Former Rectory For Sale in Co. Donegal

Key Features
– Impressive period home with intact period features throughout
– Elevated site offering impressive views
– Zoned land
– 6 bedrooms
– About 7.6 acres comprising of gardens, mature grounds and woodland providing privacy

Built around 1830, The Old Rectory is a distinguished former rectory on an elevated site just outside Killybegs. Surrounded by about 7.6 acres of mature garden grounds and woodland, this elegant Georgian residence enjoys a peaceful countryside setting within easy reach of local amenities. The Old Rectory combines heritage, space, and seclusion in a spectacular setting on the Wild Atlantic Way. Whether as a family home or a country retreat, it presents a rare opportunity to acquire a distinctive period home in this region.

The house is approached via a long, tree-lined avenue that opens onto a generous forecourt at the front of the property. The symmetrical façade is framed by a refined stone porch with double doors, consistent with the elegance and proportions typical of Georgian architecture.

Inside, the house offers a wealth of period features and generous proportions throughout. High ceilings, 12 feet on the ground floor and 10 feet upstairs, create a wonderful sense of light and space, while large sash windows allow natural light to flood the interiors throughout the day.

The entrance porch leads into a wide central hall, which gives access to both the formal drawing room and the sitting room. The sitting room features a classic fireplace, while the drawing room is particularly notable for its bay windows and an ornate period fireplace, ideal spaces for both entertaining and everyday family life.

Further along the hall is a cosy family room and a cloakroom with guest bathroom. A connecting corridor leads towards the kitchen and adjoining conservatory, both of which open directly onto a sheltered flagstone courtyard. A well-equipped utility room is located just off the kitchen/dining area.

Upstairs, the accommodation is spacious and versatile, comprising a principal bedroom along with five further bedrooms and two bathrooms. The layout offers flexibility for growing families, guests, or for potential commercial / income generating opportunities.

In total, the house extends to approx. 398.9 sq. m / 4,294 sq. ft, as shown on the accompanying floorplans.

Outbuildings
There is a traditional three-bay, single-storey garden outbuilding set to the rear of the courtyard. This extends to about 21 sq. m / 229 sq. ft.

Gardens and Grounds
A real highlight of The Old Rectory is its gardens and surrounding land which provide privacy and seclusion. The beautifully maintained grounds include a sheltered, wraparound flagstone courtyard. There are pathways meandering through the gardens, including a stream which runs through the mature woodland to the south east.

The gardens are dotted with a variety of mature trees, including Beech, Oak, Chestnut, and Douglas Fir, creating an idyllic, parkland-like setting. To the rear of the courtyard are the remains of a former walled garden and stable block, offering further potential for restoration or development, subject to planning.

In all the lands extend to about 3.10 hectares / 7.66 acres.

Zoning
Under the development plan, a portion of the land is currently zoned ”primarily residential”.

Historic Reference
The Old Rectory is listed on the Record of Protected Structures by Donegal County Council. Ref No: 40909704.

Services
Mains water, mains electricity, fibre broadband.

Local Information
County Donegal is located on the north-westerly tip of Ireland and is considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful and unspoilt counties, renowned for its rich history, heritage, and breathtaking landscape. Donegal is typified by its dramatic, towering sea cliffs, rolling green hills, and pristine sandy beaches.

Located on the south-west coast of the county, Killybegs is a vibrant coastal town and is Ireland’s largest fishing port. Just 4 km from the town lies Fintra Beach, a Blue Flag sandy beach set in a picturesque bay, popular with swimmers, walkers, and families.

A wide range of sporting and leisure activities are available in the surrounding area, including sea angling, diving, kayaking, and coastal hiking. For the keen golfer, the nearby Narin & Portnoo Links (27 km) offers a scenic and challenging course, while Donegal Golf Club (42 km), one of the longest courses in Europe at 7,452 yards from the championship tees, provides a world-class golfing experience.

Killybegs offers a range of local amenities and services, with further options available in Donegal Town (26 km) and Letterkenny (69 km), including shops, banks, restaurants, and secondary schools.

Local places of interest include Slieve League Cliffs, among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, as well as the scenic Wild Atlantic Way driving route, which passes through the area. There are also numerous nearby walking trails and viewpoints showcasing the stunning natural beauty of southwest Donegal.

For travel and connectivity, the town is well-served by the N56 road, linking to Donegal Town and beyond. Donegal Airport (58 km) offers regional connections within Ireland and to Scotland, while City of Derry Airport (77 km) provides regular flights to the UK and beyond.

BER Details
Exempt