Lisa Marie breezed into town with her eight-person entourage for a recent private viewing of the 17th century castle. Cork city-based auctioneer Liam Lynch accompanied her on her tour of the property which is located 20 miles from the southern capital. "She's just a normal person. She's very pleasant and chatty, " says Liam. "She's looking at other properties in the area too.

She spent five days in Ireland and we're expecting her back here again shortly."

The castle is currently owned by an American family who purchased it in 1984.

According to Liam Lynch, the property, which is situated on a 300-acre estate, is suitable as a private residence but could also be transformed into a hotel. "You would have to spend some money converting it but it would probably work well as a hotel because of its excellent location."

It is rumoured locally that an internationally renowned hotel group, not yet established in Ireland, is also considering the purchase of the castle.

Mallow Castle was the 16th century seat of the lord president of Munster and the home of his family for four centuries.

The 'new' castle, occupied since 1689, overlooks the stately 'old' castle ruins, which date back to 1593.

The building has many special features including an elm-panelled drawing room with an open fireplace. Windows open to views of the grounds and the castle ruin.

The wood-panelled dining room seats 14 people comfortably. There's a library, a music room with grand piano, and a billiard room. There are 12 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms.

There is a 200-acre deer park where over 100 white deer roam freely and the estate provides 4km of salmon fishing along the river Blackwater.

Liam Lynch is earning a reputation locally as the purveyor of period property to the rich and famous.

In 2002 he organised the sale of Castle Hyde in Fermoy to Michael Flatley.

"Michael is delighted with his property and these days actually spends a lot of time there."

Liam Lynch Auctioneers, 021-4275786