Foreign Property News | Posted by Zarni Kyaw
The 1,120-acre Abbey Leix Estate in Laois County, Ireland, listed last week, asking for offers above €20 Million (US$22.7 million).
Its vast grounds are adorned with 10 additional outbuildings and an important collection of trees and woods, being that most of Ireland’s woodlands have been depleted.
The land’s history dates to as early as the 12th century, when monks settled the area due to the nearby River Nore, according to the news release.
The property’s present-day woods evolved from this settlement.
An oak tree dating back to this period still remains, making it reportedly the oldest oak tree in Ireland, according to a statement.
A one-mile-long wooded driveway snakes through the property leading to the house, which was originally owned by Thomas Vesey, the second Lord Knapton, and eventually the first Viscount de Vesci.
Since its completion in the late 1700s, the Georgian-style mansion has undergone several additions and renovations. It was restored in 1995 by the most recent owner, international banker and businessman and president of the Irish Georgian Society Sir David Davies, with the help of conservation architect John J. O’Connell, according to the news release.
“Abbey Leix is one of the most distinguished 18th-century houses in Ireland and, following a spectacular restoration, it is also one of the most congenial,” David Ashmere, listing agent from Sotheby’s International Realty, wrote in an email.
Along with restoring some of the original architectural features of the house, renovations consisted of redesigning the northwest corner of the house to add a new family room, kitchen and butler’s pantry; and downsized the existing library to create a new state room and smaller library. The house comprises nine bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.
The property is listed jointly with Sotheby’s International Realty and Colliers International.
Ref: Property Report
