Borris House

Situated in South County Carlow on the River Barrow, with views of the Blackstairs Mountains, Borris house is one of most important country houses in Ireland. Seat of the McMorrough Kavanagh family, whose ancestors have lived on the site since the fifteenth century, it is one of the very few houses in Ireland that is still occupied by the family for whom it was built and it still contains a great deal of its original furniture, paintings, documentary archives and other artefacts.

Visitors can also take a tour of Borris House during their visit. The tour covers all aspects of the history of the house, from the original 15th century castle, through its many subsequent changes and alterations, right up to the present day. The tour also takes in the rich history of the Kings of Leinster as well as an introduction to the diverse and interesting characters of the McMorrough Kavanagh family who helped shape the house, estate and village of Borris as we see it today. There are so many things to admire on our tour from the beauty of the Stapleton ceilings to the unique Chapel of St Moling, situated beside the house as well as a room by room description of the exceptional architecture, antique furniture, carpets, porcelain, silver and paintings on display. The story behind the Borris Lace will be told and visitors will be able to see a small selection of this very delicate lace for themselves.

For those visitors wishing to enjoy the grounds and gardens of Borris House they will find a rich selection of stunning trees growing in the parkland and Church Paddock, notable champions include a Cedar of Lebanon, fern-leaf Beech, Tulip Tree and Turkish Oak as well as some young but unusual specimen trees, shrubs and flora. Around the house, visitors can walk along the woodland paths, enjoy the Fairy trail along the way, view the ornamental lake and visit the 18th century Ice House. An exciting addition to Borris Demense is the introduction of our new adventure trails & woodland walk. You can choose from our Nature Trail, House Trail and Fairy Trail as well as the 2.75 km looped walk through the 250 acre native woodland surrounding Borris House. Suitable outdoor wear and footwear is advisable. Please note that the woodland walk is rough in parts and very hilly so will only be suitable for sturdy prams and strong arms! The trails are aimed at all the family from the adults to the wee ones and we think there is something for everyone to enjoy.