Stables at Burtown House, Athy, Co.Kildare - Explore & Book
"In the late 17th century, this green and pleasant corner of County Kildare became a Quaker stronghold centred on the village of Ballytore. Nearby Burtown House was built in 1710 by one of their community, and, remarkably, has remained in the same family ever since, often passing through the female line. Today the sustainably-run estate is in the hands of photographer James Fennell and interior designer Joanna, plus their three children. They converted the two-storey stable block into their stylish, cosy home a decade ago. Their more recent move into Burtown House allowed the three-bedroom Stable Yard and one-bedroom Studio to be offered to guests. It was James' mother, renowned artist Lesley Fennell, who developed the gardens into a visitor attraction, adding rare plants from her mother's collection, and reclaiming and rewilding paddocks and woodlands. She still oversees the planting and lives across the stable yard. It was James who saw how popular their small cafe was and had the bold idea of adding The Green Barn in 2016 - a purpose-built farm-to-fork restaurant showcasing 48 kinds of home-grown organic produce. It also comes with a bar, south-facing terrace, artisan farm shop and gallery. So now, tranquil Burtown offers a truly unique and wholesome experience for couples, outdoor enthusiasts, plant-lovers, foodies and families alike. Highs Rustic-chic interiors successfully mix historic and contemporary, artistic and practical: family heirlooms, custom-made furniture, colourful kilimsDelicious, sustainable food, much of it from the walled vegetable garden (in continuous use for over 150 years)Stables guests get free access to 12 acres of gorgeous gardens, including an orchard, woodlands, sculptures and yew walk, plus 180 acres of farmland, wildflower meadows and willow fieldsEasily accessed just off the M9, 45 minutes from DublinA wonderful sense of history: no other house in Co. Kildare has been in the same family for over 300 years Lows The restaurant is closed Mondays-Tuesdays, and only open for dinner Fridays and SaturdaysAvailability can be an issue in the summer when weddings are understandably popular You'll need a car to get here and explore the areaThe gardens are open to day visitors February-October but you always get the private walled Stable Garden to yourselvesThe ambiance is rustic rather than luxurious in the cottages, but we loved it!" - Nadine Mellor
