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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
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