Why this matters
Built around 1600 as a three-stage tower house and expanded into a two-storey country house by c. 1830, Glenduff Castle is remembered for its architectural evolution and as a rare surviving example of a tower house integrated into a later country residence. Its historical significance lies in reflecting the transition from defensive to residential architecture in the region.
What is recorded here
Glenduff Castle was described by the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH) as follows; 'Detached multiple-bay two-storey country house, built c. 1830, with three-stage tower house, built c. 1600, to north and three-stage replica tower to south. Projecting entrance bay to front (east) and returns to rear (west) attached to occupied outbuildings. Burnt in 1922 and now in a state of ruin with return occupied. This is a remarkable country house with various sections spanning many periods of Irish history and exhibits a variety of architectural styles. The earliest remaining component of the site is the tower house. This accommodation was later expanded and remodelled for the Ievers family by C. F. Anderson, who added battlemented towers at either end and a double storeyed turreted porch. Burnt in 1922, Glenduff Castle has witnessed a long and varied history with only the outbuildings remaining somewhat intact. This interesting house, which is pleasantly situated within its own wooded landscape, together with its associated outbuildings and lodge, forms an attractive architectural element in the landscape' (https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/21905301/glenduff-castle-glenduff-county-limerick; NIAH Reg. No. 21905301).
Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien
Date of upload: 7 October 2021
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