Three exceptional Irish homes where heritage meets leisure

Sophie Halligan

From grand period estates to immersive countryside retreats, Ireland’s high-end property market is evolving in 2026.

Increasingly, it is not just about scale or heritage, but about lifestyle, with homes designed around privacy, wellbeing and a sense of escape. At the centre of this shift is one defining feature, the swimming pool.

Emsworth, Malahide Road, Kinsealy, Co Dublin

Selling Agent: Sherry FitzGerald Country Homes, Farms & Estates

Asking Price: €9,250,000

Emsworth is an exceptional Georgian estate that brings together historic elegance and modern luxury in a truly private setting just outside Dublin city.

Originally designed in 1794 by James Gandon, the house has been carefully restored and extended to create a home of remarkable scale and comfort.

The grounds unfold across approximately 75 acres, with landscaped gardens, woodland and a lake, while the outdoor amenities elevate it to something closer to a private resort, complete with a heated swimming pool, jacuzzi and beautifully designed spaces for entertaining.

Baltrasna House, Ardee, Co Louth

Selling Agent: Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty (Country Homes)

Asking Price: €1,800,000

Baltrasna House is a distinguished period residence dating from around 1840, where classical proportions meet a warm and inviting modern finish.

Set on more than six acres of mature grounds, the house is designed for both elegant entertaining and everyday living, with generous reception rooms and carefully preserved original features.

Outside, the gardens lead to a secluded pool area that offers a peaceful retreat, adding a layer of relaxed luxury to this gracious country home.

Cangort House, Shinrone, Birr, Co Offaly

Selling Price: Sherry FitzGerald Fogarty

Asking Price: €1,650,000

Cangort House is a characterful and historic home that blends Jacobean style architecture with contemporary design.

Set within nearly 24 acres, the property incorporates the remains of a 17th century castle, giving it a unique sense of heritage.

The grounds are equally impressive, with mature gardens and equestrian facilities, while a natural swimming pool provides a standout feature.

Surrounded by planting and free from chemicals, it offers a calm and considered approach to outdoor living in a peaceful rural setting.

Taken together, these three homes reflect the variety and character of Ireland’s premium property market, where historic architecture and carefully considered additions sit side by side.

While each property takes a different approach, the inclusion of a swimming pool adds a distinctive layer to how these homes are enjoyed.

For more properties like these, visit MyHome.ie.