Castlecoote

Overview

Nestled on the banks of the River Suck, Castlecoote is a tranquil townland in the civil parish of Fuerty, just off the R366 near Roscommon town. The focal point of the area is Castlecoote House, a lovingly restored 17th‑century mansion that sits within the earthwork enclosure of an earlier medieval castle. The River Suck loops around the estate, providing excellent trout and coarse‑fish angling, while the surrounding countryside forms part of the celebrated Suck Valley Way – a 100 km long‑distance walking loop that showcases the gentle lowlands of west Roscommon and east Galway.

History

The name Castlecoote derives from Sir Charles Coote, a prominent figure in the 1641 rebellion who took possession of the fortified residence on the site in 1616. The original stronghold is thought to have been built between 1570 and 1616 and was linked to the MacGeraghty clan of Fuerty before Coote reinforced it with gun loops and a basement tower. During the 1640s the castle endured three separate attacks by Irish Confederate forces.

By the late 17th century the medieval castle had fallen into ruin, and a new house was erected within its walls. The present Castlecoote House reflects the architectural tastes of the second half of the 1600s, with later 18th‑century additions that introduced elegant Georgian features, fine plasterwork ceilings and marble fireplaces. In the 1700s the estate passed to the Gunning family, whose daughters – the celebrated Gunning sisters – became the Duchess of Hamilton and the Countess of Coventry. Their portraits by Sir Joshua Reynolds still hang in the main hall, underscoring the house’s aristocratic connections.

The 20th century saw ownership by Henry D. Strevens, a noted equestrian, before the property entered a period of neglect. In 1997 a new owner purchased the derelict house – then a cavernous shell with no floors, stairs or windows – and embarked on a five‑year restoration using some of Ireland’s finest craftsmen. The work involved underpinning foundations, consolidating the remaining castle towers, rebuilding the mill‑race walls, landscaping the grounds and restoring the ballroom to its former splendour. Today, Castlecoote House stands as a testament to Irish craftsmanship and heritage preservation.

Notable History & Heritage

• The Gunning sisters, famed for their beauty in the 18th century, were born at Castlecoote. Their portraits by Sir Joshua Reynolds are displayed in the house’s main hall.
• The estate’s restoration (1997‑2002) was carried out by a team of specialist craftsmen, preserving original stonework such as the gun loops and musket chambers.
• Castlecoote was the overall winner of Ireland’s Best Kept Town competition in 2013, highlighting the community’s dedication to maintaining the village’s charm.

What to See & Do

Castlecoote House and Gardens

The house is a romantic hideaway that blends 18th‑century elegance with the rugged character of its medieval predecessor. Visitors can admire:

• Architectural details such as gun loops in the basement towers, original musket chambers overlooking the entrance steps, and a restored ballroom with intricate plasterwork.
• Interior finishes including marble fireplaces, Georgian woodwork and period furnishings that convey the layered history of the estate.
• The surrounding grounds, which feature a formal garden, an apple orchard, an icehouse, a medieval bridge and three lookout towers that remain almost completely intact. The landscaped lawns provide picturesque spots for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

Guided tours of the house are available by appointment during the opening months, offering insight into the building’s evolution from fortified castle to genteel country house.

Garden Orchard & Apple Products

Castlecoote is a proud member of the Ireland West Garden Trail. The walled orchard contains rare heritage varieties, including:

• White Crofton – famously George Bernard Shaw’s favourite apple.
• Leixlip
• Bloody Butcher
• Several other Crofton family cultivars.

The estate produces its own apple‑based treats: apple butter, apple juice, apple sponge cake and seasonal apple pies, all available in the on‑site café and shop.

River Suck & Angling

The River Suck encircles the property and is renowned for both trout and coarse‑fish angling. Anglers can cast from the riverbank or use the well‑maintained access points that run alongside the estate. The river also forms part of the Suck Valley Way, a marked walking route that passes directly through Castlecoote.

Walking & Outdoor Activities

Castlecoote is a natural waypoint on the Suck Valley Way. Stage 6 of the trail finishes in the village after a moderate 13.5 km walk from Corbally, while Stage 5 approaches from Castlerea. The path follows quiet country roads, meadowland, bog, woodland and riverbanks, offering ample opportunities for bird‑watching, photography and immersion in the rolling green landscape of County Roscommon.

Events & Festivals

• Percy French Festival – Held each July, this celebration honours the Roscommon‑born songwriter and poet with live music, storytelling and family‑friendly activities on the estate grounds. The 2024 edition marked the 16th annual festival and featured a keynote address by former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
• Harvest Festival – Taking place in September and October, the festival showcases local produce, craft stalls and seasonal food demonstrations, often featuring the estate’s own apple‑based treats.
• Summer Musical Evenings – Throughout the summer months, the restored ballroom hosts regular musical evenings, ranging from traditional Irish sessions to classical chamber music.

These events are open to the public and usually require advance booking, especially when coinciding with guided tours.

Castlecoote Stores – Café & Shop

Operating for over 30 years, Castlecoote Stores offers a small café and shop right on the estate grounds. Opening hours are 07:00‑23:00 daily. The menu includes fresh tea and coffee (€1), cream buns, homemade scones, sandwiches, jams, and the estate’s signature apple butter. The shop also sells garden‑related gifts and locally produced goods. Contact: +353 90 666 3394 or email oscarneilan@hotmail.com.

Accommodation & Food

The current owner, Kevin Finnerty, operates a self‑catering country house accommodation within the restored mansion, allowing guests to stay overnight and experience the estate after hours. The accommodation is suitable for families and groups, with a maximum capacity of 12 guests. Bookings are made via the estate’s website.

On‑site, Castlecoote Stores offers a small café serving fresh tea, coffee, cream buns, sandwiches and a selection of homemade scones, jams and the estate’s signature apple butter. Visitors can enjoy an afternoon tea in the garden pavilion, overlooking the River Suck.

Awards & Recognition

• Ireland’s Best Kept Town – Overall Winner 2013 – Castlecoote received the top prize in the all‑Ireland competition, reflecting the community’s pride and upkeep of the village.
• Member of the Ireland West Garden Trail – Recognised for its rare apple orchard and historic garden features.

Notable Guests & Events

The Percy French Festival has attracted high‑profile speakers, including former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, who delivered a keynote address in 2024. The festival’s reputation for quality music and cultural programming makes it a highlight of the summer calendar.

Practical Information

Getting there – Castlecoote is easily reached via the R366 from Roscommon town (approximately 10 km north). The estate is about 5 km southwest of Roscommon, with clear signage from the main road.

Nearby Attractions

• Boyle Abbey – a well‑preserved Cistercian ruin a short drive north.
• King House – historic Georgian mansion and visitor centre in Roscommon town.
• Clonalis House – ancestral home of the O’Conor family, offering guided tours and a museum.

Whether you are drawn by the layered history of a fortified castle turned elegant mansion, the tranquil riverside setting, the rare apple orchard, or the lively summer festivals, Castlecoote provides a memorable slice of Irish heritage and natural beauty.