Cloverhill combines village history with a distinctive country house ensemble. At the heart of Cloverhill Demesne stands Cloverhill House, now a ruin. The country house was designed for the Sanderson family by Francis Johnston between around 1799 and 1805. Johnston (1760–1829) was a leading Irish architect of the neoclassical style.
Country House and Demesne
The Cloverhill Demesne ensemble includes parkland, a tree-lined driveway, several outbuildings and a walled garden. It may also include the remains of a greenhouse, as well as three gate lodges. These details give the country house a wider architectural setting: the picture of the place includes not only the ruins, but also the design of the estate and its outbuildings.
Church and Buildings in the Village
Saint John's Church (Annagh) in Cloverhill is a neo-Gothic Church of Ireland church dating from 1856. It is a village landmark and retains many original interior features. The former Cloverhill Post Office is a Victorian schoolmaster's house dating from around 1860. It is part of a group of buildings connected with the demesne that is significant to the architectural and social heritage of County Cavan.
The gate lodges also display distinct architectural features. One gate lodge at Cloverhill Demesne retains carved stone details, ornate bargeboards and sash windows. The gate lodge at Corrarod near Cloverhill was built in the Tudor Gothic style in 1837.
Dining and Excursions Nearby
For a culinary experience, the Olde Post Inn in Cloverhill offers a regularly changing menu at Michelin-star level in its restaurant. As the menu may change, check the current selection before your visit.
Castle Saunderson estate is near Cloverhill. It is home to a small neo-Gothic church and a private cemetery with carved gravestones commemorating several generations of the Saunderson family. As the cemetery is private, please arrange your visit in advance. Crom Estate in County Fermanagh is also near the destination. The estate has a visitor centre and offers fishing, boat hire and camping. Check the visitor centre's current opening status and the availability of activities before travelling.
More Places to Explore in County Cavan
In County Cavan, the 21.7 km Cavan Way links the villages of Dowra and Blacklion. The long-distance trail passes along countryside and riverbank paths, quiet roads, karst terrain and open bogland. Cavan Burren Park in County Cavan is an important site in the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark. Killykeen Forest Park in County Cavan lies around the Lough Oughter lake system; it has accessible walking trails and a family cycling route.
For a different focus, visit the St Kilian's Heritage Centre in Mullagh, County Cavan, which tells visitors about the life and influence of St Kilian. The exhibition includes a 15-minute audiovisual presentation, as well as maps, photographs, statuettes, facsimiles of manuscripts and art reproductions.
Discover more destinations: Ballyhugh, Loch Gowna, Lavagh, Mullagh, Blacklion, Kingscourt, Virginia, Bailieborough.
For the overview of the wider area: County Cavan.
