Elizabeth Birdthistle

Subscribe now Mealy, from Beechfield House in Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny, was one of Ireland’s leading provincial auctioneers, and a popular figure on the Irish and UK art and antiques circuit. He laid down the gavel in 2018, opting instead to offer valuations and an art advisory service. True professional Described as “a bit of a legend” in the collecting world, he was considered to be one of the most successful and astute practitioners in the trade.

Described as being of national importance on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, this six-bedroom house is in need of renovation. With 364sq m (3,918sq ft) of space surrounded by 0.3 of a hectare (0.8 acre) of private gardens, it is a protected structure so will require a conservation architect. With some magnificent features, it could – with deep pockets – become a truly stunning period home. Price: €695,000.