Guest Information

Dear Guest,

On behalf of the Management and Staff of the Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort,

Welcome.

More than just a hotel, leisure and golf resort, Tulfarris is one of the most picturesque hotels in Wicklow.

I hope you will enjoy all the locality has to offer from scenic lakeside drives, cycling and walking routes, many within the resort itself and the Blessington Greenway which links the historic town of Blessington to the Palladian mansion at Russborough House. Historic attractions such as the Glendalough Monastic sites are all but a short drive from the resort  

During your visit, we hope you will have the opportunity to sample our superb cuisine prepared by our talented team of chefs in our Fairways Restaurant and also our bar menu in our relaxing Brasserie Bar.

I do hope you enjoy your stay at Tulfarris and if you do need anything throughout your stay please let us know.

Kind Regards

Darren Byrne

Resort General Manager

Table of Contents

A

ACCOMMODATION SERVICES:

Our Housekeeping service is provided between 9am and 3pm daily.

Should a ‘Do not Disturb’ sign be hanging on your door at 2pm and you require fresh towels, shampoo etc please contact Hotel Reception by dialling 7000

Please note, there is an iron & ironing board and an additional pillow in your wardrobe.

If you have forgotten some essentials while packing, the following ‘Kits’ are available:

Dental care, Shaving Kit, (complimentary)

Shower Cap, Sewing Kit, and Shoe Care Kit (Complimentary).

Please contact reception, by dialling 7000 for a kit to be delivered to your room.

Do Not Disturb signs are to be placed on the outer handle of your door, if you do not wish to be disturbed by Housekeeping or alternatively Room Ready for Service, once you have vacated your room.

ADAPTORS & TRANSFORMERS:

In Ireland, the normal electric current is 220/240 Volts; as a result 110/115 volts appliances require a voltage transformer. A limited number are available in our vending machines located on the ground floor.

AIRPORT INFORMATION:

The nearest airport is Dublin Airport which is 53km approx a 50 minute drive away.

Dublin Airport           Tel:      01 814 1111 – Flight Arrival and Departure enquiries

Knock International Airport Tel: 094 9368100

Shannon Airport Tel: 061 712000

ALLERGIES:

If you suffer from any allergies, please inform reception by dialling 7000

ATM/BANK:

The nearest cash point is located in Blessington town.  There is an ATM located at both the Ulster Bank & Allied Irish Bank in the centre of the town.

Banks available in Blessington:

Allied Irish Bank 

Tel: 045 865151

Ulster Bank  

Tel: 045 865125

B

BAR:

The Brasserie Bar is situated on the ground level of the Hotel. Opening times are as follows:

Monday – Thursday:
10.00am – 11.30pm

Friday – Saturday:
10.00am – 00.30am

Sunday:
10.00am – 11.00pm

Hotel guests will be served after public closing time, should there be sufficient demand and at the discretion of the property. Guests are required to show their registration card to the Bar Staff. The law does not permit non-residents to accompany hotel guests in the bar after public closing time.

Under the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003, it is an offence to buy alcohol or for someone to buy it for you, if you are under age 18. It is also an offence for you to drink alcohol unless you are in a private residence and have your parents’ consent.

It is an offence for you to be in an off-licence unless you are with a parent or guardian.

Children are only allowed on licensed premises if they are with a parent or guardian, but this provision carries certain restrictions. If accompanied by a parent/guardian, a child may remain on the premises up to 9pm (10pm from May to September) unless the licensee holder feels this is harmful to the child’s health, safety and welfare. Children aged between 15-17 years may remain on the premises after 9pm where they are attending a private function at which a substantial meal is served.

BATH MATS:

Bath mats are available in all bathrooms and should be used on entering the bath / shower.

BLANKETS:

If you require extra blankets, please contact reception by dialling 7000 and we will deliver them to your room.

BREAKFAST:

Monday – Friday:
07.00am – 10.30am

Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Mondays:
7.00am – 11.00am

Full Irish Breakfast is €15.00 per person, while our Continental breakfast is €9.50 per person

Room service for Breakfast is served between 8.00am – 10.00am.

A room service breakfast menu is available on the back of your door, which is to be clearly filled out and placed on the outside of your door before 3.00am for collection. A tray charge of €6.00 per person will apply.

BUS STATION:

There is a bus stop located in Blessington.

Please ask at reception for directions and bus times.

C

CAR-PARKING:

There is complimentary car-parking available for all guests of the hotel.

Please do not leave valuables on display in your car and ensure that your car is locked. We do not take responsibility for cars or their contents, while parked in the car park.

CHECK-IN / CHECK-OUT:

Check-in to the hotel is 4.00pm. Check-out is 12.00 noon, which can be extended by prior arrangement, but is subject to availability and at an additional charge. If no arrangement has been agreed, the hotel reserves the right to charge a supplement onto your bill.

CHILDCARE:

The comfort, safety and security of all our guests are our primary concern. Please do not leave ‘minors’ under the age of 16 unattended in the hotel, as the responsibility for our junior guests lies with their parents/guardians. If you do have younger guests with you, your co-operation is requested in ensuring that they are supervised and under your control at all times.

We can arrange a babysitter during your stay. The charge is €15.00ph and is payable direct to the sitter. Pre-booking is essential.

COMMENTS:

How are we doing?……. as part of our customer care programme, we are always delighted to receive comments from guests, based on their experience at the Hotel.

CONFERENCE & MEETING ROOMS:

Within easy reach of Dublin and Dublin Airport, Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is a Meeting & Conference Hotel in Wicklow that features purpose built, flexible spaces. Whether it’s a conference for 320 people theatre style with break-out rooms required, or a strategy away day for your senior management, let alone the facility to launch your new car (indoors) to the market, Tulfarris can cater for it all.

The combination of a stunning venue and meticulous planning makes Tulfarris Hotel one of the best event venues in Ireland. Use the event area on its own or with the Manor House where your immediate party can enjoy the luxury of the magnificently restored 18th Century Manor rooms, drawing rooms, private dining room and library.

It doesn’t have to be all work; we also have a range of amenities to avail of, both on and off-site, should you like to mix business with pleasure.

CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED:

American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Laser.

CHURCH TIMES:

Church of our Lady – Blessington

Saturday Vigil:
6.00pm

Sunday:
10.00am, 7.30pm

Holydays:
10.00am 8.00pm

Weekdays Monday – Friday 9.30am (Mass for the sick every Monday at 9.30am)

First Friday:
9.30am & Padre Pio 8.00pm

Confessions:
Saturday 12.00 – 12.30pm & after 7.30pm Mass

Novena:
Our Lady of Perpetual Help      Wednesday 9.30am

Padre Pio:
First Friday of every month 8.00pm

St Mary’s Church of Ireland- Blessington

Morning Prayer:
10.30am

D

DAMAGES:

We reserve the right to charge your credit or debit card for any damage done to your room during your stay. Charges will be in line with costs to repair / replace items damaged to include any labour costs incurred

DENTIST / DOCTOR:

Please contact Reception, by dialling 7000 if you require assistance in making an appointment with a Doctor or Dentist.

DINNER:

Dinner is served in our Fairways Restaurant from 6.00pm to 9.00pm. There is a Table d’hôte Menu on offer, complimented by an extensive Wine List.  Reservations are necessary. Please dial 7000 to contact reception and book your table.

DOORS AND WINDOWS:

Please be aware of all windows and doors in your guest room, especially if you have young children staying with you, and we would advise that the windows and doors are kept closed, or that supervision is exercised while windows and doors are open.

E

ELECTRICITY:

The electrical voltage in Ireland is 220/240 volts. Please check your appliance to ensure compatibility.

EXPRESS CHECKOUT:

If you require an express checkout, please contact reception in advance, who will advise you of the balance to be debited from you credit/debit card. A copy of both your credit card transaction slip and your bill will be delivered to your room.

F

FIRE SAFETY:

The safety of our guests is of immense importance to us. Please take a few moments to familiarise yourself with the emergency procedure as outlined below:

Fire Alarm Test:

Our Fire Alarm is tested on a weekly basis at 12 noon each Wednesday. Our hotel conducts periodic fire drills for the safety of employees and guests alike. Should a fire drill be scheduled during your stay, you will be informed of this at check-in.

Only on this occasion, should no action be required by guests, but at all other times, when the fire alarm sounds continuously, please evacuate your room immediately via your nearest fire exit. There is a floor plan on the back of your bedroom door, advising of the nearest escape route.

In Case of a Fire:

Do not open the windows.
There is a floor plan on the back of your bedroom door, advising of the nearest escape route.
Please familiarize yourself well of your location and nearest emergency exit.
Our Hotel is equipped with smoke detectors and fire extinguishers for your safety.
Should you detect a fire, please activate the nearest break glass point and contact reception by dialling 7000, then proceed to the nearest exit.
Should the fire alarm sound, please exercise caution before leaving the room by touching your guest room door to see if it is hot to the touch. If it is, do not open it and immediately contact reception by dialling 7000
Do not use the elevators. Use the nearest Fire Escape s
Please proceed to the Hotel’s Fire Assembly Point, which is located by the car park to the right of the main Hotel entrance and also in the Car Park located in front of the new golf shop. Identify yourself to the member of staff on duty by giving your name and room number.
Do not re-enter the Hotel under any circumstances, unless a member of the Fire Department directs you to do so. Guests with a disability should contact reception immediately, if they require assistance.

FLOWERS:

If you would like to send flowers or other gifts please contact reception who will be happy to make the necessary arrangements.

G

GOLF:

Standing by the shores of Blessington Lakes will leave you speechless. Set across three peninsulas, renowned course architect Patrick J. Merrigan has created a stunning 18-hole championship golf course paradise at Tulfarris. Whether you are a leading Pro or an enthusiastic beginner, Tulfarris Golf Course offers an exhilarating test in the garden of Ireland, Co. Wicklow.

Practise your skills on our driving range or putting green.

To reserve a Tee Time please contact the golf shop by dialling 7609

H

HAIR DRYERS:

There is a hairdryer available in each room. They are located on the dressing table or in the wardrobe.

HOUSEKEEPING:

Please refer to ‘Accommodation Services’ in this Guest Directory.

I

IRONS:

Irons & Ironing Boards are located in your wardrobe.

ICE:

Ice is available from our Brasserie Bar.  Please dial 7000

INTERNET:

We provide complimentary Wi-Fi in each of our guest bedrooms and in public areas.

If you wish to use Wi-Fi, please select Tulfarris Hotel.  No password is required.

INTERNATIONAL DIALING CODES:

Australia 0061
Greece 0030
Austria 0043
Ireland 00353
Belgium 0032
Italy 0039
Canada 001
Netherlands 0031
Denmark 0045
Norway 0047
Finland 00358
Spain 0034
France 0033
Sweden 0046
Germany 0049
Switzerland 0041
Great Britain 0044
USA 001

AT&T Operator: Please dial ‘9’ for an outside line followed by 1800550000

MCI Operator: Please dial ‘9’ for an outside line followed by 1800551001

Sprint Operator: Please dial ‘9’ for an outside line followed by 1800552001

K

KEYCARDS

For your safety and security, the hotel has installed an electronic locking system on all bedroom doors. In an effort to conserve energy, we have also installed an energy saving lighting system. Upon entering your bedroom, place the keycard into the slot on the wall located inside your door to turn on your lights. On departure from your room, please remove this card to turn off the lights.

In the interest of security, please do not write your name or room number on the keycard. Please return the keycards to reception upon checkout.

L

LAUNDRY

Sunny Laundrette is located in Blessington.

Ph: 045 851752

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS:

There are many local attractions on offer a short distance from Tulfarris Hotel.

Please see ‘Things to do’ in the back of this directory.

LOST PROPERTY:

If you have misplaced an item of your personal belongings, please contact reception by dialling 7000

LUNCH:

Our Brasserie Bar is a perfect place to meet with friends and soak up the atmosphere.  When weather permits, we have a beautiful terrace overlooking the 18th green and fairway with BBQ facilities to cater for up to 100 people.

Our Brasserie Bar serves a light bite food menu 12pm to 10pm daily.

LUGGAGE:

On the day of departure, if required, we would be happy to store some luggage for you at reception.

M

MESSAGES:

Unless instructed otherwise, all telephone calls will be transferred to your room. If there is no response from your room, we would be happy to take a message and deliver it to your room.

MAINTENANCE:

Dial 7000 to notify us of any urgent items that require attention.

N

NIGHTPORTER:

The Night Porter is on duty from 11.00pm to 7.00am. If you wish to contact him, please Dial 7000

NEWSPAPERS:

There are complimentary newspapers available from reception. Please note that there is only a limited supply available each morning.

P

PAYMENT OF GUEST ACCOUNTS:

All hotel bills should be settled prior to departing the hotel, unless prior arrangements have been made with our accounts department. We accept cash and all major credit cards.

PETS:

We do not allow pets in the hotel, with the exception of guide dogs.

PHARMANCY:

McGreals Pharmacy, Main St, Blessington (045) 865 197

PHOTOCOPYING:

We would be happy to do photocopying for you at reception. The standard price is 15c per sheet copied.

Q

QUESTIONS:

Any member of staff would be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

R

RECEPTION:

If you wish to contact reception, please dial 7000 The reception desk is operational 24 hrs a day. There is a receptionist on duty from 7.00am to 11.00pm and the Night porter is on duty from 11.00pm to 7.00am.

RESTAURANT:

The Fairways Restaurant is a sumptuous blend of tastes and flavours where world cuisine meets the best of Irish. As far as we can, all ingredients are sourced locally from Irish farmers and suppliers. Our wine list is second to none with wines selected from large and small vineyards around the world.

The Fairways Restaurant is open each evening and advance booking is strongly recommended. The restaurant is also available for private lunch parties.

ROOM SERVICE:

Room service for breakfast is served between 8.00am – 10.00am. There is a menu on the back of your door, which is to be clearly filled out and placed on the outside of your door before 3.00am for collection.

Room service for dinner is served from 6.00pm – 9.00pm. Please refer to the menu in this folder and ring reception by dialling 7000 to place your order.

24 hour room service is available for sandwiches. Please dial 7000 to place your order.

There is a room service charge, which will be automatically be added onto your room bill.

When you wish to have your room service tray collected, please contact reception by dialling 7000

A tray charge of €6.00 per person will apply.

S

SAFE:

There is a safe available in the wardrobe for your valuables. We recommend that you avail of this facility.

SMOKING:

Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort is a non-smoking hotel & smoking is strictly prohibited in the bedrooms. Should smoke be detected in your room during your stay or after your departure, you will incur a fine of €100 which will automatically be charged to the credit/debit card your booking was confirmed with.  This measure is taken due to the hotel being unable to re-sell the room

T

TEA/COFFEE MAKING FACILITIES:

There are Tea/Coffee making facilities available in each room. Should you require any additional items, please contact reception by dialling 7000

TELEPHONE:

For an outside line, please dial ‘9’ followed by the number you wish to call. For a selection of International codes, please refer to the ‘International Dialling Codes’ section of this guest directory.

INTERNAL EXTENSIONS:

Reception / Accommodation:
7000
Pro Shop:
7609

If you wish to contact another room, please dial 7 & their room number.

TELEVISION GUIDE:

Please see the ‘Television Guide’ section of this folder.

TAXI SERVICE:

If you wish to order a taxi, please contact reception by dialling 7000.  As much notice as possible is recommended as Taxis are limited especially at peak times.

TRAIN STATION:

The nearest train station is located 27km in Newbridge.

U

UMBRELLAS:

Umbrellas are available at reception on a first come first served basis with only limited number available.

V

VISITORS:

All unregistered guests are requested to leave guestrooms before 11.00pm.

W

WAKE UP CALL:

Should you wish to arrange an early morning wake-up call please contact reception

ROOM SERVICE MENU:

LIGHT BITES (5)

Homemade Soup Of The Day 1,3,8                    €6.00

Tulfarris Ballymore Wheat Brown Soda

Tulfarris Famous Chicken Wings           Starter    €9.00    Main         €15.00

Classic Frank’s Hot Sauce,

Blue Cheese Dressing, Celery Sticks

2,3,8

Warm Chicken & Bacon    Caesar Style Salad   Starter  €9.50   Main   €15.00

Baby Gem, Shaved Parmesan, Garlic Bread, Creamy Garlic, Parmesan & Parsley Dressing 1,2,5,8,13

Super Food Salad         Starter   €9.50      Main  €15.00

Broccoli, Feta, Pumpkin Seeds, Salad Leaves, Blueberry, Chia, Carrot & Orange 9 14

House Made Salt Cod Croquettes                             €9.00

Garden Fennel, Watercress, Sauce Gribiche

SANDWICHES (5)

All served with salad leaves & crisps

BLT Doorstop 1,2,5,8,10,13                       €9.00

Toasted Double Decker with Pat O’Niells  Bacon, Baby Gem, Vine Tomato, Gourmet Mayonnaise

Crispy Chicken Goujon Caesar Salad Wrap          €9.00

Baby Gem Lettuce, Croutons, Bacon, Parmesan,

Garlic Dressing1,2,5,8,10,13

Open Special On Sourdough Toast €9.00

Chicken, Bacon, Red Onion, Rocket,

Roasted Pepper & Brie1,2,8,10

Grilled Home Cooked Ham & Cheddar Sourdough

Dill Pickle , Tulfarris Tomato Chutney ,                     €9.00

VEGAN B.B.Q. Pulled Jackfruit                                   €9.00

Vegan Brioche, Avocado Slaw, Rocket , Crispy Onion

Add Cup of Soup or Chips to any Sandwich for €2.00

PIZZAS (3)

Margherita 1,2,8                                        €13.00

Vine Ripened Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Basil

Pepperoni1,2,8                                                          €13.00

Vine Ripened Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Double Pepperoni

Signature Gourmet 1,2,8                    €15.00

Vine Ripened Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Roasted Red Pepper, Pickled Onion, Cajun Chicken, Rocket

LARGER PLATES (7)

12 Hour Pot Roasted Feather Blade of Irish Beef €15

Horseradish Cream, Red Wine Onions, Watercress ,Port Jus

‘Classic’ Grilled 6oz Irish Beef Burger 1,2,5,8,13              €16.00

Baby Gem, Tomato, Dill Pickle, Tulfarris Tomato Chutney

Golden Fried Beer Battered Haddock 1,5,8,12,13 €17

Rustic Cut Skin on Fries,, Butter Confit Onion, Fresh Garden Peas, Lemon & Chunky House Tartar Sauce

Red Thai Chicken Curry 2,3,6,12                           €16.00

Green Coconut Rice, Roasted Squash, Roasted Red Pepper,  Spinach, Pickled Cucumber,  Lime Pickle, Rice Paper Crisp.

Grilled Irish Steak Sambo                       €17.00

Warm Ciabatta, Mustard Mayo, Red Onion Marmalade , Rocket, House Coleslaw, Fries, Tulfarris Tomato Chutney

Tortellonni of Garden Peas & Shallot                      €15.00

Garden Peas, Crispy Onion, Spinach, White Wine Cream , Parmesan           #1,2,3,8,12,13

DAILY SPECIAL                                                           €POA

Please ask your server

Allergens: #

1-Gluten

2-SOS & Sulphites

3-Celery

4-Sesame

5-Mustard

6-Crustaceans

7-Lupin

8-Dairy

9-Nuts

10-Soya

11-Peanuts

12-Fish

13-Eggs

14-Molluscs

Sweets

Please ask your server for our Daily Desserts

Warm Baked Scone   € 2.50

With Homemade  raspberry Jam & Fresh Cream

SIDES

All Sides                                          €4.00

-Rustic Skin On Fries with

Roasted Garlic Aioli 2,5,8,13

-Shoe String Fries 2

-Sweet Potato & Rosemary Fries 2

-House Made  Coleslaw 5,13

-Buttered Corn On The Cob 8

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TELEVISION CHANNELS

CHANNEL NO.

STATION

CHANNEL NO.

STATION

TV 1

RTE 1

TV22

EURO NEWS

TV 2

RTE 2

TV 23

CCTV NEWS

TV 3

TV 3

TV 24

CBBC

TV 4

TV5

TV6

TV7

TV8

TV9

TV10

TV11

TV12

TV13

TV14

TV15

TV16

TV17

TV18

TV19

TV20

TV21

RADIO

TV45

TV46

TV47

TV48

TG 4

3E

UTV LIVE

TULFARRIS INFO

BBC ONE NI

BBC TWO NI

ITV

CHANNEL 4

MY 5

5 STAR

USA

MORE 4 +1

ITV 2

ITV4

PICK

RTE NEWS NOW

SKY NEWS

BBCS NEWS

RTE 1 RADIO

2FM

RTE LYRIC

RAIDIO NA GAELTACHTA

TV 25

TV 26

TV 27

TV 28

TV29

TV30

TV31

TV32

TV34

TV35

TV36

TV37

TV38

TV39

TV40

TV41

TV42

TV43

TV44

TV49

TV50

TV51

TV52

TV53

RTE JUNIOR

CITV

POP

TINY POP

FILM 4

FILM 4 +1

TRUE MOVIES 1

TRUE MOVIES 2

TRAVEL +1

FOOD NETWORK

PBS AMERICA

TRUE DRAMA

TRUE CRIME +1

CHART SHOW

VAULT

VINTAGE TV

FLAVA

SCUZZ

TV5 MONDE

RTE CHILL

RTE 2XM

RTE GOLD

RTE PULSE

RADIO 1 EXTRA

THINGS TO DO

Russborough House:

Russborough House was built between 1741- 1750 by Joseph Leeson, the first Earl of Milltown. It is regarded as one of Ireland’s most beautiful houses and it also has magnificent views of the Blessington Lakes and the Wicklow mountains beyond.

Sight Seeing:

The Dublin and Wicklow Mountains are but a few minutes’ drive away for both walks and trails.

Glendalough, the 6th Century monastic city, is 20 kilometres away across the scenic Wicklow Mountains and the famous Russborough House which houses the Beit Collection is just a 3 minute drive away.

You will also find the Japanese Gardens, National Stud, Sally and Wicklow Gaps all within a short driving distance from Tulfarris Village.

Shopping:

If it’s shopping you’re after, Dublin City is only 37 kilometres down the road where you can shop till you drop! Alternatively, you can visit the local shops in Blessington Village or take a drive over to Naas town.

Punchestown Racecourse:

Punchestown Racecourse the home of Irish National Hunt Racing for more than 150 years. Hosts the Irish National Hunt Festival as well as very competitive and exciting race days. Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Club is one of the best choices available for Punchestown Hotels due to our location just 15 minutes away!

Adventures Activities:

Archery, Kayaking and bike rental are available at Tulfarris through Events, please contact the hotel to book.  Dynamic Events can also organize a range of team building activities. Ideal for corporate groups or an exhilarating experience to mark a special occasion.

Boat Hire:

A range of boats can be hired for trips of all kinds on the lakes: romantic boat trips; family days out; or fishing on Wicklow’s largest lake. Tuition is available and full safety equipment is included.

Blessington Lake Boat Tours:

Discover the history hidden beneath the water. The Blessington Lakes were created in 1940 when a dam was constructed to flood the valley where Kings River and River Liffey meet. As well as an amazing journey with spectacular views of mountain scenery, secluded bays and opportunity to see the local wildlife, the tour gives you a sense of the history, homes and original landscape that vanished over 70 years ago.

For further information and to book:

T: 087 355 2403 
E:[email protected] 
W:blessingtonlakeboathire.com

TREATMENT ROOMS AT TULFARRIS HOTEL & GOLF RESORT

Aroma Full Body Massage

Spoil yourself: enjoy the experience of a full body massage. Relax & be revitalized with our unique blend of calming and soothing Decléor oils & balms.

Treatment time: 1 hr 10 minutes:
€60.00

Aroma Specialist Massage

Feel the weight lift from your shoulders as tension and backache are treated with the kindness of touch (includes back, neck, shoulders face & scalp).

Treatment time: 45 minutes:
€40.00

Pregnancy Massage

A wonderful combination of massage techniques designed to ease backache, reduce oedema & helps to prevent stretch marks. Tailored to meet all your needs at this special time.

Treatment time: 1 hr
€60.00

For that Special Occasion

Use of Royal Effem Make-Up Products.

Make-Up:
€30.00

Private Make-Up lesson:
€45.00

Make-Up & Nail paint:
€40.00

Tanning (All Tan applications lasts up to 5 days) Tan Organic: 100% natural just like you!

Instant Self Tan: Full Body:
€30.00

Upper Body:
€20.00

Discounts available if you book 2 or more treatments. Please book all treatments in advance to avoid disappointment.

Also available Bridal Specials, Hen Party Package, Ladies Day Package, Couples Pamper Package tailored to meet your needs for your special time at Tulfarris.

A HISTORY OF THE TULFARRIS ESTATE:

Tulfarris House derives its name from the land it is situated on. Tulfarris comes from the Gaelic ‘Tulach Fherghuis’ meaning Fergus’ Hill. A section of the Leinster Genealogies mentions Fergus Mac Duniaing whose territory corresponds with the area known today as Tulfarris. The ‘tulach’ refers to a partially ruined burial mound to the left of Tulfarris House.

In March 1988, prehistoric bone fragments dating from between the stone and iron ages were found at the mound. The mound is preserved by the National Museum and will be excavated when public finances permit. Dr. Brendan O’Riordan, Director of the National Museum cautions that ‘although he expects to find much material of archaeological interest….it will not be of monetary value’.

According to ‘Memories of the Liffey Valley’, ‘Tulach Fhorasoie’ meaning Forest country , Tulfarris is found on the edge of the territory which was called coilleadh (woodland) and this may have given rise to the belief that the name Tulfarris refers to Forest Country.

The earliest written reference to Tulfarris is in 1192 in the red book of Ormond. The spelling evolved from Tylathcarthes to Toilaghferghus (1260), Tulachferghus (1280) Tillaghferous (1326) and to the present Tulfarris.

From a document known as the Faints, which contains legal judgements from the Tudor period, it is clear that the lands known as Tulfarris were included with the manor of Rathmore, Co. Kildare. This estate was in the possession of Gerald Fitzgerald (Garret Oge), 9th Earl of Kildare. Until 1534, the Fitzgerald dynasty dominated both the lands and events that occurred in much of Ireland. The rebellion of Gerald’s son Thomas, popularly known as Silken Thomas, resulted in the confiscation of the entire estate by the crown. In 1541, the crown to Walter Troot, Vicar of Rathmore, leased the manors of Rathmore, including Tulfarris.

Shortly afterwards in 1545, the lands were granted in full to Sir John Travers, a knight from Monkstown, Co. Dublin. Sir John Travers had an heir by his first marriage, Henry. Henry married Gennet Preston, daughter of the third Viscount of Gormanstown. Henry however, died young leaving two daughters, Mary & Catherine. Sir John’s second wife Cecile had a son Robert Piphoe by a previous marriage.

Gennet, Henry’s widow, married Robert Piphoe, his stepbrother, and had a second family. John Travers died in 1562 and the lands were inherited by Henry’s daughters, Mary & Catherine.

Mary married James Eustace, 3rd Viscount of Baltinglass. After James played a leading role in the Desmond Rebellion of 1579, The Baltinglass estate including Mary’s share of Rathmore, were confiscated by the crown. Mary managed to have her share of the estate returned to her in her husband’s lifetime.

Her sister Catherine married John Cheevers of Macetown, Co. Meath. Catherine’s share of the Rathmore Estate included Tulfarris and was inherited by Catherine’s son Henry. Henry in turn married Catherine Fitzwilliam and their son Walter inherited the title to Tulfarris. Inquisitions dated 24th September 1640, detail the size of the estate at the time of Henry Cheever’s death. According to this document, Tulfarris contained one ruined Castle, 20 messuages, 70 acres of land and a manor.

Tulfarris’ turbulent history continued and in a list of outlaws intended for the House of Lords and dated 1641-1647, five entries for Tulfarris were found. During that time, the crown again confiscated Tulfarris.

Tulfarris and other properties were granted to Colonel Randall Clayton on 15th October 1667, in trust for the officers of the Cromwellian soldiers of 1649. Tulfarris was subsequently granted to Captain John Hunt of the Cromwellian soldiers of 1649. His son, Vere Hunt, later sold the land to John Borrowes of Ardenode, Co. Kildare. In 1713, Robert Graydon of Russellstown held Tulfarris. The means of transfer of ownership between Borrowes and Graydon is uncertain, however, Borrowe’s niece and granddaughter both married Graydons.

Much of the house’s more recent history is associated with the Hornridge family who held the land from the early eighteenth century until the 1950’s. James Hornridge came to Ireland from Gloucseter with Cromwell’s parliamentary Army in 1659 and settled in Colemanna in Co. Carlow.

The Historical information regarding how the Hornridge’s came to own Tulfarris is unclear. His son Richard Hornridge married Hester Hogshaw of Burgage, Blessington Co. Wicklow in 1699. It is most likely that Tulfarris came into the Hornridge’s possession through this marriage.

The present Tulfarris House was built in the 18th century. Many of the country houses and most of Dublin’s finer buildings were built during this era. It is a period associated with great literary and political figures like Swift, Burke and Grattan.

The Hornridge family had firmly settled in Tulfarris by the time Richard Hornridge’s death in 1740. Richard left Tulfarris in his will to his son Richard. In 1759 Richard married Mary Wetherelt and their son, also Richard inherited the estate. Richard, a major, was active in Wicklow Yeomanry at the time of the 1798 rebellion

An 1830 ordnance Survey Field book tells us of Tulfarris:

Contains 449 acres, 38 perchs out of which 9 acres

2 rods, 13 perchs water and 12 acres, 4 perchs

Plantations of fir, ash and beech

Property of Major Richard Hornridge, there is good ornamental ground and garden, he has it in his own position.

Ownership of Tulfarris passed to Major Richard’s eldest son, Richard Joseph (1803-1859). Tulfarris and its inhabitants from that era are regularly referred to in the Irish Journals of Elizabeth Smith, 1840-1850,

The Hornridges, like the other local gentry, were frequent guests at Baltyboys and Russborough, and socialised regularly with their neighbours. This social circle included the Marquis of Downshire, owner of Blessington and one of the principal landlords in the country.

Richard Joseph was succeeded by his brother Edward (died in 1874) and then by Edward’s son, also called Richard Joseph (1863-1911). Captain Edward Stuart Hornridge (1887-1965), Richard Joseph’s son was the last of the line at Tulfarris. In the late 1950’s, he moved to Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin with his second wife, Thelma Stannus, sister of the choreographer Dame Ninnette De Valois, who celebrated her 100 birthday in 1998, and the author of the ballet photographer Gordan Anthony, all of whom were born at Baltyboy’s House.

All were great grandchildren of Elizabeth Smith whose diaries are referred to above.

It was while Edward Hornridge was resident at Tulfarris in March 1940 that the Electricity Supply Board flooded the Liffey Valley to create the lake. In her book, Come Dance with me, a memoir 1898-1956, Dame Ninnette recalls her childhood at Baltyboys and describes how much the new lake had changed the area on a return visit in 1955. On this occasion, she returned with her sister Mrs Edward Stuart Hornridge who was once again living in Wicklow.

Although the Hornridge’s no longer reside at Tulfarris, the lineage does continue through Edward Stuart Hornridge. He had a son by his first marriage to Evelyn Stuart Hornridge of Tinode, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Born in 1915 his son Richard Douglas Hornridge was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge and later at Stanford University. He served in World

War 11 as a 2nd lieutenant in the United States Navy. In 1944, he married Martha Betsy Travis of Stauton Virginia. The Hornridge family are now living in Andover, Massachusetts.

The last family to occupy Tulfarris purely as a private house were the Mullens. Dr. Karl Mullen is a famous rugby player who captained Ireland to Triple Crown success.

Tulfarris was sold in 1987 and after extensive renovation, was converted into a 4 star Hotel & Country Club.

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