The enduring popularity of TV costume dramas and films set in grand houses and country estates from the past shows that there is a huge appetite for the elegance and extravagance of fine country house living.
Even if we cannot afford to buy and run our own country house complete with extensive grounds, there is always the option of holidaying in one.
Hidden Ireland country houses are located all over the Emerald Isle, offering charming historic features, beautiful architecture, expansive grounds and fascinating stories dating back centuries.
While no two Hidden Ireland properties are exactly the same, many of the historic country houses come with features and highlights that are commonly found in country houses with a certain style and panache. These can make all the difference to your stay, especially if you are fans of fine dining and country living – and fancy yourself as Lord or Lady of the Manor.
Warm and welcoming dining rooms
Life in a country house has long involved sumptuous meals, delicious, home-cooked food and ingredients sourced locally – even from the house’s own wider estate.
Many Hidden Ireland holiday properties offer in-house dining, with meals cooked by owners and local chefs for a truly authentic experience.
Dining rooms are carefully designed and decorated to feel warm and welcoming – even before anyone arrives to enjoy a meal together. The walls and floors set off antique furniture and exquisite crockery, cutlery and serving dishes and the comfortable chairs mean that you are happy to linger well after you have finished eating.
Cosy and charming bedrooms
When you feel tired after a long day sightseeing, visiting seeing friends or enjoying getting to know your local area, you need to know that you can look forward to a good night’s sleep.
Country house bedrooms are true havens of relaxation and calm. Large beds, covered with top-quality bed linen await, while there is plenty of space to store your clothes and belongings.
Many Hidden Ireland properties have ensuite bathrooms attached to the main bedrooms, for even easier morning and nighttime ablutions. If you have come away with the express goal of regaining energy and relaxing after a busy period in your life, country house bedrooms will fit the bill nicely.
Well-tended, relaxing grounds
Many pivotal scenes in costume dramas set in country houses take place in the grounds. Whether it be a first meeting, a proposal of marriage, an argument or an important decision made, the lush, green backdrop adds texture and gravitas to any fictional scene.
When you choose Hidden Ireland holiday accommodation set in its own grounds, you can enjoy many key moments outdoors too, without even having to leave the boundaries of the property.
Take a stroll around the grounds, bring your breakfast or supper outside and eat al fresco and while away an afternoon seeing how many different native Irish birds, flowers and other wildlife you can spot.
Architectural designs
Finally, life in a country house in Ireland is made even more pleasant by being surrounded by stunning sights at every turn.
This is especially true when you consider that architecture.
Each hidden Ireland country house has been lovingly and carefully maintained to protect and conserve the fascinating and often original architectural details that are in every room.
From ornate staircases to imposing fireplaces; dainty doorknobs to marvellous mantlepieces, architecture fans will find much to admire in Hidden Ireland country houses all over Ireland. Often, local areas, customs, materials and folklore will feature in the architecture.
Don’t forget to ask your hosts about any historical stories depicted in the details all around you when you arrive.
If you need to contact Hidden Ireland to find out more about our country houses, cottage or properties please click HERE
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