Historic Irish Village of Lyons Listed for €20 Million as Luxury Estate
The charming Irish village of Lyons, consisting of 20 acres of characterful stone cottages, could be yours for a staggering €20 million (£17.5 million). Tucked away in County Kildare, this historic spot was purchased by Ryanair's co-founder, Tony Ryan, back in the 1990s and meticulously restored, though its origins date back centuries.
A Glimpse into the Past and Present
Listed as 'one of Ireland's most remarkable private estate villages' by Sotheby's International Realty, the Village of Lyons was first developed in the 18th century as a mining village. Many of the buildings still standing today date back to the 1820s, offering a tangible link to Irish history.
Now owned by businessman Barry O'Callaghan, who purchased the wider estate in 2016 after Ryan passed away in 2007, it operates as a five-star hotel known as Cliff Lyons. All of the rustic cottages are in beautiful condition, totalling 47 bedrooms, providing guests with an elegant country retreat.
Restoration and Modern Comforts
The rose-clad homes are carefully placed in 'intimate squares and gardens,' according to the listing. Each cottage has been restored to feature its Georgian charm alongside modern comforts, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
Nicola Vance of Sotheby's International Realty told The Telegraph, 'The buildings are so beautiful – they look like they have been there for hundreds of years despite being built in the Nineties. They were built with longevity in mind.'
Exclusive Features and Surroundings
Ryan's estate house, located within the village, is still owned by his family and is not for sale. The area is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, sitting only 30 minutes from bustling Dublin. Accessible only by a gated avenue, the village boasts landscaped courtyards and a serene lake.
Historically, the village included a pub, an old school house, a lock yard, and police barracks. There was also a flourmill operated by Joseph P Shackleton, related to the renowned Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. However, it later became a roller mill in 1887 and burned down, a turning point that led to neglect as shops closed and buildings deteriorated.
Revival as a Sanctuary
Today, the restored village is described as 'a truly enchanting sanctuary,' with orchards and 'placid waterways' to enjoy. The mill now operates as an eatery called the Shackleton Mill Restaurant and Terrace, adding to its allure.
Sotheby's David Byrne predicts that the purchaser will 'likely be an ultra-high-net-worth individual' who sees the spot as an Irish estate or investment opportunity. Within the private village, there is a spa as well as multiple dining and entertaining spaces. Outside, golf courses, country houses, and impressive farms are nearby, enhancing its appeal as a luxury destination.
