GEORGIAN GEM

There was no address – at least not the typical numbered addresses we’re used to here in the U.S. – just a name and a town: Williamstadt House, Williamstown Harbour. We passed through many villages. Each just as quaint and charming as the next. Picturesque beauty surrounded us, but it wasn’t until we came to the end of one long country road that we felt in the heart of Ireland. We had finally arrived at Williamstadt and our love affair with the Irish countryside had begun.

While I have stayed in old properties before – and yes, each one transports you back in time – Williamstadt was the first to make me feel as if I was home. It had the same old quirks that you’d expect from any 18th-century building. Antiques lined the walls and there was often a moment I’d find myself realizing that I was not really in a Jane Austen novel. The mornings began with the sounds of chickens and dogs scurrying around the courtyard and the days were filled with your typical farmhouse chores. The nights brought a quiet that I had never experienced before. Everything was still. I was in the moment.

Have you ever experienced a place where you were just happy to be? That’s what Williamstadt was like. Usually when you go on vacation you’re ready to take it all in and see everything you can. It didn’t take us long to realize how easy it would be to just want to spend the entire day at the house. Situated on the banks of Lough Derg on a sprawling 50-acre wood, there was much to explore. And of course, the two resident Jack Russells would be sure to escort you. It was a slower pace of life. From homemade breakfasts in the kitchen, midday strolls throughout the property, afternoon tea at the cottage down the road, dinner at the only pub in town, and evenings drinking local whiskey around the fireplace, Williamstadt offers its guests the opportunity to embrace country life and experience Ireland like a local.

The main home was furnished with both local antiques and heirlooms from around the world. It was warm and welcoming. Upon entering the home you are greeted by an old staircase. Off to your left and right you’re given the option of two sitting rooms, both richly decorated and comfortable for lounging and mingling. The kitchen is authentic and perhaps our favorite room. Everything you need is supplied and you’ll enjoy leisurely mornings making breakfast in a piece of history. There are a total of four bedrooms and three bathrooms making it an excellent property for families both big and small. There are also two more cottages available to rent in the courtyard. They used to be the old carriage houses.

While Williamstadt House is impressive on its own, what makes this property all the greater is it’s owners, Carol and Kevin. They will welcome you with open arms! I don’t want to give everything away so, for now, I will leave it up to you to discover the rest of what this Georgian Gem has to offer. For more information about booking your stay at Williamstadt House, click here.

Experience more of Williamstadt House by watching our Fall video.

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