organic garden that supplies the property and restaurant.

Set adjacent to the villa with a large private courtyard garden, the structure's rustic stone facade looks as it has for centuries from the outside, but inside, the areas that once housed livestock have been repurposed into a genteel country residence. From the entrance hall, the living room is a bright an intimate lounge with a warming fireplace and large windows overlooking the gardens. 

One of three double bedrooms is hidden behind a bookcase, and the large scullery kitchen and dining area were restored from the former stables. Upstairs, is the en-suite master with south-facing windows and a bright and airy twin room, with views of the courtyard gardens and farm. Personally decorated by the owners with a finely curated selection of antiques, rustic finishes and elegant accents, the interiors have a timeless appeal. 

The terrace is a great place for dining - weather permitting - and the stunning gardens which are open to the public from February to October, are considered to be some of the finest in Ireland.

The full-service restaurant and shop is set within the front gates of the estate overlooking the kitchen gardens and is designed in the style of old Scandinavian barns with a New England twist. Serving lunch and dinner, the menu is a seasonal delight of traditional Irish and international fare. There is a stream through the woodlands, meadow walks through ancient park and farm lands, with the resident cows, donkeys and friendly dogs to join you if you like.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

A welcome basket of goodies with preserves, bread, butter and organic farm eggs, homemade elderflower if in season, coffee and honesty bar with a selection of organic wines. Local guide book, Wifi throughout with cable TV. L'Occitan bath products, laundry facilities.

AROUND

Less than an hour west of Dublin, the Athy area of County Kildare is an area of rich historical interest, having originally been the Duke of Leinster's lands, and then in the 1650s settled by Quakers. 

The local village of Ballytore was the very first Quaker settlement in Ireland or England with the original buildings still standing. It's also home to one of the oldest pubs in Ireland that hosts excellent traditional music. The nearby village of Athy is just 10 minutes from the house and is the spiritual home to bluegrass music in Ireland, hosting some of the best traditional music to be found. 

Thirty minutes north is Kildare. Established in 480AD. it's one of the oldest in Ireland with a historic and very walkable town center with a wide selection of pubs, cafes and shops. The town hosts many fairs and festivals throughout the year including Derby Week Festival, which is the highlight of the annual racing calendar at the famous Curragh Racecourse. 

LOCATION

Kildare, Ireland. Nearest Airport: Dublin International (85km) 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Late Spring through to early Fall for the best weather