Back to its Former Glory

Noel Lamb has brought the house at Finnebrogue Estate back to it’s former glory and we were fortunate to get a closer look behind the doors of Northern Ireland’s oldest house.

Situated in the heart of Co. Down, Finnebrogue Estate is a wonderland of meandering walkways, sun dappled woodlands and beautifully maintained gardens. At the entrance, a driveway twists and curves past soothing shades of green until, suddenly, the trees part and the house slides into view. It’s an impressive sight. Built in an H-shaped design, this five-bay property is a superb example of 17th century architecture. Once the Maxwell family’s ancestral home, the house weathered the centuries but societal changes eventually took their toll and, like many of Ireland’s stately properties, Finnebrogue fell into disrepair. Then, in 2012, Mr Noel Lamb came to the rescue, breathing life into the house and restoring it to its former glory. Taking time from a busy schedule, Noel told me why, despite the challenges, it’s been a true labour of love.

Read more in the September issue…