Alderford House, County Roscommon
This once impressive stately home is situated near the village of Ballyfarnon at the foothills of the Arigna mountains. Here also lives the famous Arigna Scenic Route which borders the three counties of Roscommon, Sligo and Leitrim. The house was built approximately 400 years ago and was lived in by the MacDermot Roe family. It is famous for its’ connection with Turlough O` Carolan, the legendary harpist and composer, who lived there as a boy after his father settled in Ballyfarnon from Co Meath. He attracted the attention of Madam MacDermot Roe with his talent and she became his patroness and lifelong friend.
The main entrance to Alderford House was located beside the present day school and the lions set on the piers of the gates were emblems of the MacDermot Roe family. Unfortunately today Alderford House is in a sorry state of repair.
For info on the nearby village of Ballyfarnon click here