The resident peacocks

It's not often you get to share your lodging for the night with a couple of peacocks, but Ashley Park House, a slightly run-down 18th century house in Tipperary. The grounds are large and very quiet, and the gardens are peaceful.

The estate was known as Rathone (earthen fort) until the 18th century, adn there are still several Stone Age ring forts on the property. The original house was built here in 1700, although there have been houses here near the ruined tower house since the early 1600s. The original house was completely rebuilt in the mid 1700s (the current house may include earlier pieces, but no plans exist). It passed through many member of the family until it was aols at auction in 1983. Renovation work in the house has restored most of the original features and the gardens are currently being renovated as well.

This was a comfortable B&B, with large rooms and -- as advertised -- comfortable beds. Being woken up by the screeching peacocks was a treat, too.

Ashley House, from the front gardents