KILCORNAN HOUSE

If you are looking for a place to visit in Galway that combines history, architecture and nature, you might want to check out Kilcornan House. This impressive mansion, located in the village of Clarinbridge, has a long and fascinating story that dates back to the 16th century.

Kilcornan House was originally a castle built by Ulick de Burgo, a Norman lord who ruled over much of Connacht. The castle was later inherited by the Redington family, who transformed it into a fine mansion in the 1830s. The architect George Papworth designed the new house, incorporating the old tower in its fabric and adding Gothic features such as pinnacles, turrets and chimneys.

The Redingtons were benevolent landlords who contributed greatly to the development of Clarinbridge and the surrounding area. They established schools, churches and a cenotaph to honour Thomas N. Redington, a prominent politician and landowner who died in 1862. The cenotaph still stands on the village green, opposite Kilcornan House.

In 1950, Kilcornan House was purchased by the Brothers of Charity Services, a Catholic organisation that provides care for people with intellectual disabilities. The house now serves as a training centre for people with learning disabilities, offering them various courses and activities. The house is not open to the public, but visitors can admire its exterior and enjoy its scenic surroundings.

Kilcornan House is a remarkable example of how a historic building can adapt to changing times and needs, while preserving its original character and charm. It is a testament to the rich heritage of Galway and a hidden gem worth discovering.