History of Castle Durrow
Built in the early 18th century, Castle Durrow has a rich and varied history. From its beginnings as a private family residence to its years as a convent school, the house has been home to many generations. Lovingly restored by the Stokes family in the 1990s, Castle Durrow is once again a welcoming country house, now enjoyed by guests from near and far.
A Piece of Irish History in Stone
Built between 1712 and 1715, Castle Durrow is a fine example of early Georgian architecture and one of the few country houses of its period for which original building records survive.
Originally built as the residence of the Flower family, later Viscounts Ashbrook, the house reflects the elegance and proportions of Georgian design. More than three centuries later, much of its original character remains, from its impressive stone façade to its beautifully proportioned rooms and architectural details.
The Flower Family, 1712 to 1922
Construction of Castle Durrow began in 1712 under Colonel William Flower, with the family taking up residence in 1716. Over the following 214 years, the Flower family continued to develop the house and its surrounding estate.
The family, who later held the title of Viscount Ashbrook, played an important role in the local community and were among the largest employers in Durrow.
In 1922, financial difficulties led to the banks foreclosing on the estate, and the Flower family relocated to Britain. Castle Durrow was subsequently purchased by Mr Maher of Freshford, County Kilkenny, who was particularly interested in the estate's valuable timber reserves. Many of its mature oak trees were felled and exported to Britain, marking a significant change in the landscape surrounding the house.
The Land Commission and St Fintan's
Following the departure of the Flower family, the estate underwent considerable change. The Land Commission divided much of the agricultural land, while the Forestry Department acquired large areas of woodland for further planting.
During this period, Castle Durrow itself remained largely unoccupied. In 1929, with the approval of the Bishop, the parish of Durrow purchased the house and grounds for £1,800.
The house was subsequently transformed into St Fintan's College and Convent. Initially operated by the Presentation Sisters as a closed convent, it later became a primary and secondary school, welcoming generations of local children until its closure in 1987.
The Stokes Restoration
In the 1990s, Peter and Shelly Stokes purchased Castle Durrow and began the enormous task of restoring the house to its former glory.
What was initially expected to be a relatively straightforward renovation became a three-year restoration project. The roof was completely replaced, new plumbing and electrical systems were installed, and much of the original Georgian detailing was carefully restored.
During the roof works, original black oak beams were uncovered. Rather than conceal them, Peter and Shelly incorporated them into the design of the Oriental bedrooms, where they remain a distinctive feature today.
Throughout the house, original fireplaces, decorative plaster ceilings and stained-glass windows were restored, while new timber sash windows were made to replace those that had deteriorated. Irish oak floors and underfloor heating were introduced, bringing modern comfort to the historic building.
Furniture and antiques were collected from Irish and European auction houses, alongside pieces passed down through the family, giving each room its own individual character.
Today, Castle Durrow remains in the Stokes family, with Tessa and her husband Robin continuing the tradition of family ownership and hospitality established by Peter and Shelly.
Guests are welcomed as old family friends.
Over Three Centuries of Castle Durrow
The castle's story moves from a Georgian family seat through decades as a school, before being lovingly restored to the house you see today.