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Cairbre House, Dungarvan

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Located on the shores of the Colligan River estuary and set in the colourful harbour town of Dungarvan, nestled within beautiful County Waterford in Ireland, is Cairbre House. This listed building is steeped in history, dating back to 1819, it enjoys a traditional feel inside, perfect for large groups of friends and families looking to explore all the treasures of the surrounding area. For at least the past 100 years this house, formally once part of the Duke of Devonshire's Waterford Estate, played host to an award-winning bed and breakfast. It now retains much of its character and charm, from the pretty climbers cascading up the exterior, to the sash windows and country-style décor. The cottage opens up into a hallway and through to the reception room with a luxurious chaise-longue.

About Cairbre House

Located on the shores of the Colligan River estuary and set in the colourful harbour town of Dungarvan, nestled within beautiful County Waterford in Ireland, is Cairbre House. This listed building is steeped in history, dating back to 1819, it enjoys a traditional feel inside, perfect for large groups of friends and families looking to explore all the treasures of the surrounding area. For at least the past 100 years this house, formally once part of the Duke of Devonshire's Waterford Estate, played host to an award-winning bed and breakfast. It now retains much of its character and charm, from the pretty climbers cascading up the exterior, to the sash windows and country-style décor. The cottage opens up into a hallway and through to the reception room with a luxurious chaise-longue. A fully equipped kitchen is accompanied by a large dining room and utility with washing facilities, whilst the sitting room boasts a cosy open fire set within a beautiful mantelpiece. Each of the bedrooms boast a traditional style, with en-suite shower facilities to refresh you each morning, with the first floor bedrooms, kitchen and dining room overlooking the stunning one acre waterfront setting and river estuary. There is also a wooden-clad bathroom serving the first floor bedrooms, with an additional W.C and shower conveniently located at ground floor level. Outside, the mature gardens contain many rare and unusual plants including a rose garden which compliment the manicured lawns extending across the front and rear of the house. A secret enclosed garden enjoys hours of fun for hide-and-seekers, with a lovely barbecue area benefitting picturesque, estuary views backed by the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains. This town is a real haven for anglers, surfers, cyclists and walking enthusiasts, with many attractions beckoning visitors of all ages. There are plenty of long, sandy beaches, shops, restaurants and pubs, as well as a thriving nightlife. The Waterford Greenway is a major attraction, this is a 26 mile long spectacular off-road cycle /walking trail on the site of a disused railway line stretching all the way from Dungarvan to Waterford City, passing through scenic countryside, crossing 3 high viaducts, a long atmospheric tunnel and 11 bridges, Opened in 2017, the Waterford Greenway starts a short 5 mins walk from Cairbre House (for visitors who have not got their own bikes there are numerous bike hire shops in town). Dungarvan Bay and the Colligan River Estuary are designated as Special Areas of Conservation, hosting a wide range of sea and shore birds, seals and otter are frequently seen from the house and gardens. Cork City sits just inland on Ireland's Southwest coast, only 1 hours drive away, it is connected to the sea by Cork harbour, this is a beautiful city steeped in history with its center sitting on its own island on the River Lee. Kilkenny City, also 1 hours drive away is a medieval city with its castle dating back to 1195 built by Norman Occupiers, The town has deep religious roots and many well-preserved churches and monasteries, including imposing St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey Dominican priory, both from the 13th century. It's also a crafts hub, with shops along its winding lanes selling pottery, paintings and jewellery. Adventure in the south eastern sector of Ireland’s Ancient East.
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Need To Know

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Local Insights: Cairbre House

Unique information you won't find on booking sites

Dungarvan, Devon

Weather & Local Conditions

16°C

Overcast

Updated: 28 Aug 2026, 3:23am

🌡️
16.10°C
Temperature
💨
7 km/h
Wind Speed
💧
96%
Humidity
🧳
Packing Tip: UK weather can turn quickly, so pack layers whatever the forecast. A waterproof and sturdy shoes mean the whole group can head out whatever August throws at you.

What to Expect Through the Year

  • May - September: Warmest, longest days - ideal for big group days out, gardens and BBQs
  • October - November: Crisp autumn colour, cosy evenings by the fire, quieter attractions
  • December - February: Perfect for a snug winter escape - great for Christmas and New Year gatherings
  • March - April: Spring blooms, longer evenings returning, wildlife becoming active
🌧️
Rainy Day Tip: A large cottage comes into its own on wet days - board games, a long lunch and a film with the whole group beat a cramped hotel any day. Check the tabs here for nearby pubs and attractions with indoor options.

Dark Skies & Stargazing

Cairbre House sits in a location with genuinely dark skies - a real treat for a group, and something you rarely get at home in town.

Bortle Scale Rating

The Bortle scale measures night sky darkness from 1 (darkest) to 9 (brightest urban):

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
🌌
Class 4 - Rural/suburban transition
This location's dark sky rating

What You Can See From the Cottage

The Milky Way is visible overhead, though light domes may be visible on the horizon towards larger towns.

The Milky Way is visible on clear, moonless nights.

Best Stargazing Conditions

  • New Moon periods: Darkest skies, best Milky Way visibility
  • Winter months: Earlier darkness, crisper skies, Orion constellation prominent
  • After 11pm: Neighbouring lights typically switched off
  • Allow 20 minutes: Let your eyes adjust to darkness before looking up
📱
Pro Tip: Download a stargazing app like "Sky Map" or "Star Walk" before arrival. Mobile signal can be limited, and these apps work offline - a fun activity to share with the whole group.

Location & Elevation

2m

(7 feet above sea level)

Cairbre House sits in a peaceful Devon setting - space to spread out and the perfect base for a group getaway.

🏔️
2m
Elevation
📍
Dungarvan
Nearest Village
🌲
Rural
Setting

What the Elevation Means for Your Stay

  • Fresher air: Expect it a touch cooler than coastal areas - bracing walks and restful sleep
  • Clearer air: Less pollution and haze, better views and stargazing
  • Morning mists: Valley fog sometimes forms below, creating magical sunrise views
  • Walking access: Higher starting point means shorter climbs to hilltops and summits
🚗
Driving Note: The roads to Dungarvan are typical Devon lanes - narrow in places with passing spots. If the group is arriving in several cars, share the postcode and a meeting point in advance.

Coordinates

Latitude: 52.0961729° N | Longitude: 7.6183318° W

Sunrise & Sunset Times

Today's sun times for Dungarvan (Friday, 28 August 2026):

5:34am

Sunrise

6:29pm

Golden Hour

7:29pm

Sunset

🌅
5:34am
Sunrise
🌇
7:29pm
Sunset
📸
6:29pm
Golden Hour

Planning Your Days by Season

  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Sunset around 9:30-10pm - long days for group walks, days out and late alfresco dinners
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Sunset 5-7pm - perfect timing for an after-dinner drink as the stars come out
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Sunset around 4pm - cosy early evenings by the fire, ideal for stargazing
  • Spring (Mar-May): Sunset 6-9pm - watch the evenings grow longer each day
🌙
Golden Hour: For the best light, plan your group photo or evening walk around golden hour (6:29pm). The warm colours make for lovely holiday photos before you head back in for dinner.

August Daylight

This month in Dungarvan, you have approximately 13.92 hours of daylight. The long summer days mean plenty of time for group adventures before a relaxed evening back at the cottage.

Practical Essentials

Everything the group needs to know before you arrive at Cairbre House.

Mobile Phone Signal

📱

Signal Strength

Good

Mobile signal is generally good in this area across most networks.

💡
Signal Tip: All major networks should work well here.

Nearest Essentials

🚗
Arrival Tip: Fill up with fuel before you arrive - petrol stations can be sparse in rural Devon. With a larger group it's worth doing one big supermarket shop on the way, especially if arriving late.

Family & Fun


Local Breweries & Craft Beer

Discover local craft beer near Cairbre House:

🍺

Dungarvan Brewing

Micro · Dungarvan

0.6 mi
🍺

Munster Brewery

Micro · Youghal

14.6 mi
🍺

Metalman Brewing Company

Micro · Waterford

23.5 mi
🍻
Beer Lover's Tip: Many Devon pubs serve locally brewed ales. Ask for local ales - perfect after a day exploring with the group!

Data updated: 28 Aug 2026 | Location: 52.0961729, -7.6183318

Information unique to this location - not available on booking sites

What Guests Love

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Getting To Cairbre House

Find your way to your perfect countryside retreat

Group Attractions & More Nearby

Stuff for larger groups and families to try!

Is Cairbre House Right For Your Group

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Dining & Cafes

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to our most common questions about Cairbre House

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