Victorian Country House For Sale in Co. Donegal

Key Features
– Impressive late Victorian country house with 5 principal reception rooms and 9 double bedrooms
– River frontage
– 2-bedroom gate lodge
– Mature parkland and manicured gardens
– Traditional courtyard including stables and former coach house

Claragh House
Claragh House is a remarkable 19th-century country home occupying an elevated and tranquil setting above the River Leannan, closeby to the heritage town of Ramelton. Set within about 21.7 acres of private parkland, woodland, and river frontage, the estate offers complete privacy, scenic views, and a remarkable sense of seclusion. This offers a rare opportunity to acquire a historic and architecturally significant estate in one of Donegal’s most beautiful and unspoiled regions, within easy reach of Ramelton, Letterkenny, and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Approached by dual avenues, one of which crosses a picturesque three-arched stone bridge, the house is privately set within stunning parkland. The driveway leads to a formal gravel forecourt and turning circle, framed by mature planting and manicured lawns. The house itself is constructed of snecked limestone, red-brick pilasters and ornate Tudor-style chimneystacks. Tall sash windows and the asymmetry of the main elevation reflect the elegance of late Victorian country house architecture.

Internally, the house extends to approx. 760 sq m (8,189 sq ft) over three principal floors, including a basement and attic. The interiors retain many original features, including high ceilings, decorative cornicing, timber panelling, and period fireplaces in marble and carved wood. The layout includes a formal drawing room, dining room, and a striking reception hall with a sweeping staircase, alongside a cosy sitting room, billiards room, and a spacious kitchen with an Aga and French doors opens onto a sheltered south-facing patio.

The first floor includes nine double bedrooms and two bathrooms, with the principal suite enjoying elevated river views. The attic provides three further rooms, offering scope for additional accommodation or storage.

Gate Lodge
A gate lodge, located at the secondary entrance to the estate, is a beautifully preserved stone cottage. Nestled among mature trees alongside a stream, it offers complete privacy and a storybook charm. Internally, it features two bedrooms but offers potential to provide guest accommodation, staff quarters or as a holiday rental.

Outbuildings
To the side of Claragh House is a traditional courtyard with original stone outbuildings, including a former coach house, stables, and cobbled stalls, all presenting excellent restoration potential.

Gardens and Grounds
The gardens and grounds offer sweeping lawns, mature trees, herbaceous borders, and a sheltered kitchen garden. The land comprises open pasture and mature parkland descending to the river, creating a naturally flowing and picturesque landscape ideal for a variety of amenity or leisure uses. In all the lands extend to about 21.7 acres.

History
Rich in character and deeply rooted in local history, Claragh has been associated with the Watt family since 1725. The current stone-built residence was constructed around 1890 for Andrew A. Watt, a prominent figure in the industrial development of both Ramelton and nearby Derry. Watt was the driving force behind one of Ireland’s most successful distilleries of the 19th and early 20th centuries. His flagship whiskey, The Tyrconnell, became an international success, and remains in production today. Claragh House stands as a testament to this legacy, offering both grandeur and grace in equal measure.

Local Information
Claragh House, located in the north-westerly tip of Ireland in County Donegal, enjoys a setting in one of Ireland’s most beautiful and unspoilt regions. Renowned for its deep history and breathtaking natural beauty, Donegal is characterised for its dramatic sea cliffs, rolling green hills, and pristine sandy beaches. The county’s rugged Atlantic coastline, open landscapes, and traditional rural character create a landscape that is both striking and timeless.

The area offers plenty to explore, including Glenveagh National Park (21 km) and the nearby Fanad Peninsula, located between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, is known for its dramatic coastline, stunning beaches, and the well-known Fanad Head Lighthouse. For golf enthusiasts, nearby courses include Portsalon Golf Club (23 km), and Rosapenna’s (26 km) world renowned and exclusive golf links including the Sandy Hill Golf links, the Old Tom Morris Links and St. Patricks Golf links. St. Patrick’s Golf Links ranked 49th in the world’s top 100 golf course in 2023-2024. Each of the golf links enjoy breathtaking views of Donegal’s rugged coastline.

The nearby town of Ramelton (3.5 km), known as the gateway to the Fanad Peninsula, offers shops, pubs, a café, and a restaurant. It’s recognised as a heritage town for its Georgian architecture and market square, and it sits at the mouth of the River Lennon. Rathmullan (14 km), a seaside village on the west shore of Lough Swilly, features a sandy beach, pier, local pubs, and the well-renowned Rathmullan House Hotel. Just 8 km away, Letterkenny is Donegal’s largest town, offering a full range of shops, services, restaurants and hotels.

Claragh House is well connected for both regional and international travel. Donegal Airport lies around 55 km away, offering regular flights to Dublin with City of Derry Airport 60 km distant which offers UK flight options. For longer journeys, Belfast International Airport is approximately 138 km away.

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