This Castle is For Sale with Michael Pigott Auctioneer
Ballea Castle, former home of the McCarthy’s of Blarney and Ballea, dates from the 13th century. It sits on c. 50 acres along the Owenabue River and is the oldest occupied castle in Ireland. In the 20th century the towers were extended to make an L-shaped structure. It is a listed building.
Outside, a series of ancient stone outbuildings comprising stables and tack rooms wrap around the courtyard. The beautifully mature walled gardens are magnificently planted and maintained in keeping with this residence.
As a family home, Ballea Castle has always been maintained. It offers a great opportunity for further restoration and development as a home and/or a commercial venture.
The main family accommodation has 7 en-suite bedrooms, including the Ambassador suite. The ground floor includes 2 large entrance halls, very large sitting room adjacent to the banqueting hall, breakfast room, kitchen, utility and conservatory. The wing consists of staff accommodation including a kitchen, 4 bedrooms & shower rooms. Across the courtyard is a farmhouse, known as ‘The Stable Mews’ with 2 bedrooms, study, lounge, kitchen, 2 bathrooms and a large hallway with spiral staircase. The lodge at the back entrance has 3 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge and bathroom.
The stable yard and haggart comprise of a large barn adjoining five stables, tack room, blacksmiths shed, workshop, Dutch barn and numerous ancient stone cottages.
This unique Castle is situated in a prime location, just 8km from Cork Airport, 10km from the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, 20km to Kinsale & 13km south of Cork city centre.
NOTE: There was previous planning permission (ref 81/2185) granted for an equestrian centre/recreational facility of 28 individual units (29,550 sq. ft) and a further 21 stables (4,224 sq. ft).
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