Fancy owning a regal North Cork property that is reputed to have once slept King James II?

Irish Independent

21-05-2025

Carrigacunna Castle is a breathtakingly-restored Georgian abode set alongside a beautifully-preserved Norman-style tower house, both commanding a spectacular position overlooking the meandering River Blackwater in North Cork, and once reportedly hosted King James II.
The Castle is situated just off the L1224 road, between Killavullen and Ballyhooly, right in the heart of the Blackwater valley and only a few minutes down the road from nearby Mallow. It had previously been put up for sale in 2024 under online auctioneer 'Auctioneera' at €2.7 million, but has now been placed back on the market at a slightly cheaper asking price.
This property, part of which was originally built by Henry Foott in 1826, boasts an unrivalled elevated position, offering panoramic views of the Blackwater Valley, extending toward the Ballyhoura and Galtee mountains.
The house comes with 7,500 square feet of space, the historic Norman tower house next door, as well as an indoor swimming pool. However, with a €2.5 million price tag, only a royal bank account will be able to afford this magnificent old building.
One of the estate's most remarkable features is its tower house castle, a superbly preserved 16th-century structure built by the Nagle family.
This Anglo-Irish stronghold stands as a testament to the area's medieval history. Sir Richard Nagle of Clogher, a key figure in the Irish Parliament of 1689, was among the prominent members of the family.
The castle which has been fully restored, offers a rare glimpse into Ireland's feudal past and provides a stunning contrast to the modern elements of the estate.
The Nagle family have a Norman lineage that established a stronghold in the area. Among the most notable figures in the family was Sir Richard Nagle, who served as private secretary to King James II. Following the Jacobite defeat at the Battle of the Boyne in 1692, Sir Richard Nagle forfeited the estate. According to legend, King James II spent a night at Carrigacunna during his retreat.
In the 19th century, the Footts undertook extensive enhancements to the estate. The Georgian residence was expanded to include a three-bay extension, and the grounds were landscaped to incorporate a grand 1 km-long beech-lined avenue, rising parallel to the river and leading to the main house.
Over the past two decades, Carrigacunna has undergone an exceptional transformation, blending historical elements with striking contemporary design. The property also features two double-height glazed atriums, seamlessly linking the traditional architecture with modern elements.
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The residence includes four main reception rooms and three luxurious bedroom suites. Additionally, the first-floor offices could easily be converted into extra bedroom accommodation if required. There is also a one-bedroom annex located in the Fisherman's cottage adjoining the main house which would be ideal for guests. A notable feature is the indoor swimming pool, which Estate Agents Lisney Sotheby's says, 'adds an element of leisure and sophistication'.
Meanwhile, the estate itself spans approximately 18.2 hectares (45 acres), with 5 acres dedicated to pasture, 37 acres of woodland, and the remaining 3 acres comprising gardens and amenity spaces.
On the estate is a walled garden spanning approximately one acre. Within this enclosed space lies a refurbished Victorian glasshouse, alongside carefully cultivated vegetable, flower, and rose gardens. An orchard and soft fruit areas provide seasonal produce, while a chicken run and potting shed enhance the estate's self-sufficiency.
Lisney Sotheby's says that Carrigacunna is not only a 'remarkable private residence' but also a 'historic landmark that has been thoughtfully restored to honour its past while embracing modern luxury.
'With its commanding views, extraordinary architecture, and extensive lands, this property represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Ireland's rich heritage in one of the country's most picturesque and desirable locations' says Lisney Sotheby's.
In 2019, the site sold for €1.485 million, but since the restoration the property is now on the market at a whopping €2.5 million, making it the fifth most expensive property for public sale in Cork at the moment.