It's the type of house that weaves a spell from the moment on entering, and as owner Noel Murray asks, "We fell for it right from the start . . . who wouldn't?"

Built circa 1783, the house was still in relatively good condition when Noel and his wife Anne bought it five years ago. It had been pretty much vacant for the previous 14 years, and the aim of the couple was to bring the property back to life with sensitive restoration and much-needed tender loving care.

"We always liked the idea of restoring a big country house.

When we bought it the walls were still in a good state, as were the plaster and lath ceilings, and the roof was surprisingly good too for its age.

There was a little bit of damp to be addressed and some of original floorboards had to be replaced. But so much of the original fittings were untouched and in perfect condition. You appreciate how well-designed and finished these old properties were, with so many features handmade, right down to the architraves, staircases and window shutters."

The couple highlighted such features as high ceilings, decorative plaster work and wall panelling with subtle heritage paint colours, particularly in the cool blues used in one bedroom and in a pretty panelled bathroom. In a house of this vintage, it's not uncommon to find two kitchens.

"We have the main one with the black stove and right next door to it is the 'back' kitchen with stairs leading up to the rear landing. This would originally have been the servants' domain. The original fireplace with crane still sits in the chimney breast, and we've left the smoking hooks attached to the ceiling."

Similiar details are evident throughout the 260 sq m (2,800 sq ft) property, but it should also be stressed that this is very much a family home . . . the couple have two grown-up daughters . . . and it is filled with natural light courtesy of tall Georgian windows in every room. Accommodation at ground floor level comprises the entrance hall, including a listed Georgian door with leaded side panels and fanlight and original staircase leading to the landing with picture window; the drawing room with white Italian marble fireplace and pine floors; diningroom with original stone fireplace, maple floor and French doors to the courtyard; breakfast room with original stone fireplace; laundry room, which combines modern plumbing and old-fashioned panelling and shelving; main kitchen with wood-burning stove and built-in larder; and service kitchen with half-door to coach entrance.

Upstairs are five period bedrooms, one of which is en suite, and several with cast iron fireplaces, Georgian cupboards and vintage wallpapers. The main bathroom retains window shutters and an antique pine cupboard.

Both this and the separate shower room also have their original wooden floors and wainscotting.

Opening from the diningroom and service kitchen is the very large, gravelled and landscaped courtyard that also includes a 900sq ft coachhouse waiting restoration by the next owner.

Cloghan is a small village off the N52, 30 minutes' drive form Ballinasloe, Tullamore and Athlone. Closer still are Birr, Banagher and the river Shannon.

Apart from the space and light, there is the character, history and fine craftsmanship to consider. They don't build them like this anymore.

Price: 465,000 Agent: Sherry FitzGerald O'Meara 0506-20862