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History

Over the years

Dunleer’s Market House and adjacent Coach House was built around the mid 1820’s. Although the exact date is not known, it was first mentioned in 1827 in print and first appeared on land survey maps of the area in 1836. It was constructed by Henrietta de Salis – Soglio (nee Foster) wife of Jerome, 4th Count de Salis-Soglio (1771-1836), the local landlord. The Market House was where trade of goods were levied and dues were paid to the estate. Later in the mid 19th century, it became the residence on the Dunleer landlord’s agent. Around this time, the De Salis Family sold their Dunleer Estate to the Bellew family of Barmeath Castle, Grangebellew. In the late 19th century, the Market House became vacant and the lease was agreed between the Roman Catholic Church and the Bellew estate. The Market House then ceased its function at this time becoming the Roman Catholic parochial house. 

In 1921 the lease was bought out and the house passed into the ownership of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Armagh. In 1996, new owners renamed it as Bramble Lodge and it became a family run Bed and Breakfast house. In 2003 Louth County Council purchased the property. In 2007, Dunleer Community Development Board (DCDB) started to research what could they do to bring the Market House back into community use. The DCDB took charge of the Market House on August 26th 2011 via a 99 year lease at a nominal annual rent.

From 2011 to 2012 the DCDB worked on a business plan to make the case for returning the house to its former glory. In 2013 funding was secured  via Louth Leader Partnership and a very generous private donation enabling restoration to commence in September of that year and the Market House reopened on 25th July 2014.

 

 

Mission Statement

By working in partnership with, voluntary community groups, individuals and  government agencies develop sustainable services of a community, recreational and educational nature that benefits all within this community and gives due consideration to the environmental and social needs of the area.

What We Do

Here For The Community

Our country house is available and able to accommodate a variety of occasions, including:

  • Corporate events and meetings
  • Community meetings
  • Product and media launches
  • Personal room hire
  • Courses and classes
  • Photo shoots
  • Courses, classes and seminars