Beaulieu
- Klassifizierung
- Herrenhaus
- Land
- Irland
- Region
- County Louth
- Adresse
- Drogheda
- Epoche / Stil
- Artisan-Mannerist, 17th century
Beaulieu is one of Ireland's most important surviving 17th-century houses, built without defensive features. The estate near Drogheda in County Louth overlooks the River Boyne estuary and has existed for over 800 years. Originally the Plunkett family home until 1650, it was granted to Sir Henry Tichbourne by King Charles II in 1660. Research suggests construction occurred in two stages: first for the Plunketts, then remodelled by Sir Henry after his creation as Lord Ferrard around 1700. The house exemplifies the Artisan-Mannerist style, with rendered façades, exposed brick detailing, and three deeply recessed central bays. The entrance features a hipped roof with dormer windows, substantial chimney stacks, and ornate carved console brackets supporting a detailed cornice. The interior includes a double-height central hall with carved trophies and armorial cartouches, considered one of Ireland's finest early rooms. Principal rooms retain early features with richly compartmented ceilings and important family collections accumulated over centuries. A lime avenue approaches the front entrance. The garden overlooks lawns extending to the River Boyne estuary, with a superb walled garden in faded pink brick adjoining the parish church. Guided tours available.
Kieran Campbell / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0