Kiltariff Hall Country House

Kiltariff Hall is a Victorian country house just outside the small market town of Rathfriland. Built in the late 1800s by William Fegan, the great-grandfather of the family, it sits at the end of a short drive and has always been a family home rather than a grand showhouse. The Fegan family’s roots in Rathfriland go back much further than the house itself. In the 1750s, the family was already part of town life, running a candle and soap business in the town square.

As times changed, they moved into farming and milling, with Kiltariff becoming the center of that work and family life. Over the years, some family members left Ireland and settled abroad, including in New Zealand and the United States. Today, the hall is surrounded by mature trees and looks out towards the Mourne Mountains. Catherine, who grew up here when it was still a working farm, now looks after the house and grounds. Inside, old photographs and personal touches quietly tell the story of the people who have lived here over the generations.

Kiltariff Hall has the easy elegance of a Victorian house that has been lived in and looked after, rather than overly restored. Inside, the rooms feel open and well-proportioned, with high ceilings and decorative cornicing that quietly reflect the period it was built in. The dining room naturally draws you in, with a long antique table at its center and a Broadwood grand piano that adds both presence and character. Original fireplaces, along with pitch pine doors and woodwork, have been kept in place and give the house much of its warmth and personality.

Upstairs, the bedrooms are comfortable and relaxed, finished with well-designed en suite bathrooms that suit modern stays without feeling out of place. On one side of the house, the windows open out to wide views of the Mourne Mountains, and the light shifts constantly as the day moves on. Outside, a small vegetable garden and a simple patio offer quiet places to sit, read, or just relax. They feel like natural extensions of the living spaces inside.

Kiltariff Hall does not have its own restaurant, but breakfast is served daily and cooked to order. Guests can enjoy a mix of buffet items, including fresh seasonal fruit, some picked from its own garden, granola, cereals, and homemade jams. Hot dishes are also served, such as Ulster fry, pancakes, porridge, and smoked salmon with scrambled eggs. Most ingredients are locally sourced, including eggs, bacon, sausages, and bread. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are also available, and special dietary needs can be accommodated on request.

For lunch, dinner, or just a light bite, there are plenty of good spots nearby. In Rathfriland, Loft 56 is a stylish wine bar and bistro only a 10-minute walk away, and Vera & Ernies is perfect for coffee or a quick treat. Hilltown has The Downshire Arms, a friendly pub with classic comfort food, while in Newry, Art Bar Funkel serves relaxed bistro-style meals and drinks. Over in Rostrevor, you’ll find The Rostrevor Inn for traditional pub fare and The Church, a casual café and bistro.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Kiltariff Hall sits in the heart of the Mourne area, well located to explore Northern Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes and hidden corners. Just beyond the house, the Mourne Mountains rise dramatically, offering endless opportunities for walks, hikes, and scenic photography. They can provide maps for all levels of walkers and point you toward the best beauty spots and viewpoints, whether you’re after a gentle riverside stroll or a more challenging mountain trek.

For a taste of local wildlife, their resident expert, Shelagh, can arrange personalised Red Kite tours, taking you to the spots where these majestic birds soar overhead. Along the way, she’ll share her knowledge of the area’s other wildlife, and you might even be tempted by her famous homemade lemon drizzle cake.

Nature lovers will also enjoy Tollymore Forest Park, a magical woodland with trails for all abilities, riverside paths, and mountain biking routes. It’s no surprise this enchanting forest has featured in many Game of Thrones scenes. Speaking of which, the world’s only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour has recently opened in Banbridge, just a short drive away. Here you can step into iconic sets from Winterfell to King’s Landing, see the costumes up close, and discover the artistry behind the globally celebrated series.

A little further afield, Castlewellan Forest Park combines everything you could want for a day out, from a picturesque lake, panoramic mountain views, scenic walking trails, a hedge maze, and even a long stretch of mountain bike tracks. For a touch of history and royal elegance, a visit to Hillsborough Castle is a must. Wander through beautifully kept gardens, enjoy live performances that bring the past to life, and take a tour of the Georgian house still used as a Royal residence.

Kiltariff Hall can host private celebrations, including birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant milestone events. They also offer a personalized touch with décor, table arrangements, and other small details that help make each occasion feel unique. They can also arrange outdoor setups, taking advantage of the gardens and patio for a scenic setting. For corporate events, it’s best to get in touch directly to discuss what can be accommodated, as options vary depending on the size and nature of the event.