Aghaboe Grange

Classification: Manor
Country: Ireland
Region: County Laois
Address: Aghaboe Grange, Aghaboe, Ballacolla, R32 PX84, Laois
Period / style: Victorian (1864)

Located next to the hugely historic Aghaboe Abbey in Co. Laois, the two-storey over basement Aghaboe Grange was built in 1864 by Hans White. It was subsequently inherited by his brother, General Sir Robert White, Col. of 17th/21st Lancers, who fought in the Charge of the Light Brigade, the Crimean War and the Indian Mutiny. The latter's son Robert sold Aghaboe Grange to the Phelan family in 1927. The current owners purchased Aghaboe Grange in 2008. At this time, the house was in very poor condition with some of the upper ceilings collapsed. Over a number of years, the property underwent careful renovation, reroofing using the original slates, restoring a beautiful stained glass window on the landing, and rebuilding the conservatory that opens off the library. The impressive cornicing in the drawing room, dining room and library is all original, as are the marble fireplaces and floor boards. Outside, there is a small partially-walled orchard with a mix of old trees and new planting. The large garden had been given over to cattle grazing but paths were reinstated from old maps and replanted around them. The highlights of the garden are a long perennial border, a summer house, wildlife pond and a formal pond. Two existing wild flower meadows are also being extended. General Sir Robert White is buried in Aghaboe Abbey together with other family members. Available as a film location.