Situated some seven miles from Kilkenny, this handsome mansion, the seat of
the Earl of Desart, is placed high in an extensive demesne, and commands fine
views of the surrounding country. It is built of blue limestone, and follows the
usual mid-Georgian lines of a central block, with pavilions projecting on either
side. The north front, the parapet of which was originally ornamented with a
series of urns, is undoubtedly severe, and suffers from lack of height, but the
south, or garden front, overlooking gently sloping terraces, is very effective. For
a long period the principal entrance was not used, access to the house being
obtained through a porch, now pulled down, which was built on to the east
wing.
