News | December 5th, 2024
Heritage and Comfort Combined: A Tour and Stay at Blessingbourne
Blessingbourne Estate is the perfect spot for a peaceful, history-filled getaway. Located in the beautiful Clogher Valley in County Tyrone, this lovely estate combines local history, art, and craftsmanship with the charm of a Victorian manor and stunning gardens.
The estate is owned by Nicholas and Colleen Lowry, who guide you through each unique part of the tour, making it feel like a warm, family welcome.
For those looking for a relaxing and interesting holiday in Northern Ireland, Blessingbourne Estate offers a peaceful retreat into the country’s past.
The Tour of Blessingbourne Estate
Blessinbourne Heritage tours are ideal for senior groups, history lovers or multi-generational holidayers. Let’s dive into what to expect on your visit:
Exploring the Manor House and Victorian Gardens
The tour begins in the grand rooms of the 1874-built Manor House. With Colleen as your guide, you’ll walk through the ground-floor rooms and learn about the house’s rich Victorian history.
The manor was built by famous architect Pepy’s Cockerall and has remained a beloved family home ever since. Visitors will enjoy the nursery, with its charming reminders of a Victorian childhood, and the beautiful family portraits that decorate the walls. Each room has a story that Colleen shares, making the experience truly personal.
Once outside, you can stroll through the peaceful Victorian gardens, which overlook the calm waters of Lough Fadda. The gardens provide a lovely place to relax, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the views. This scenic setting is a highlight of the tour, offering a moment of tranquillity and beauty.
A Private Art Collection of Ulster’s Finest Artists
Blessingbourne Estate is home to an impressive collection of artwork, put together by Peter Montgomery, the first chairman of the Arts Council in Northern Ireland.
On display are wonderful pieces by famous Ulster artists, like Brian Ballard, Gerard Dillon, Derek Hill, Colin Middleton, TP Flanagan, JB Vallely, Basil Blackshaw and Tom Carr, from the 1960s and 70s.
Colleen shares stories about each artist and the history behind each piece, making this art tour truly enjoyable. It’s a rare chance to see these beautiful works up close, all within the walls of a grand estate.
The Art of Metal Craft
One unique part of Blessingbourne’s history is the Fivemiletown Metal School, which was started by Mary Montgomery in 1892.
Mary was passionate about metalwork and trained villagers to create beautiful copper, brass, and pewter pieces. Her designs, which often featured animals and nature, were known to have been purchased by Queen Victoria, The Princess of Wales and The Duke of York.
Today, visitors can see examples of this beautiful craftwork, while Colleen explains the tradition and hard work behind each piece.
Explore the Costume & Carriage Museum
The Costume & Carriage Museum at Blessingbourne is a treasure trove of historic carriages, costumes, and even a real UN scout helicopter. Here, there are many fascinating items for visitors to enjoy, including horse-drawn carriages, military outfits, and an authentic Romany caravan. Each item has its own story, giving a glimpse into life in earlier times.
Adding to the charm, Colleen and Nicholas share personal stories from their life in the manor, which include tales of ghostly sightings and having the last working butler in County Tyrone. Their stories give a warm and humorous touch to the tour, making it feel like a visit with friends.
Relax and Stay at Blessingbourne Estate
After the tour, guests can relax in one of Blessingbourne’s beautiful self-catering accommodations.
The 5-star Gate Lodge is a luxurious yet cosy option, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of elegance. You can also choose from the lovely courtyard apartments which are comfortable and charming, while the Oak Tree Cabin offers a more rustic, nature-inspired stay. Each place is designed for comfort, making it easy to unwind after a day exploring the estate.
Plus, for pet lovers, all of our accommodations are pet-friendly, and we provide excellent guidance on the best dog walking trails in Fermanagh and Tyrone and all the best pet-friendly ideas nearby.
Blessingbourne Estate invites visitors to relax, explore, and step back in time. Whether you’re walking through lovely gardens, admiring local artwork, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, Blessingbourne is a perfect escape into the beauty and history of Ireland.
Speak to Colleen today about booking a tour and stay holiday.