Go Exploring at Lough Bawn House

Posted on 20/05/202203/08/2022 by HIBlog

Book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House!

The house and estate has been in the same family since it was built in 1820 by George Battesby, the current occupier, Verity’s, Great Great Great Grandfather. The house is being lovingly restored by Verity, having returned from England to live in the family home. Verity ran her own catering and events company in Gloucestershire for over 20 years. Her passion for cooking & entertaining shines through. Guests enjoy an extensive and varied breakfast with much of the ingredients being grown or reared by Verity herself, and delicious dinners are on offer. Breakfast is eaten in the large newly restored dining room, with wonderful views over the lough and of the parading peacocks on the rolling lawns.

Both of the large, en-suite rooms have fine views down the length of Lough Bane and over the wooded hills while the single room and the twin/double room have sweeping views of the surrounding parklands. Guests are warmly welcomed and encouraged to relax in the homely drawing room in front of a roaring fire or to explore one of the many local historical sites, gardens, walks or cultural entertainments on offer.

What to do whilst at Lough Bawn House!

There is so much you can do while staying in Lough Bawn House! Travel westwards along the River Shannon to the historic town of Athlone, Mullingar and Kells. Heading east brings you to the vibrant city of Dublin! Ramble through beech tree forest at Mullaghmeen or cycle on the Royal Canal Greenway and Old Railway Line.

Play golf at courses in Mullingar, Virginia, Kells Headfort, Slieve Russel, and the K Club. Visit the Lough Crew Megalithic Cairns & Passage Tombs, Hill of Uineach and Newgrange. Visit Tullynally Castle, Belvedere House, Loughcrew, and Ballindoolin gardens. Explore Ireland’s Ancient East with historic places like Fore Abbey with it’s Nellie and Nancy walk and Trim Castle. Kilbeggan Distillery Experience, Lockes Museum, Causey Farm, Sheridan’s Cheesemongers and farm shop.

Click HERE to learn more or to book a stay with Verity and go exploring at Lough Bawn House

Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails

Posted on 06/05/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Are you looking for an activities holiday this year? If the outdoors is your thing then why not try the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trails.

There are currently 35km of new mountain bike trails (MTB), with trailheads at Kinnitty and Baunreagh. These trails, which are waymarked in one direction and designed specially for mountain bike use, vary in difficulty. They range from the grade trails: ‘blue’ (moderate, with some single-track sections) to ‘red’ (difficult/severe, with challenging climbs and tricky descent).

The trails have been developed by Coillte in partnership with Offaly and Laois County Councils and are funded by the Dept. of Rural and Community Development.

There will eventually be 100km of biking tracks to explore on the Slieve Bloom Mountain Bike Trail, so keep an eye on the site for new developments!

Where to Stay?

While you are considering being on the adventurous side you can book your stay with Hannah & Paddy at Roundwood House which is set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Just over an hour from Dublin, Roundwood House is surrounded by mature trees, lawns, gardens and delightful, extensive outbuildings. It is a historic home of architectural interest and was once described by Desmond Guinness, co-founder of the Irish Georgian Society, as having a “marvellous doll’s house-like quality”.

A rambling avenue leads you through a welcoming committee of animals and into a bright, spacious hall. There is a drawing room, study and dining room, where the combination of log fires, antique furniture and absence of televisions may actually make you believe you’ve been transported back to the 18th century. (A bottle of wine tends to hasten the trip.)

The area is picturesque, unspoiled and peaceful – a delight for hikers and cyclists of all abilities. Horse-riding, fishing and golfing are also available locally. There is no reason why you can not take some time off and feel the wind in your face while you are out on the mountain bike and then relax in the evening and let Paddy cook you dinner that will awaken all your taste buds!

Click HERE to book your stay! Do not delay!

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Valentines at Lorum Old Rectory

Posted on 14/02/202214/04/2023 by Aidan Gallagher

This is the perfect opportunity to treat your Valentines at Lorum Old Rectory. The house sits peacefully on the slopes above the River Barrow at Kilgreaney, about halfway between Bagenalstown and Borris. Bobbie Smith & her daughter Rebecca welcome you to their home, both renowned for their warm welcome and splendid home-baking.

Special Mention

Special thanks to Nicola Brady who included us in “Grown-up getaways: 10 adult-only hotel, spa and country house breaks in Ireland” in the Irish Independent on Sunday. Nicola captures what is so special about Lorum Old Rectory. Nicola describes it as ‘home to a gorgeous collection of homely guest rooms, complete with overflowing bookcases and four-poster beds.

Staying at Lorum Old Rectory

Treat your Valentine at Lorum Old Rectory simply because we offer guests relaxed, Country House style Bed & Breakfast Accommodation where the emphasis is on making guests feel ‘at home’.

The broad, high-ceilinged hallway at Lorum is both elegant and inviting. With a commanding presence is the 18th century grandfather clock marking time with its comforting chime. The glow of fresh flowers reflected in the mirror over the hallstand. All adding to the sense of warmth and generosity is immediately conveyed to the visitor. The spacious, pleasingly-proportioned drawing room, where our Bed & Breakfast guests may enjoy afternoon tea, drinks before dinner and coffee afterwards, has large windows that frame magnificent views of Mount Leinster and the western hills. Three large couches – ideal for perusing the many books that the family has collected or continuing a lively dinner conversation. The room’s many curios and photographs give a lively sense of the family’s and the area’s past. The graceful dining room, small “snug” and the family’s study (where Bed & Breakfast guests may watch television) are also off the main hallway.

Click Here to book a stay in Lorum Old Rectory and treat your Valentine!

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Amazing Food at Roundwood House

Posted on 08/02/202214/04/2023 by HIBlog

Amazing food is essential, especially when you go away for a few days! Roundwood House specialises in amazing food!

Hannah, Paddy and their family are the proud owners of Roundwood House in Mountrath, Co Laois. Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains which is just over an hour from Dublin. Roundwood House is surrounded by mature trees, lawns, gardens and delightful, extensive outbuildings. It is a historic home of architectural interest and was once described by Desmond Guinness, co-founder of the Irish Georgian Society, as having a “marvellous doll’s house-like quality”.

The rambling avenue leads you through a welcoming committee of animals and into a bright, spacious hall. There is a drawing room, study and dining room, where the combination of log fires, antique furniture and absence of televisions may actually make you believe you’ve been transported back to the 18th century. (A bottle of wine tends to hasten the trip.)

Amazing Food

Hannah & Paddy are very much the hands on type! Paddy has an amazing skill with the wooden spoon and a whisk because every dish that leaves the kitchen has character, flavour & indeed a work of art! Paddy’s attention to detail on the plate ensures that you will not forget your dining experience at Roundwood House! Accompanied by a well chosen bottle of wine means you have little or no worries while you stay at Roundwood House!

Click Here to book a stay in Roundwood House and enjoy amazing food!

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