Cabinteely House: What is it?Cabinteely House is an 18th-century country house set in 45 hectares of parkland that is now Cabinteely Park, in south Co Dublin.
It was built in 1769 for Robert Nugent, a man renowned for marrying wealthy widows. It was subsequently owned by the O’Byrne family of Wicklow and, latterly, the TD Joseph McGrath. It came into the possession of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council in 1984. The house has an impressive 18th-century staircase, decorative plasterwork and vaulted gallery. Its refurbished stables have been turned into a popular tearoom with outdoor space in adjoining Japanese gardens.
Why visit?The house is one of the historical properties that Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown's Summer of Heritage programme is giving free access to. You might recognise the building from its appearances on screen, including in Albert Nobbs, the recent Glenn Close film, and the BBC series Ripper Street. The park itself is great for walking and cycling, with woodland and open parkland. The well-equipped playground attracts families with young children.
Why now?The house is open for free tours from 2pm to 5pm on Wednesdays and Sundays until September 2nd. The hour-long tours include a living-history performance in which the ghosts of Lord Nugent and his butler make an appearance.
Tomorrow, from 10am to 6pm, Cabinteely House hosts an antiques fair (admission €5). You are welcome to bring antiques for free valuations with Adams antique dealers and valuers. Outdoor theatrical performances suitable for all ages will also take place in Cabinteely Park on Sunday, July 29th, Sunday, August 12th and Sunday, August 26th, at 12.30pm.
How do I get there?Cabinteely House is about 10km from the middle of Dublin. Follow the N11 from the city centre, then turn off at Cornelscourt. Take the first left towards Cabinteely village and follow the signs for the park.
It’s also on Dublin Bus routes 45, 84 and 86 from the city centre and, in the other direction, routes 45 and 84 from Bray, Co Wicklow.
You can get details of events at Cabinteely House and of the rest of the Summer of Heritage programme on 01-2542387 or at dlrevents.ie.
