Longueville House to change hands

The estate has been in the hands of the O’Callaghan family for generations with a ‘little break’ when Cromwell forced the family out (the story of so many proud Irish families).

It was Michael and his wife Jane, parents of today’s owner William O’Callaghan, who saw the potential of the grounds and house. He was a visionary who looked into the future and established the orchard that is still going strong today.

Jane O’Callaghan run the bed and breakfast while Michael looked after the farm, providing the produce Jane needed – especially after she opened the President’s Restaurant which gathered interest from food lovers close at home and further afield.

None other than Keith Floyd visited Longueville House and cooked with feisty Jane – what a compliment from a great chef. Jane was well able for him and they had a ball together.

William took over the running of the estate when his father passed away in 2010 and together with his wife Aisling has continued to grow the reputation of Longueville House as a food destination and excellent wedding venue.

It is sad to see that a longstanding family business is coming to an end – we don’t have that many left in Ireland.

I haven’t contacted William to ask the reasons behind the sale but one can assume that the pandemic got something to do with it and maybe quality of life has become more important.

Whatever the reason, I am sad to see the family ending the long reign. I have eaten there a few times (never stayed overnight though) and the food was always delicious, fresh and prepared with skill and care.

I worked a few times with William and Aisling, holding two critic’s nights there as well as organising some small music gatherings.

Weddings at Longueville House have always been special and couples from as far as the States have chosen estate for their vows.

Their afternoon tea was just out of this world and Sunday lunch was an affair with a roast spit on the open fire in the drawing room.

Michael O’Callaghan started making cider and brandy from the orchard harvest and both continue to win awards to this day. I had the pleasure of trying some of the original brandy awhile back in Urru in Bandon – I have to admit, I prefer the newer version with is much smoother structure but brandy enthusiasts would have loved the earthy and textured brandy very much.

The cider is also different from any commercial version with its musty aroma and ripe apple notes – nothing like the over-sweetened version of the ‘other stuff’ (not naming any brands!).

Let’s hope that the new owner of Longueville House will continue in the old tradition of the estate – it would be heartbreaking to see it go.