House Tours
Visitors to this intriguing house will be surprised to be welcomed via a front door which is unusually placed at the end of the West wing in a hexagonal hall, rather than in the middle of the façade. This was to suppress the draughts in what was an exceptionally exposed position before the trees grew up. One of Caroline’s anecdotes tells of an occasion where seven strong men were required to shut the front door in such a storm! Equally surprising perhaps is the Canadian moose head that greets visitors as they enter.
Uniquely, the drawing room stretches the entire length of the façade -some 45 ft – with four large Georgian windows allowing in all the morning light. Here Caroline designed a music room which still holds musical gatherings today, with many commenting on the extraordinary acoustics. Throughout the house are examples of fine Irish furniture, beautifully ornate built-in display cabinets, and of course works of art by the many generations of Hamilton artists and many more such as the great Sir William Orpen. The garden and grounds are well recorded in their prime thanks to the colourful watercolours painted by Letitia in the pre-First world war period.
Group Bookings
Historical societies and other such groups should make contact by email info@hamwood.ie to arrange a visit. Min 12 people in group.
