What is recorded here

Ballyfin Castle rose in County Laois during the reign of Elizabeth I, built by the Crosbies and marked on a 1563 map before Piriam Pole received it in 1666. His son William demolished the medieval structure to build a new house, erasing the old walls but continuing the family's hold on the land. The present demesne house appeared between 1821 and 1826, layering another century of residence over the same ground. No surface remains of the original castle are visible now, yet the site still carries the weight of repeated rebuilding and forgotten hands.

Ballyfin Castle was built by the Crosbies during the reign of Elizabeth I (1558-1603). Granted to Piriam Pole in 1666, it was later demolished by his son William Pole who built a house on the site (Comerford 1883-86, 136-137). The present house was built between 1821 and 1826 (Bence-Jones 1978, 21). Building indicated on 1563 map of Leix and Offaly. On the same map the castle or house of Ballyfin is indicated (O'Flanagan 1933 vol. 2, 35). No surface remains visible. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007

Ballyfin Castle was originally built by the Crosbies during Elizabeth I's reign and later held by the Pole family after 1666. It is remembered for its historical associations with prominent local families and the transition from medieval fortress to a more domestic dwelling.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.