James Tymons late19th century cottage with its cowbire and old stone out buildings is a haven of tranquillity yet only 1km from the bustling village of Gurteen. It nestles in 30 acres of stone walled fields.
We have many prepared tracks leading from the house by the river and through the trees to the fields and meadows beyond, ideal for quiet walks and relaxation after returning from exploring the wonderful and varied landscape of Yeats country or attractions such as Eagles flying in the Raptor research centre and farmers market in Boyle. Check out our website tymons cottage west for special offers.
In the evenings relax as we do with turf fires in the living room or stroll to the village to enjoy traditional Irish music in the local pubs (this is the heart of traditional Irish music). Our garden furniture and BBQ are ideal for those lazy sunny evenings. Stay with us and discover why our guests return again and again.
Size:
Sleeps up to 5, 2 bedrooms
Nearest beach:
Strandhill, 39km
Will consider:
Corporate lets House swaps Short breaks
Access:
Car advised Nearest amenities: 1km
Family friendly?
Suitable for children of all ages Unsuitable for people with restricted mobility
Single beds (1), Double beds (2), Cots (1), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 5
Other:
Linen and towels provided Highchair available
Outdoors:
Private garden, BBQ, Private fishing lake / river
Access:
Secure parking
Further details indoors: *Our living room contains a good selection of books and plenty of games not to mention a cosy open fire with unlimited turf. * We have satalite TV a DVD player and a selection of movies. *We have a Stanley stove in the dining room. We provide all the fuel. *We also provide a cot, high chair and a stair gate for our younger guests.
Further details outdoors: *We provide turf (peat) for the open fire and stove free. The fuel is stored in one of our sheds. *The property has gates which can be closed If you so wish. *We have gardens to the front and side of the house. *Unlimited access to all of the land and most of the buildings. *Prepared and mowed paths lead from around the house by the river and up through the trees and stone walls to the fields and meadows beyond. There is no charge for bringing your pets and they will just love the space. to play and run.
Further details
*We provide a welcome pack and we meet all our guests on arrival. *Our caretaker lives close by. *We have garden furniture ideal for eating out or just relaxing in the sunshine.
Conditions
*House trained pets are welcome. *Our house is a non smoking one, we request guests smoke outside. *20% of rental rate required to secure booking. *Remainder due 8 weeks prior to commencement of rental period.
The rugged landscape is steeped in history. Many of the caves and passage tombs in the surrounding hills are linked with Irish myth and legend. This is ideal country for the outdoor enthusiast.Enjoy hillwalking in the nearby hills and closer to home feel free to ramble the stone walled fields of the farm.
The Oranmore river forms a picturesque backdrop to the land which is dotted with many mature chestnut and beech trees. Lough Gara with its Crannogs (lake dwellings) dating back to 1000bc is close by.The town of Boyle with its impressive ruined Abbey and weekly farmers market is 16km away Ballymote with its ruined Norman castle is a major centre for angling and also has a golf course.
There are megalithic tombs at Carrowkeel in the Bricklieve mountains close to the caves of Kesh which has wonderful views from its summit. Wonderful beaches at Strandhill Rosses point and Mullaghmore.
The Gurteen area
Gurteen is a Mecca for traditional Irish music. The Coleman centre in the village hosts weekly events and a music festival every summer. The friendly local pubs also have regular music sessions. Two of the pubs also serve food. The villagers and visitors are well catered for with a supermarket, post office, petrol station,a hotel.and a pharmacy.
The neighbouring towns host numerous festivals throughout the summer months while Boyle has an Arts festival in July. Close by visit the Irish Raptor centre and watch these marvellous eagles in action. Gilligans world is a great day out for the young ones.
See Yeats " lake Isle of Innisfree",visit historic Lissadel house and King house or take scenic drives through the curlew mountains and marvel at Wynnes view.
How to get there
James Tymon selfcatering
What's nearby:
Attractions
Restaurants
Click map icons for more information
Nearest Travel Links
Airport:
Knock International airport: 37 km
Railway:
Ballymote: 11 km
Ferry:
Dublin port: 201 km
Fly to Knock international airport (knockairport.com) its approximately 40 minutes from our cottage. The airport is serviced by budget airlines such as Ryan air (ryanair.com) bmibaby(bmibaby.com).
Car hire available from Hertz (hertz.ie), Avis (avis.ie) and Caseys (caseycar.com).
Irish Ferries (irishferries.com) and Stena Line (stenaline.co.uk) operate numerous daily sailings between the UK and Ireland.
I will provide full and clear directions to our cottage from any place in Ireland.
Activities near Gurteen
Sports: Horse Riding Golf within 30 mins drive Fishing
Great for: Walking holidays Rural / countryside retreats Beach or lakeside relaxation
“Look no further this cottage is superb, you will not be disappointed!”
What a find! An excellent warm welcoming cottage superbly located for touring this idylic part of Ireland. The cottages extensive lands were a gem for our Hungarian Vizsla who never tired of chasing... more
Response: It was a great pleasure having you and your family stay at the cottage. I am very pleased you found it such a good base from which to discover this part of Ireland. As you have found for those with... more
01 May 2013
“Search no further !”
I expect that anyone who gets as far as reading this review is considering renting the cottage. Well, save yourself a lot of further eye strain and book it.
There's no point in me repeating what others have already written, which is all true and which I wholeheartedly endorse. What I will add to the previous reviews is that the course fishing in the area is equal to the superb accommodation . Whether you fish on Lough Gara or the Lung river, they're both full of fish ! So what more could anyone wish for? The very best appointed cottage and arguably, the fishing of a lifetime. A rare and valuable combination !
Finally. If you run short of anything the Supermarket, which is only a 5 minute drive away, stocks just about everything you'll need.
Response: Thank you for your warm endorsement. I am delighted your holiday was all you hoped it would be and that the cottage added to that enjoyment. You have discovered like other guests that some of the best coarse fishing in Ireland is all close at hand. looking forward to having you back at the cottage in the near future.
Kieran Ruane.
31 Mar 2013
“Exceptional in every way”
We stayed at James Tymon Farmhouse with our two young kids and our big red and white setter. We all fell in love with the place. Kieran's welcome was warm and the cottage is immaculate and fully... more
Response: I am delighted you and your family had such a good stay at James Tymon cottage. It was a real pleasure meeting you all. The walks through the land and by the river are a particular favourite of... more
“Amazing perfect cottage, Kieran is great. So clean, all you need and personal touches fantastic. Highly recommend”
I stayed at the cottage for a weekend with my husband, sister, brother-in-law, niece and my 2 labradors. Kieran welcomed us to his amazing cottage and grounds, just so perfect. In advance Kieran... more
Response: Thank you so much for your kind comments about my cottage and for taking the time and trouble to post a review. Its very satisfying to know that you and your family had such a wonderful stay at the... more
18 Jan 2013
“Best Cottage Experience”
We booked James Tymon farmhouse for 3 nights and ended up staying an extra night because we didn't want to leave. Kieran was so helpful, providing us driving directions and was there to greet... more
Response: It was a pleasure having you both stay at the cottage and your comments about your experience are greatly appreciated. The spacious grounds and paths are certainly welcomed by visitors and their... more
12 Oct 2012
“A Lovely Cottage, a real Home from Home in a Perfect Location”
We had a wonderful holiday at James Tymon Cottage. The cottage is without doubt the best holiday home we have ever stayed in. It was an added bonus that electricity and heating was included in the rental price, also an unlimited use of peat for the fires, so there was no extra charge to pay at the end of our stay.
When viewing the internet pictures, it is not possible to appreciate the charm and extent of what this property has to offer, it by far exceeded all our expectations, in every possible aspect.
The facilities and cleanliness in the property are second to none. On arrival we were met by Kieran, the owner, a peat fire burning in the sitting room and one in the dining room arger. A chilled bottle of wine in the fridge and a homemade apple pie along with tea, coffee and milk. A really warm and much appreciated welcome after a long journey with our 2 dogs.
The location of the property is perfect, being in a quiet rural area, a 15 min walk to Gurteen town with pubs, entertainment and local supermarket, also just a short drive from the busy towns of Ballyhunis, Ballymote and Charstown, all with many places to eat and drink and all with a wealth of traditional Irish entertainment. Sligo is very central and within easy reach of Rosscommon, Mayo, Galway and Donnegal.
I can only say that for us, the cottage, the location, the homeliness, the cleanliness, the outstanding facilities in the cottage and the surrounding walks and fields, made it a perfect holiday for Barry and I, and also for our 2 dogs Sally and Bailey.
We will most definately be back early 2013.
Margaret and Barry Didham (and Sally and Bailey)
Response: Thank you for your warm and generous comments about your stay at James Tymon cottage. I am very pleased it met with your expectations as in my opinion accomodation is such a major part of ones holiday. Having the benefit of space with 30 acres of grounds but yet within walking distance of the village of Gurteen makes it an ideal base. As you pointed out it is well located for touring and exploring not only Co Sligo but also the neighbouring counties of Galway Mayo Donegal and Roscommon. I very much look forward to welcoming you all back to the cottage in the near future.
“Incredibly welcoming, well located and beautiful property.”
We were welcomed to the cottage late one evening by Mr Ruane, who had spent the day readying the property and setting out a lovely tray of tea and yummy apple pie for us. The cottage itself is beautifully looked after with everything we needed for a relaxed holiday. From past experience we have noticed that holiday lets can sometimes have inferior, sometimes uncomfortable sofas and beds, but not here. After long days sightseeing we were able to light a turf fire and recline in the comfy living room and slept deeply in the beds upstairs. Really comfy.
One of the reasons we chose this property was the river which forms part of the grounds' border. My husband is a keen angler and wanted to include some fishing, which he did and thoroughly enjoyed. He enthuses to everyone about the quality of the fishing at that location. There's so much to see when taking a walk around the land which this house sits on. I like to practice photography and spent many hours roaming around taking pictures.
The cottage is located close enough to Gorteen to walk. It is also surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. I have spent many years travelling around Ireland, but had never spent any time in this area. It it definitely somewhere I intend returning to.
Response: It is very satisfying to read such warm comments about your stay at the cottage and the standard of comfort you found there. I am very pleased you and your husband derived so much pleasure from your photography around the grounds and his enjoyment of fishing on the river. Even though I don't fish myself the walk from the house down to and along by the river bank and back through the land is one of my favourites. I am really pleased the cottage played such a memorable part in your holiday. Thank you for your kind comments and I hope you will return to Co Sligo and to this cottage. Kieran.
04 Jun 2012
“We'll be back!”
What a great experience! Charming cottage, all that was advertised and more. Very clean, nicely fitted with all the conveniences needed. Great location for exploring the West. Gurteen is nice and... more
Response: I am delighted you found the cottage and grounds to your liking and that it was everything you expected. As you said Gurteen which is only 1km away has a very strong traditional music scene not alone... more
26 May 2012
“All the comforts of home in a PERFECT setting”
The pictures on the website only hint at the real charm of this house. We arrived to a spotless house, turf fires burning in the parlor fireplace and dining room stove, a welcoming apple pie and chilled bottle of wine, every appliance one needs for their stay (hair dryer, iron, washer/dryer, satellite TV, radiant heat throughout, all kitchen appliances are first rate). The owner had recently mowed walking paths along the river and elsewhere throughout the many-acre property. Patio furniture and picnic table/bench by the river looked brand new. Book shelf was filled with an eclectic assortment - something for everyone, including children. The house is a lovely 20 minute walk into the town of Gurteen, where the shop-keepers and "Publicans" were very welcoming. If you wish for a quiet country retreat, or a home-base from which to explore Ireland, this is the perfect spot.
Response: Than you for your very kind and thoughtful review. It is a great pleasure for me when I know guests have had a happy stay in the old farmhouse. Walking by the river or through the trees has always been one of my favourite things to do so I am really pleased you also enjoyed them.Hopefully you will make a return visit in the future and be assured the welcome will be the same. Kieran Ruane.
Marion, Matthew, Natasha and Pippa the dog had a fantastic time at the house. It was spotlessly clean, very comfortable and very well equipped. The house was quiet but yet very central to lots of places and things to do. We loved the walks around the grounds, especially Pippa (the springer). We played the games and read some of the books, just a home from home. It was really nice when we arrived to an apple pie and a cup of tea. Later we then sampled the wine left by the owner Kieran. I could not fault the house or Kieran in any way. We will be returning to the house hopefully next year. There are lots of other things that we would like to explore in that area. I wish Kieran all the best for the future. We would recommend this house for a true taste of ireland.
Marion,Matthew and Natasha not forgetting Pippa the dog.
Response: I am really pleased you enjoyed your stay and were so happy with the farmhouse.The paths around the house and down by the river are a great opportunity to stretch the legs not alone for oneself but especially ones pet after a days sight seeing.They have proven to be a great success with pet owners. Looking forward to you returning again in the future.Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts on your stay at the cottage.
Kieran.
04 Aug 2011
“Little piece of heaven.”
The farmhouse is welcoming and cosy everything you need and more is there for you. The garden and land is wonderful to explore and the scenery is differant each day. The fishing loughs are a great day out for all the family and there is lots of sight seeing to do you will find it hard to fit it all in. When that is all done relax with the open fire and a glass of wine.
Response: Its wonderful that you found the cottage welcoming and cosy.Its really important to me that all visitors enjoy their stay as I believe the cottage and land with its prepared paths form an important part of every holiday.It is certainly a beautiful area with lakes and mountains and lots to explore.With thoughts of a turf fire and a glass of wine on a cool evening in James tymon cottage perhaps we will meet again.Until then many thanks for your kind remarks. Kieran.
31 Jul 2011
“Perfect for a Stay in the West of Ireland”
We arrived to find the owner already waiting for us. A fresh apple pie and flowers made the cottage feel very welcoming. A bottle of wine in the fridge along with milk, tea, coffee etc. were also a lovely touch. The cottage is perfect for walks in the surrounding countryside otherwise you are not far from the main roads to get you on your way. The cottage has everything you will need for any length of stay and in the colder months there is a real live fire which makes the cottage feel very cosy.
Response: Thank you Wendy and Howard for your thoughtful and kind comments.It was a pleasure having you stay at the farmhouse.I am really pleased you enjoyed your holiday at the cottage and found it a good base for getting around.Relaxing in front of an open fire on a cold evening is the real thing and with unlimited turf available no worries about looking for supplies.I hope our paths will cross again at James Tymon cottage in the future. Kieran.
“The best maintained and presented house we have rented in Ireland.”
This property has been a real find, after 25 years of renting houses and cottages for family holidays throughout Ireland and Britain, this is the best maintained and presented house we have found in Ireland, and equalled only by one in Scotland. As a family we have a policy of never returning to the same house, but this time we will make an exception.
The owner, Kieran Ruane, has thought of everything a visitor might want or need. He is flexible about arrival times and start days, but rigid in his care for the property and the level of service he provides. On arrival you can expect a clean and tidy house, matched by the wonderful grounds which are meticulously kept for your enjoyment. We found cups and plates ready for a welcoming pot of tea, along with an apple pie and a few essentials in the fridge, even a bottle of wine. Fresh flowers gave a lovely touch to the main room.
The bedrooms boast the most comfortable beds we have ever slept in, high off the ground in the way of old Irish houses, but with the latest deep comfort mattresses which mean even those with back problems will enjoy a home away from home. I snuck a look at the mattress label so that I can buy one for myself!
For me the most important thing is that what you are quoted will be what you pay, everything is included in the price, heating, electricity, bedding, towels, a supply of traditional Irish turf for the fire and the beautiful kitchen range which supplements the more modern cooker and microwave. No unpleasant extra charges presented as a 'fait accompli' when you arrive, and no searching local shops and garages for supplies of fuel for the fire as we have experienced in other houses.
The grounds, as I have previously stated, are immaculately kept, with well maintained paths and walkways around 30 acres of fields, woods and along the river Owenmore which borders the property. At any time of the day or night you will have the place to yourself to explore, a real luxury.
As a location, it provides a great base for touring not just Sligo, but bordering counties of Roscommon and Mayo which can be reached easily from the village. Driving back towards Sligo City you can explore as we did, areas with names familiar from the poetry of WB Yeats in Sligo and Leitrim. A visit to Drumcliffe where the great poet is buried is a must.
I have never reviewed a property as highly as this, never recommended one to so many friends and aquaintances. In fact I hesitate to do so now because I fear it will never be available again when I want it!
Response: Thank you for such a wonderful and detailed review of James Tymon cottage.It gives me great pleasure to know that the cottage and grounds played a considerable role in the enjoyment of your holiday.It was an absolute pleasure having you as guests.I am really pleased that you found so much of what the cottage has to offer both internally and externally to your liking particularly the fact that everything is included in the price quoted with absolutely no hidden costs.As with yourselves the old wrought iron bed frames regularly draw a delightful response from guests. As you say its a great base not alone for investigating traditional Irish music but the beaches, markets, festivals, historic sites, summer schools and for touring the neighbouring counties of Mayo,Leitrim,Galway,Roscommon and Donegal. Recommending the cottage to your family and friends is indeed highly valued.A high proportion of our guests are regular visitors and so I hope to be welcoming you back in the not too distant future.
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