We adventure from the north-east coast to the lakelands of Westmeath to bring you three brilliant boathouse destinations.
Old Court Hideaway, Co Down
Originally built in 1852 on Katherine Quay on the shores of tranquil Strangford Lough, this is an idyllic spot to unwind as the water laps up to the private deck.
WHAT TO EXPECT A picture perfect escape, it’s little wonder the grounds surrounding this boathouse are a popular wedding destination. The boathouse’s wooden interior cladding and brass light fixtures honour its nautical heritage without kitsch or cliché, a truly tasteful nod to its unique setting. Watch out for some playful seals as you wade into the water for a cooling swim. A quick scan and you’ll see why this area is a hub for birdwatchers and animal lovers thanks to its rich biodiversity, so include a long bracing walk into your itinerary before getting into your best pyjamas extra early for a relaxing wind-down.
SPEND THE DAY After your morning dip, just feet from your doorstep you can beeline for Belfast in under an hour and sample stunning linens at Kindred of Ireland (booking ahead advised) or peruse the latest drops at the ever-stylish homewares boutique, Maven.
DON’T MISS Although Belfast has a host of stunning restaurants, we advise you keep going along the coast just a few more minutes to Frae in the coastal town of Holywood for steak tartare with Caesar salad and a glass of the house Picpoul. Closer to home, you’ll find a charming eatery, The Cuan, a restored inn just a ten-minute walk away serving up seaside classics such as scampi, mussels and fish and chips.
Ashford Castle Boathouse, Co Mayo
Over a century ago, the Guinness family, then owners of the estate, undertook the building of a boathouse. Today, this lovingly restored bolthole is perched on the edge of Lough Corrib, a few minutes’ stroll from Ashford Castle.
WHAT TO EXPECT When else will you have a private butler at your disposal, there to cater for your every whim and most importantly, to deliver your private meal to your door? Our favourite spot at which to dine is the al fresco table, but inside is just as romantic. Before you get too comfortable, bear in mind that the main house has lots to offer for evening entertainment. You may be tempted by a screening at the sumptuous cinema, fully clad in red velvet, or a top-notch
tipple in the billiards room.
SPEND THE DAY Right on the border of Galway and Mayo, this is the perfect springboard to explore Connemara, Killary Fjord, or charming stop-offs such as Louisburgh and Westport. In saying all that, luxury at this level is few and far between so no one would blame you for staying put and soaking in all the estate has to offer. If braving Lough Corrib seems too daunting, we hear you, but we’re sure you’ll still want to don your togs at the spa, located in the light-filled former conservatory, with an indoor pool adored with golden mosaics and seashell chandeliers.
DON’T MISS Follow Frank Costello, third generation ghillie and marine guide, on an exploration of Lough Corrib with a picnic pitstop at a secluded island on the lake. The clicker boat, built by Frank, is the perfect place to hear the history and folklore of this unspoilt slice of nature.
Walden Lakehouse, Co Westmeath
Nestled on Lough Ree, just a few miles from Glasson, is a woodland hideaway like no other.
WHAT TO EXPECT Built in the 1960s, it has mid-century design finds in every room. Some of our favourite features include the exposed white ribs of the ceiling’s rafters, the woodburning stove and the eye-catching vintage Irish travel poster. Your hosts have thought of everything to make your stay a memorable one. You are encouraged to help yourself to the welcome hamper full of local produce, fresh herbs from the garden, the cocktail trolley with glasses and mixing equipment, the charcoal barbecue, board games and logs and kindling to get you started. If you are lucky, you will spot some swans glide past you as you enjoy your morning cup of a tea in bed, as you gear up to join them for a morning swim.
SPEND THE DAY Why not take advantage of the two-person kayak, available for use by guests? It is suitable for beginners, and can be used by one or two people together. Or wet your whistle instead with a whiskey tasting at Kilbeggan Distillery.
DON’T MISS Once you’ve built up an appetite, it would be a shame to miss the nearby Michelin Bib Gourmand Thyme restaurant. Their five-course value menu is a steal at €45, with highlights such as smoked mackerel pâté-topped crumpets or pink grapefruit meringue shortbread with blood orange sorbet. Available all evening Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday (excluding bank holidays) and until 5.45pm Friday and Saturday
This feature originally appeared in the spring/summer 2025 issue of IMAGE Interiors. Have you thought about becoming a subscriber? Find out more, and sign up here.
