Heather House Muckross, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal, F94A7X9
This charming Victorian gate lodge dating from the late 1800s is steeped in history and character. It was originally built as the gate lodge to St Ernan's House, home to John Hamilton, fondly remembered as 'the benevolent landlord' for his kindness to his tenants during the Famine era.
The property takes its name from its original heather thatched roof, a nod to its rich heritage.
The house has been thoughtfully maintained and enhanced while retaining its period charm. The sitting room features a grand bay slide and sash window, cosy solid fuel stove with a recently re-lined flue and bespoke beechwood built-in units, creating a warm and inviting space. An oil-fired range in the kitchen has been recently serviced, and the property has been repainted throughout with fresh carpeting added.
Window pelmets in the hallway and the room opening off the sitting room were custom made from native elm sourced directly from the Heather House property, adding a unique and authentic touch. A new walk-in, accessible shower was installed on the ground floor in June 2024, offering modern convenience.
Set within a beautifully established garden, the grounds are a true highlight of the property.
A vintage sundial sits among an abundance of perennial flowers providing year-round colour, and the course of a stream formerly serving a mill in the locality can be traced to the rear of the property. Heritage apple trees and mature oak, ash and elm trees enhance the sense of maturity and privacy, and the original stone gate pillars stand as a striking reminder of the property's historic origins.
The Heather House offers a rare opportunity to acquire a character-filled period home with a fascinating history, modern comforts, and an exceptional private garden setting in the sought after address of St Ernan's.