Our Story
Ballymagarvey Village, located in County Meath, Ireland, has a rich and storied history spanning over 800 years and is an integral part of local and Irish history.
Beginnings
Gwenllian de Lacy was the last true princess of Wales. As part of an alliance between her father, Llewelyn ap Lorwerth, and Hugh de Lacy, a prominent Norman-Irish Lord, she married Hugh’s brother William, and so began the connection between Gwenllian and Ballymagarvey. Times where more turbulent then, and Gwenllian lived through rebellions, was taken prisoner, became a landlord and businesswoman after her husband’s death, and lived out the last of her days at Ballymagarvey. The medieval structures that are the Tower and the church date back from Gwenllian’s time. The Tower, with its ‘murder hole’ leading to tunnels would have provided escape for the family in times of attack. Ballymagarvey church is a stunning example of Anglo Norman stonemasonry with its amazing Rose Window and chancel Arch.
This is a magical room dating back centuries, with its old exposed beams and original cast windows. In the background you hear the water cascade across the waterfall turning the Mill wheel below; this is a truly perfect setting to say “I do”. With a capacity for up to 170 guests, ceremonies take place from 3pm and can be performed every day of the week.
The Mill
Originally part of the Boyne Valley, the estate dates to medieval times, with its earliest records showing that Ballymagarvey served as a thriving flax mill village in the 18th and 19th centuries. The property played a significant role in Ireland’s agricultural and industrial past, with flax production being a major industry during this time.
Today, our gorgeous Mill Loft is the perfect setting for indoor wedding ceremonies and the Mill pond provides a beautiful backdrop for our couple’s wedding photographs.
The Land
Ballymagarvey has always operated as a working farm until relatively recently. In times past, farm workers lived as tenants in Ballymagarvey Village, working the land in return for protection, and profits from their labour. Our beautiful, peaceful Courtyard would once have been a hive of farmyard activity, with animals, carts, and the sights and sounds of Irish country living. Today, the Courtyard cottages overlook this gorgeous central space – a wonderful place for guests to mingle between the celebrations.
Families
Ballymagarvey has seen many families come and go through the years since the de Lacys occupied it more than 800 years ago. Past owners and their tenants lived, worked, worshipped and played – all within the grounds of Ballymagarvey, with its Manor House, Schoolhouse, Church, and later, The Mill. Today, the Schoolhouse and Courtyard cottages serve as luxury accommodation for guests.
Today
Ballymagarvey is a labour of love for owner, Vincent Callan and his amazing team. The estate needed much renovation and love when this amazing project began in 2003. With the dedication, ingenuity and outstanding craftsmanship of a local and European workforce, tonnes of handmade building materials, through highs and lows and personal tragedies, this ancient estate has been brought back to life in a sustainable way and is now proudly one of Ireland’s leading wedding destinations.
The history, vision, love and dedication of the Ballymagarvey family is obvious the moment you step into our world. Let us welcome you into our home where you, your family and friends will enjoy the warm Irish hospitality, peace and tranquility of this unique heritage village.
weddings gallery
