The current Jacobean Revival mansion, built between 1837 and 1843, represents just the latest chapter in a complex architectural story that stretches back to medieval times. Archaeological records suggest that a stone castle existed here as early as 1562, though by then it was already described as ruined. When Nicholas Harbert leased the former monastery lands in 1567, he constructed two “warlike castles” to defend against Irish attacks, though their exact locations within Durrow Demesne remain a mystery.

The Stepney family, who acquired the property through marriage to Philip Rawson, a descendant of Sir Edward Herbert, built an 18th century house that they called Durrow Castle, likely on the site of the earlier medieval fortification. Around 1780, they demolished extensive castle ruins that stood just north of the moat, recycling the stone to construct their new mansion. When Lord Norbury purchased the estate from the Stepneys at the turn of the 19th century, he substantially expanded the house, which prompted its renaming to Durrow Abbey House. However, disaster struck when fire destroyed much of Norbury’s mansion, leaving only a single wall standing where it connected to his additions.

Today’s L-plan house, with its distinctive breakfront tower and multiple bays, rose from these ashes in the early Victorian period. Built over a basement level and incorporating courtyard buildings to the rear, it represents the final transformation of a site that has hosted everything from medieval castles to Georgian mansions. The property holds protected status as National Monument No. 313, ensuring that this remarkable succession of buildings, each one literally built from the stones of its predecessor, remains part of Ireland’s architectural heritage.