Sir Charles Coote constructed this stronghold sometime after 1616, building it just west of an earlier fortified house that belonged to Malby. The location was strategically chosen, sitting on elevated ground where the river makes a sharp southward turn about 60 metres to the east. The house proved its worth during the turbulent 1640s, successfully withstanding three separate assaults.

The main structure is a substantial rectangular building measuring approximately 30 metres north to south and 9 metres east to west, rising two storeys above a basement. Its defensive capabilities were enhanced by slightly rhomboid projecting towers at the northeast and southeast corners, each about 6 metres square and three storeys high. These towers actually incorporate elements from Malby’s earlier house. The entire complex was originally enclosed within a bawn, a defensive courtyard measuring roughly 60 metres east to west and 40 metres north to south. Though most of the bawn has vanished, archaeological excavations around 1960 revealed the foundations of its southwest tower and portions of the western wall, which was about 1.6 metres thick. A hexagonal tower at the northwest angle, though poorly constructed compared to its counterparts, still hints at the original defensive perimeter.

By around 1636, Coote had added a bridge crossing the River Suck to the east of the house, improving access to his fortified residence. The property continued to evolve through the centuries; an ice house was likely added in the late 17th or early 18th century, and the house itself was extensively remodelled during the 18th century with additions particularly on the north side. Despite all these changes and the passage of time, the house remains occupied today, a living testament to the continuity of habitation at this historic site.