Located at Portlaw, Co Waterford, the circa 250-acre Rocketts Castle estate is one of the most stunning packages to come to the market this year.

The land is split between a mixture of tillage, pasture and woodland with a range of sporting facilities also in place. When trying to describe such a property, it can be difficult to know where to begin given the sheer size and impressive array of facilities in place on the estate.

Steeped in history

The original Rocketts Castle dates back as far as 1212, having been constructed by a Norman family. It was subsequently taken over by the earl of Ormond under the rule of King Charles I. A string of well-documented owners followed until a Russian by the name of Valery Zakharenkov purchased the property.

Of all the owners, Zakharenkov’s influence was some of the most substantial during the eight years of his tenure. Over this time, he undertook an extensive renovation project of both the house and the other associated buildings of the estate, finishing the property to an impeccable standard. The current owners purchased the property in 2005 and have continually improved since.

At the core of the property is a fully modernised country house dating back to 1850. A cast-iron electric gate entrance leads up a beautiful lime tree-lined avenue, offering complete privacy from the outside world.

The property maintains the feeling of a comfortable family home while doubling as the perfect venue to host a lavish party due to the sheer size and style of the interior of the house.

The house itself measures to 11,500 sq ft, spread over two floors. This includes six bedrooms, five of which are en suite, a library, several conservatories, a bar, billiards room, kitchen, dining room, games room and drawing room among others.

Farmland

The 250 acres is contained within one block, with over half, circa 134 acres, currently in tillage. A further circa 35 acres is in permanent pasture having been predominantly used for equine purposes. Circa 59 acres is in woodland with equine trails throughout, with the remaining grounds being taken up by roads, yards, buildings and ponds.

The tillage ground, for the most part, has been leased out to a number of farmers on an annual basis. The land is of such a high quality that it would be suitable for any enterprise. There are three entrances to the property from the nearby public road, with a network of internal roadways also in place.

Array of facilities

The focal point of the estate is a 13th century tower which occupies a commanding position on the edge of the River Suir, which runs along the side of the farm. The river provides the opportunity for boating, fishing and is a haven for wildlife. Along with the main house, there is a traditional fishing lodge and a fully renovated former gardener’s cottage.

The fishing lodge was originally a range of traditional outbuildings, however it has been completely renovated with the addition of a spa room including showers, a sauna, steam room and spa. The lodge has a total of five bedrooms which are all either en suite or have a shower room.

Lying to the south of the residence is a walled garden. It is accessed from the residence via a tree-lined avenue. The walls of the garden were fully restored by the previous owner. The old gardener’s cottage forms part of this walled garden. It is currently used as a tack room for the equestrian interests that exists on the farm.

The walled garden also includes a range of other stores and out buildings, two tennis courts and a helicopter landing pad.

The property is well located only 18km from the M9 Dublin to Waterford motorway. The sale, by way of a private treaty, is being handled by Savills Country, Dublin. The property is guided at €6m and stands as one of the finest and largest blocks of land to come to the open market this year. CL