The Wood House, Shore Road, Killowen, Rostrevor, Co. Down

Background, Location & Amenities The Wood House, Rostrevor, a property which has been under the same family ownership for over 50 years is witnessing a change. In a once in a lifetime opportunity, this most spectacular and serene example of prime Irish Coastal property is now coming onto the market. Set in a location reminiscent of Lakes Como and Garda in Northern Italy, the property is privately located on the northern shores of the beautiful Carlingford Lough with commanding views out across the waters of the Lough toward the Cooley Mountains of County Louth. This outstanding area of South Down sits amidst an unspoiled landscape of woodland where, as the famous song calls out, 'the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea.' It boasts a rich literary heritage with a close association with C.S. Lewis who famously declared 'that part of Rostrevor which overlooks Carlingford Lough is my idea of Narnia'. Located just outside the picturesque village of Rostrevor, which is within walking distance at some 1.2 miles away, the property asserts it's local prominence by being the first set of entrance gates visible as one departs from Rostrevor towards Kilkeel. Along the way lies the famous Kilbroney River and the equally famous green hilly expanses of Kilbroney Park, which is said to have inspired aforementioned author, C.S. Lewis and which hosts an annual Narnia Festival in his honour. The Park is also a haven for Mountain Biking. Travelling east from the Wood House, continuing on toward Kilkeel is Carlingford Lough Yacht Club, again in close proximity and walking distance lying just over a mile away in Killowen Village. Further east at Greencastle is the Carlingford Lough Ferry offers trips across the scenic Lough from the Kingdom of Mourne over to Greenore on the Cooley Peninsula of County Louth. Going west along Shore Road is the port town of Warrenpoint, set at the mouth of the Newry River which connects the Lough with the town Newry itself and the major cities of Belfast and Dublin, some 60 and 90 minutes respectively, beyond. Brief History of the Wood House The Wood House is a picturesque two-story dwelling with Tudor Gothic detailing, set in a spectacular coastal location on a commanding site overlooking Carlingford Lough. A building has been on the site since 1808 and was once a posting house. Said to have been erected by Trevor Corry agent to the Ross Estate and cousin of Isaac Corry, Chancellor of the Exchequer. Bradshaw's directory states that 'Hon. And Very Rev. Dean of Down' (Edmund Knox) was occupant in 1819. Shown as the Wood House on the 1834 OS map. The Ordnance Survey Memoirs of 1836 state that the property was build by Trevor Corry and that, 'It is the property of Mrs Fennell, Co Westmeath, and now let as a bathing lodge'. An 1838 valuation notes the tenant (for three years) as William Durley Hall, and measurements given as 55ft x 33ft x 15ft. Substantial enlargement is evident by the 1859 map, and the dimensions in the 1863 valuation are 15ft x 78ft x two storeys. Known in the late 19th century as Ramadges (Mr Smith Ramadge was occupant in 1863). Former noteworthy owners include Archbishop Gregg Primate of Armagh, Very Rev. R.S. O'Loughlin, Dean of Dromore, and Sir Ivan Neill, Stormont Speaker during the 1960s. The Wood House Gardens are currently designated 'NC 04: Historic Parks Gardens and Demesnes of special historic interest' by NI Environmental Agency. Property Description The Wood House is a spectacular, 19th Century, Gothic revival style property. This property is steeped in history, full of character, and remains one of the most sought-after sites in the locality. Sitting on approx. 1.8 acres of grounds, from the ancient forest land surrounding the Wood House, to the well-manicured lawns and gardens including an antique water feature, gravel driveway and beautifully constructed walls, right down to the Carlingford Lough shoreline. Built in 1815 and restored between 1973-1975, The Wood House spans approx. 5,000 sq feet and incorporates both Tudor and Gothic features and characteristics which are evident as you walk through this magnificent home. Cleverly designed to take in the breathtaking views, four rooms on the ground floor and four on the first floor enjoy the South-facing aspect, many with spectacular bay windows and traditional French doors that, combined with high ceilings throughout, flood these rooms with natural light. Parquet wood flooring; sliding sash windows; gothic style arch ways and a unique bifurcated stairway are just some of the classic features seen throughout the Wood House that reflect the era in which this period property was constructed. Rarely does one come across such qualities in a property located on a prime shorefront site enjoying uninterrupted views of Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains. The Wood House comprises five double bedrooms; four spacious reception rooms internally. Externally, there are an array of outbuildings including a garage; boiler house; utility room and garden shed. A long, gravel driveway wraps around the front of the house providing plenty of parking; followed by a generous sized lawn that features a striking period-style water fountain. A variety of mature trees allow the Wood House complete privacy from the main road. Offers Whilst the agents invite offers from interested parties for this property initially on a private basis, we reserve the right on behalf of the Vendors to conclude the bidding (if necessary) by holding a meeting of all bidders on a specified date and time in our office. In the event that a meeting is to be arranged, only those parties with a valid offer on the property can be assured of being notified of the specific time and date. Viewing by appointment only. Closing Date for Offers: 28th September 2023 Vendor's Solicitor: Eoin McConville Fisher & Fisher Solicitors John Mitchel Place Newry (0044) 28 3026 1811 Rates £6.932.25* Subject to change Location: The Wood House sits in prime location being well connected to both Belfast and Dublin airports, each just over an hour drive from the property. It is only a few minutes' drive to Rostrevor village and walking trails such as the Kilbroney Park and the Fairy Glen River Walk. A 10 minute drive takes you to the popular Greencastle - Greenore Ferry service towards Carlingford across one of Ireland's most scenic Loughs. For more information please contact: Best Property Services 34 Church Street, Warrenpoint, Co. Down BT34 3HN Tel: (0044) 28 4175 4522