Costelloe Lodge

A historic Connemara fishing lodge, a survivor of the Titanic, and a remarkable story of restoration.

Nestled along Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way, overlooking the waters of the Atlantic and the mountains of Connemara, Costelloe Lodge is a house with an extraordinary past.

In 1913, J. Bruce Ismay, chairman of the White Star Line and a survivor of the Titanic disaster, purchased this secluded fishing retreat and its celebrated salmon and sea-trout fishery. Following the destruction of the original lodge during the Irish Civil War, the house was rebuilt in the 1920s to a design by one of Britain's most distinguished architects, Sir Edwin Lutyens.

Costelloe Lodge - A Short History of This Connemara Home explores the fascinating people and events behind this historic property, from Ismay's passion for fishing to the architectural genius of Lutyens and the possible influence of renowned garden designer Gertrude Jekyll.

The book also tells the remarkable story of the lodge's recent rescue from neglect. Through a painstaking three-year restoration, its present owners have brought the house and gardens back to life, preserving their Edwardian character while creating a welcoming home for a new generation of visitors.

Richly illustrated with photographs and images, this charming volume also ventures beyond the lodge to discover Connemara's castles, villages, traditional boats, maritime heritage and breathtaking scenery.

Part local history, part architectural heritage and part personal restoration story, this beautifully illustrated book celebrates a remarkable Irish home and the people who have shaped its history.

An enjoyable read for anyone interested in the Titanic, Irish history, historic houses, architecture, gardens or the timeless beauty of Connemara.