Oriel House, Ballincollig, County Cork, Ireland, a hotel
Oriel House is a hotel in Cork that occupies a building from the late 1700s and opened as accommodation in 1983. The property preserves its distinctive bay window and combines historic features with modern hotel amenities across its rooms and common areas.
The building was constructed shortly after 1794 by banker Charles Henry Leslie and later took its name from the bay window that Thomas Tobin added in the 1830s to support his wife's artistic work. It changed hands several times over generations before being converted into a hotel in 1983.
The house takes its name from a large bay window that Thomas Tobin built for his wife Catherine so she could paint from inside. This feature still shapes how the building looks today and reflects the artistic interests of the family who once lived here.
The hotel sits close enough to the city center to reach shops, cafes, and historic sites on foot, yet quiet enough for a relaxing break. Most rooms offer basic amenities like clean bedding and bathrooms, and the 24-hour reception can help with questions or recommendations.
The original bay window is now a luxury bridal suite that couples can use to celebrate special moments in a distinctive setting. Some rooms bear the names of former owners such as the Ellis Collection and The Tobin Collection, preserving the personal history of the house.
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