The name Ard na Sidhe Country House in Ireland means Fairy Hill, but it is said to be haunted by the Lady in Grey, who is the ghost of one of its former residents.
The origins of Ard na Sidhe Country House are shrouded in history and mystery, and the name of the house itself means: Fairy HillDespite its fairy-tale name, a country house in Killorglin, Co. Kerry, is also said to be haunted by a Lady in Grey.
Originally conceived by Lady Gordon, a distinguished lady of Irish descent, Ard na Sidhe Country House was built in 1913 on 32 acres of natural woodland on the shores of Caragh Loch. This ambitious project aimed to create ‘My Dream House’, a vision that would change the Kerry landscape forever. Lady Gordon’s dedication to authenticity saw her employ local workers and employ Irish materials, with the exception of the Westmorland roof tiles, giving the house a timeless character.
Ghostly Whispers in the Farmhouse of Ard na Sidhe
The wealthy history and ghostly tales of Ard na Sidhe cast an irresistible spell over visitors. In particular, the spirit of Bess Stokes, Lady Gordon’s ancestor, is said to roam the estate’s sacred grounds, hidden paths, and secret glades.
It is said that the ghost of Bess Stokes is still seen as an elderly woman dressed in grey – standing by the gate near the ruined cottage she built.
Not much is known about her life, except that she was quite venerable, but she never gave up partying. The descriptions we have in written form come from someone who described her as someone who “he spoke up” at the party she threw to celebrate her 100th birthday.
Her presence adds to the mystique of this legendary residence. As you walk through its historic corridors, listen carefully – you may hear the gentle whispers of its ghostly inhabitants, forever entwined with the charm of Ard na Sidhe Country House.
Ard na Sidhe Farmhouse in Modern Times
In Dr. Liebherr’s hands the legacy of Ard na Sidhe continued to flourish when he acquired the estate in 1958. Just two years later the estate opened its doors to welcome guests, combining the charm of the past with the comfort of today.
Ard na Sidhe Country House invites guests to enjoy the timeless charm of the hotel and to catch a glimpse of the ghosts of the past, perhaps still eager to party forever.
Bibliography:
History of Ard Na Sidhe Country House, Killorglin, Co. Kerry Full text of “The Wind of Time”
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