Billionaire throws gates of estate on the River Nore open to the public

Abbey Leix House and Farm, situated on the River Nore just over the border in Laois, will open its gates to visitors for its action packed Annual Family Day and to mark its 250th anniversary this weekend.

The Laois residence of tech billionaire John Collison will host an airshow, classic car rally, live music, arts, children's activities, garden tours and the Abbeyleix House and Farm 5K Run this Saturday, June 3 with proceeds going to charity. 

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The event promises a fun-filled day of activities, live entertainment and artisan delights for the whole family to enjoy between 11am and 5pm at the former home of the DeVesci family.

The organisers say it will also commemorate 250 years since the foundation stone of Abbey Leix House was laid to mark commencement of building works in June 1773.  Set on a 1,120 acre estate, the picturesque Abbey Leix House and Farm is home to some of Ireland’s most notable ancient woodlands with extensive frontage to the River Nore.       

Highlights of the Annual Family Day will include the Abbey Leix House and Farm 5K Run where visitors are invited to take a run or a brisk walk through the estate’s ancient woodlands. 

There’s entertainment for the little ones with magicians, face painters, train rides and circus acts, and a chance to explore the sensory play area in the Walled Gardens.

A local food and craft fair will offer visitors a chance to sample a delectable range of offerings from local food vendors, while browsing the many craft stalls.

There will be live musical performances throughout the day and tours of the scenic walled gardens.  

An art exhibition will take place in the Old Church. It features the work of five artists who were invited to create art inspired by the Abbey Leix House and grounds. These special pieces will be available to purchase.

Weather permitting, an air show will also take place on the day with visitors getting an opportunity to get a close up view of the many planes on display.

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There will be lots of classic motors at the event when the legendary Gordon Bennett Run celebrates its 20th anniversary with a rally of over 100 classic cars.

The event is being facilitated by Limerick billionaire and Stripe co-founder John Collison who purchased the house and lands, which were formerly part of the DeVesci family estate, for more than €10 million 2021. He subsequently purchased the derelict Millbrook House in Abbeyleix. It's understood he has plans to spend €6 million carrying out a complete renovation of the building in the grounds of the former estate.

Tickets are available for purchase online via Eventbrite. Early booking is advised as availability will be limited. Tickets are priced at €10 for adults and €5 for attendees between the ages of 12-18 years old. Children under the age of 12 will have free entry.

All proceeds raised from the ticket sales, raffle, and purchases of Abbey Leix House and Farm Kitchen produce will go directly to local charities—namely My Lovely Horse Rescue, the Abbeyleix and District Lions Club, and a community initiative in support of two Portlaoise girls participating in the Wheelchair Soccer World Cup.

In addition to onsite parking, there will also be a complimentary shuttle bus service departing from The Manor Hotel R32 VE24 and from Abbeyleix South NS R32 PP79 throughout the day.