Aghinagh House perfect setting for race fans
The former Georgian rectory is home to Lady Carton De Wjart, mother of noted racehorse trainer Fergie Sutherland, who also lives on the estate with his wife, Ann.
The property had been on the market last ye ar with a guide price of €1.1 million to include 19 acres of land, but was withdrawn, having reached offers of €1.5 million.
This time around, and with the same agents, Michael Daniels and Knight Frank, the property is being pitched at €1.3 million, an average enough price for what’s on offer, considering that lesser and younger houses further down the Lee Valley have had similar price tags.
There should be strong interest in this wonderfully situated period property.
Cork city professionals, as well as UK and US buyers are already nibbling at the bait, says Michael Daniels.
The house and grounds are a manageable size and within 40 minutes drive of the city, which will be a strong draw for commuters.
The house has a dominant position on an isthmus in the Lee. Despite the bloody history of Carrigadrohid, (the Bishop of Cork was hanged from the McCarthy castle on the bridge, from which the hamlet takes its name), this is a peaceful, wooded area beloved by anglers and walkers.
The original builders of Aghinagh House made sure that views were pre-eminent, hence the long and unusual “12 over 12” sash windows that flood the house with light.
Michael Daniels says this is a major selling point: it’s very bright, with three full length windows in the main drawing room alone.
Two-storey over basement, it has functioning staff quarters in the half-basement, three reception rooms at first floor level and five bedrooms overhead again.
The land is in parkland with four paddocks and a single storey gate lodge that guards the entrance and a long, gravel driveway.
The coach-house is described as cosy and charming by Mr Daniels; it comes with four bedrooms, three living rooms and its own bell tower.
There’s stabling for 17 horses with lots of ancillary facilities including a sand arena, hay barn and indoor schooling area.
