Lovingly restored piece of Louth's history boasts €500,000 pricetag
IF YOU have a spare half a million knocking about, this could be your chance to own a little piece of mid-louth history.
Marlay Farm in Grangebellew was once the model farm for the nearby Rokeby Hall and dates back to 1786.
The property was bought by a couple 17 years ago, when it was just a shell and they have painstakingly restored it, using conservation methods i.e lime motor plaster inside and out and restored/re-constructed all the windows using original old glass.
They have of course brought it up to date with modern conveniences so under floor heating, pumped water system and the house has been entirely re-roofed, re-wired, re-plumbed - pretty much re-built.
Originally built as a model farm, it was commissioned by Archbishop Richard Robinson, first Baron Rokeby Lord Primate of Ireland.
Designed by Francis Johnston in 1786, when he was also engaged to redesign the spire of St Peter's Church in Drogheda, the property was last used as a farm back in the mid-'70s and was left to become completely derelict until it was bought in 1997 by its current owners.
Downstairs there are two reception rooms, one good size drawing room with an open fire, the other a bright study with a wood burning stove, then there is a large bright shower/wet room, and a large boot room/utility room, pantry and then a massive kitchen.
The property is approached via a long-tree lined laneway that leads to a private driveway. If you fancy yourself to the manor born details are with International Property Consultants, Hambleden House, 19-26 Lower Pembroke Street, Dublin 2 on 01 633 3700 or www.colliers.ie.
