See inside former Wicklow schoolhouse that hosted ‘Jackass' TV star's wild parties

Irish Independent

30-05-2025

Located in Castlemacadam, just outside Avoca village, 'Old School House' is steeped in history, serving as the Castlemacadam National School from 1887 before being transformed into an enchanting, granite stone family home that caught the eye of one Hollywood party animal.
Known for his outlandish stunts on MTV's Jackass, and the Wildboyz spin-off with Steve-O, entertainer and actor Chris Pontius purchased Old School House in the early 2000s. Reflecting his 'Party Boy' persona on the hit TV show and cultural phenomenon, a spokesperson for McDonnell Properties revealed that 'many wild parties were reported' during Pontius' ownership.
In pristine condition throughout, having been lovingly maintained and preserved by the current owner, the c.227 sqm home has many original features.
Entering from the parking area of what would have been the schoolmaster's home, a hallway with original flagstone flooring leads to a cosy sitting room with a solid-fuel feature fireplace, a guest bathroom and the utility room, which was the main entrance to the school.
The bespoke handmade kitchen and diner/lounge has glazed floor-to-ceiling sliding doors, a large kitchen island, an oil-fired AGA, granite worktops, hardwood flooring and space for a large dining table to comfortably sit eight people. The lounge area of the room features a multi-solid fuel burning stove and exposed original beams.
Stepping down two steps to a large double room with original wood floors, the main suite has fitted wardrobes, views of the garden, its own access to the back garden and an en suite with a large walk-in shower.
There are three further bedrooms with picture windows and wooden bench seats upstairs, along with a generously sized family bathroom.
Old School House sits on approximately 1.65 acres of well-maintained, south-facing gardens and boasts a large paddock area, with access to a sunny deck provided via the kitchen/living room.