Gowran Castle

Gowran Castle is an early 19th-century country house with seven bays across the front, two storeys, and rusticated limestone walls. The entrance features a prominent three-bay pedimented projection that gives the house its distinctive character.

The house was built between 1815 and 1820 for Henry Welbore Agar-Ellis, a titled landowner who wanted to modernize his family seat. It replaced an earlier structure from 1713 that had stood on the same grounds.

Saint Mary's Church on the grounds holds medieval tombs that show how noble families have been connected to this place for centuries. When you look at the carved stones and monuments, you can see how important this family seat was to the local community.

The house has been closed to visitors since 2004, but you can view the exterior from the streets around Gowran village. Walking around the perimeter gives you different views of the front elevation and its architectural details.

The house still has original glazing panels from the early 19th century set in distinctive hornless sash frames. These surviving windows demonstrate the precise craftsmanship of the period and are rarely found in such good condition.

Location: County Kilkenny

GPS coordinates: 52.62929,-7.06376

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:00