Clonalis: Where Heritage Meets Hospitality
For our family, welcoming guests to Clonalis is more than tradition. It is a joy and a responsibility we carry with pride. Whether you join us for a tour of the great House or spend time in one of our cottages, we invite you to experience something truly special, rooted in deep history and beauty. This estate holds the soul of centuries past, and it is our honour to share its story with all who come through our doors.’
Carol-Anne O’Conor Nash
Generations of Welcome
The O’Conor family have lived along the banks of the River Suck for over 1,500 years, and today the Clonalis Estate remains in the hands of the 27th generation, direct descendants of Ireland’s last High King. A living family home where ancestral portraits grace the walls and rooms are filled with treasured artefacts, Richard and his wife Carol-Anne have now taken up the mantle of custodianship from Richard’s parents, Pyers and Marguerite, who still reside on the estate. Together, they continue the relaxed and welcoming approach that guests have come to love.
Heritage Wrapped in Hospitality
Whether you’re staying in one of our cottages or visiting for a tour of the main house, there’s something unmistakably special in the Clonalis air. Though the estate is rich in grandeur and history, what truly stays with you is the warmth, familiarity, and hospitality that greet you at every turn. All who come to the estate are welcomed like old friends, and from the moment you enter the front gates, the family’s passion for preserving and sharing their history is warmly and unmistakably felt.
“From God Every Help”
Our family motto has connected to different objectives over the centuries - be it to serving Ireland and it’s people, charity, justice or education.
The family crest is made up of a sword, arm and crown. The crown stands for royalty, the sword and arm for strength, valour and might in battle. The flag of Connacht also bears the arm and sword of the royal O’Conor clan. They have both served us well and continue to do so as our story unfolds.
Protecting the Future while Honouring the Past
Behind the stately rooms and historic artefacts, Clonalis is a place of family and continuity. Three generations of the O’Conor family call it home, caring for both the house and its surrounding landscape with a deep respect for history and a focus on sustainability.
Sculpted over centuries by ancient woodland, gardens and meadows the landscape at Clonalis is both tamed and gently wild. We are committed to building a balanced approach of preserving a historic home through low impact enterprises while conserving the natural environment of our Estate.
