Cork Chapter visit to Marlfield House, Newtown Anner and Gurteen Castle
Members gathered on 19th June at Marlfield House where we were given a tour of the house and grounds and were welcomed by Denis English. The house was built in the late 18th century. It was burnt in the troubles and was subsequently rebuilt. The house has a superb Turner Conservatory.
Our next visit was to Newtown Anner. Nigel and Tessa Cathcart were so welcoming and enthusiastic about their estate. They gave us a tour of the house and grounds and introduced us to Michael, the gardener. The house is currently under restoration and is wonderfully atmospheric. The ‘Lady Osborne’ temple has been restored and the Cathcart’s hope to clear the lake in front of it. We admired the vast stable block with its recently renovated sash windows as well as the train tracks running through the yard which were used to transport wood to the house. The walled garden is extensive and a section of wall that had collapsed has also been wonderfully restored as has one of the old greenhouses and a lodge.
Following lunch at Befani’s in Clonmel, the group headed to Gurteen Le Poer Castle where we were warmly welcomed by Gottfried Helnwein and his family. It is incredible how light the castle is inside and absolutely perfect for Gottfriend’s stunning artworks which adorn many of the walls.
A combination of fascinating houses and stunning weather was a recipe for a wonderful trip.
Thanks to Kevin Hurley for organising this event.
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