Geograph - photograph every grid square

Country house just outside Ballywalter, it was constructed 1846-52 by Sir Charles Lanyon for the Mulholland family, the descendants of whom remain in ownership today.
Surrounded by a large estate, the house saw action as a military hospital during WW1 and various military units were stationed in the outbuildings and stables during WW2.
Almost abandoned and demolished in the 1950s, the house was saved by Sir John Betjeman who, on a visit to Henry, 4th Baron Dunleath, and his wife Dorinda, managed to convince them to save the house. It has now undergone extensive renovations.
Still in private ownership today, the house and grounds are usually only open to the general public during the European Heritage Open Days in September each year. A game fair, usually held on the estate each May, also offers a chance to visit but a fee is charged.