The Thatched Farm Project was conceived by Imen and Richard McDonnell during Covid; inspired by the wish to preserve an important part of our local architectural history, and a longing to embrace the simpler rhythm of life. The Thatch at Tyne’s Cross is a place where you can put your phone aside, pick a wild blackberry, walk the fields, breathe deeply, and just feel the quiet of the Irish countryside wrap around you.

This historic thatched farm dates back to the early 1800’s (or possibly well before), and we began the preservation from a near derelict state in 2020. Our aim was to carefully restore the cottage and outbuildings to their former glory, being mindful of the original fabric of the structures as well as paying homage to its last inhabitant, Kieran Scanlan. Along the way, many time-honoured traditional techniques were used in the process, from harvesting water reeds from the nearby River Shannon for use in re-thatching the decaying roof, to traditional lime rendering and whitewashing throughout, the refurbishment of period timber sash windows, a pair of dry stone walls built by grandfather and grandson, and more.  We also have been fortunate to work with Catherine Fitzgerald of nearby Glin Castle on the cottage garden design which is a wonderful and wild ongoing work in progress.

Staying at the Thatch at Tyne’s Cross is not only about peace and solitude. This farmhouse has always been a gathering place, and that spirit lives on. Around the long table, meals are shared, stories are told, a fire is roaring in the stone barn hearth, and laughter rises late into the night. It’s conviviality at its most natural: breaking bread together, rediscovering our humanness, and just finding joy in connection.

Whether you come seeking stillness or shared celebration—or a little of both—the Thatched Farm Project is an invitation to reset, recharge, and remember the beauty of the simple things in life.

We are located 45 minutes from Shannon Airport, 20 minutes west of Adare, County Limerick, just off the coastal N69 running along the River Shannon leading to the Wild Atlantic Way,

For more information or to talk about a stay or event at the Thatch, click on JOIN US above and send us a note.