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The history of the estate dates to the 17th century when it was originally built by the Leslie family who settled in Ireland during the Plantation of Ulster. Over the centuries, the castle has been home to generations of the Leslie family, witnessing triumph and tragedy and playing a pivotal role in Irish history.
As landowners, the Leslie family helped shape the region’s economic and social fabric during periods of upheaval and social change. From the struggles for Irish independence to the fight for social justice and equality, the estate has been a silent observer of life’s ebb and flow throughout its history.
The family played a crucial role during one of the darkest periods in Irish history. In the mid-19th century, Ireland was ravaged by the Potato Famine, a period of widespread hunger and hardship.
In response to the crisis, the family, stewards of Castle Leslie Estate, devised a plan to provide relief to struggling tenants. They provided food and financial assistance to their tenants as well as employment, constructing surrounding walls to the estate. The walls, crafted from locally quarried stone, rose defiantly against adversity and remain a symbol of resilience and solidarity to this day.
Fast-forward 300 years, and Castle Leslie Estate is a timeless tribute to a bygone era. Yet, it remains not only a historic landmark but also a cornerstone employer for Glaslough Village and a steadfast supporter of local causes.
Today’s success story can be attributed to one dedicated and visionary woman, current custodian and owner of the historic property, Sammy Leslie. Just 30 years ago, at the tender age of 24, Sammy’s father gave her the front door key and little else. She received one-fifth of one-third of the remnants of the estate. Over the decades, she has striven to pull this amazing legacy back together, preserving its heritage while infusing it with elegance and charm.
Sammy’s journey began in childhood, surrounded by the estate’s untamed beauty and fascinating tales of its storied past. Even from an early age, Sammy had an unwavering passion for its preservation.
In 1992, with a handful of local teenagers, a talented baker, and a £5k grant from the County Enterprise Board, she opened the tea rooms in the leaky conservatory of the castle. And so it began – Sammy’s mission to breathe new life into the estate.
Her ultimate plan was to build a robust social enterprise that reinvests everything to support nature and heritage-led restoration on the estate within communities. She set out to create the best place to live, learn, work, stay, and play in a planet-friendly way.
Establishing the Leslie Foundation in 2017 was crucial to realizing this vision. In a world facing numerous crises, Sammy is driven by a philosophy of collaboration, inclusion, diversity, climate justice, and equality in all its guises. This philosophy is anchored deeply in an appreciation of the value of our natural capital – the beauty and richness of the land.
The Leslie Foundation’s manifesto is bold and clear in purpose. It sets out how the foundation will protect, restore, and share the land for the centuries to come, wrapping it in nature and positioning Castle Leslie Estate as one of Ireland’s finest working estate destinations.
Sammy seeks to foster ongoing discussion on circular projects, circular economies, and inclusive thinking. She wants to position Castle Leslie Estate as a model of best practice and a pioneering project in the realm of true sustainability and climate justice. Her wish is to create a sanctuary where individuals can stay, reside, learn, rejuvenate, and find solace.
Under Sammy’s stewardship, the castle underwent extensive restoration to restore its grandeur and ensure its long-term sustainability. Historic buildings were meticulously preserved, while modern amenities were seamlessly integrated to enhance the guest experience.
The castle’s interiors were lovingly refurbished, blending period features with contemporary touches to create a luxurious and inviting ambiance. Each room was carefully curated to reflect the estate’s unique character, offering guests a glimpse into the past while discretely providing the comforts of modern living.
Sammy then set her sights on The Lodge at Castle Leslie Estate; a former hunting lodge built in the 19th century. The restoration involved meticulous attention to detail, with period features carefully preserved and restored to their former glory. The result is a boutique hotel, separate from the castle, that seamlessly blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance.
Each room and suite are beautifully appointed, featuring luxurious furnishings, plush bedding, and modern amenities, from gourmet dining experiences to spa treatments and outdoor adventures such as horseback riding, fishing, or hot air ballooning – there is something for everyone to enjoy.
In addition to preserving its heritage, Sammy was committed to making Castle Leslie Estate a model of sustainable tourism. Environmental initiatives were implemented throughout the estate, from energy-efficient heating to organic farming practices in the castle’s gardens. Sammy also sought to support the local community by sourcing produce and goods from local artisans and businesses, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration that is deeply rooted in Castle Leslie Estate’s ethos.
Innovating further, Sammy plans to create a contemporary biophilic space overlooking Glaslough Lake – a welcome and orientation center for the estate and the local area. This cutting-edge green space, known as the ‘Green Box,’ is recognized as a Hero project in the Monaghan Destination and Experience Development Plan.
This world-class, high-tech green space will explore our relationship with plants and the planet over the millennia and into the future. It will also offer a space to protect and exhibit estate archives and collections in a contemporary gallery setting.
This event and exhibition space will support an expanding experience program on themes of biodiversity, soil, water, wind, and sun. These themes will be explored in the context of sustainable food production with expanded cookery, food, garden schools, and conscientious food and beverage retailing.
Sammy Leslie’s energy and infectious enthusiasm know no bounds. It infuses every aspect of her work and life, propelling her forward with unstoppable determination and passion. As she continues to guide the estate into the future, Sammy’s legacy as a steward of Ireland’s heritage and a sustainability champion will forever remain firmly etched in its storied walls.
The estate as it exists today is a testament to Sammy’s vision. A haven of tranquillity and luxury, the castle and The Lodge welcome guests from all walks of life and all corners of the globe to experience the magic of Irish hospitality amidst stunning surroundings. From its elegant accommodations to world-class amenities, the Castle Leslie Estate effortlessly delivers an unforgettable experience for those seeking a unique and immersive retreat.
Read the latest edition of Spirit of Ireland.
