Russborough House

Work took me to this stately pile today where I had the job of shooting photos for our company report which is due out in 4 weeks time and which is running hopelessly behind schedule. We provide a couple of guys to work here as part of the Tús Programme which is a workplace initiative for the long term unemployed. For a little of the history of the house I can do no better than quote directly from their own web site :

"Russborough is a stunning Palladian mansion overlooking some of the most impressive views in Ireland. Designed in 1741 by Richard Cassels, it took 10 years to build what has been described as "one of the most beautiful houses in Ireland". (Bruce Arnold, The Irish Times, 1997) With the Wicklow mountains and Blessington lakes just a stone's throw away the setting is idyllic.

Sir Alfred and Lady Beit bought Russborough in 1952 to house their impressive art collection. They left this historic mansion, its collections and their fascinating life story to the Irish public in 1978. From this extraordinary act of generosity we welcome you to one of Ireland's most unique visitor attractions. We offer a top of the range house tour, a unique 3D exhibition, a maze, gift shop, free walkways, self catering accommodation and cafe. Our Artisans display many unique crafts from candle making, blacksmithing and wood sculpting to goldsmithing, weaving and ceramics in their studios in the outhouses of Russborough"