tiled kitchen cum diningroom, fully "tted with maple units; utility, also with maple units and tiling; guest cloakroom; family bathroom, with bath and shower; and four bedrooms, the master being en-suite. All rooms have hardwood "oors.

ARDMORE is one of the most historic of Co Waterford's towns, relatively unspoilt and within easy reach of a number of quiet beaches. A new boutique hotel, owned by Barry O'Callaghan of Riverdeep, is currently under construction, while its period counterpart . . . the Old Rectory . . .

is now up for sale. Described as one of the finest houses in the town, the rectory is a circa 465sq m (5,000sq ft) residence on some 1.25 acres, and bursting with oldworld character. Currently in use as an upmarket country home open to guests, the property could revert back to a rather special, private family home, according to selling agent Brian Gleeson.

Approached along extensive grounds bordered by mature trees, the rectory bears the characteristic hallmarks of its 18thcentury heritage in the sash windows and impressive front elevation. In the main house, there are two elegant reception rooms, a less informal family room and traditional country kitchen.

Each of the four bedrooms has a designated name related to its interior style, such as the Blue Bedroom, which has a slipper bath and views of the historic Round Tower. The Green Room by contrast, looks out on the sprawling countryside. At the lower level of the house is a large cellar. An annexe was added to the property in l990, considerably adding to the space with an openplan living/kitchen/diningroom and two en-suite bedrooms. A third bedroom is currently used as an holistic centre.

As befitting a grand country estate, the rectory comes with its own orchard. Twenty apple trees are about to provide an abundant crop come the autumn, while the sea, just five minutes from the house, is sure to attract immediate attention.

All carpets, curtains, fixtures and fittings . . . including the full silk drapes in the drawingroom . . . are included in the sale.

Price: 2.5m Joint agents: Liam Gleeson & Sons 024-94 777; Noelle Morrison 021-431 5676