Lady Harriet Kavanagh, Borris House, County Carlow

Borris House, the ancestral home of the McMorrough Kavanaghs, Kings of Leinster, is one of the few Irish estates that can trace its history back to the Royal families of ancient Ireland and the tour covers all aspects of the history of the family and the house, from the original 15th century castle, through its many subsequent changes and alterations, right up to the present day. There are so many things to admire on the tour from the beauty of the Stapleton ceilings to the unique Chapel of St. Moling, as well as a room by room description of the exceptional architecture, antique furniture, porcelain and paintings on display. On view for the first time ever are the recently restored Egyptian watercolours of Lady Harriet Kavanagh and the Borris Lace. In the recently restored Granary visitors can watch a film on the history of the McMorrough Kavanaghs and Borris House, walk around the Lace Garden, visit the restored Victorian laundry and soak in the stunning views of Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs Mountains and Mount Brandon. The Store at Borris House sells local crafts, jewellery, ceramics, leather goods and textiles and is located at the front gate entrance. Check the website for precise opening times. Borris House is the venue for the Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas, September 18th - 20th.