About
Lissan is an enchanting country house set at the heart of a 267 acre demense in the valley of the Lissan Water. The estate lies just 1.5 miles north of Cookstown at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains in Co Tyrone. Seat of the Staples, Baronets of Lissan And Faughanvale from 1628, the estate and it's historic collections were gifted to the community in 2006 by Hazel Dolling, the last of the Staples of Lissan. Lissan House is neither privately owned nor council funded. It is entirely managed by volunteers who form Lissan House Trust.
Our guided mini tour will bring to life the exploits of this eccentric family, with characters such as "The Barefoot Baronet", "Handsome Kitty Hawkins" and the infamous Alma Rattenbury. The family connection with the writer C.S. Lewis and friendships with notable poets, society characters and even a king provide a fascinating insight into the life of some of the Staples family. Amongst the treasures of Lissan House is a collection of paintings and sketches by the artist Sir Robert Ponsonby Staples, 12th Baronet of Lissan and Faughanvale.
Lissan House boasts a unique interior, offering a fascinating journey through the changing tastes of generations of the Staples family. The Jacobean core of the house is still tangible with later additions including the elegant Regency ballroom and amazing Arts and Crafts staircase. Not only did Lissan House and it's inhabitants play a major role in the history of this country, it was also an important centre of the local community. The yard was a hub of activity, the great barn and the turf house dating to late 17th century. The others, including the creamery, donkey house and renovated Steenson's workshop are shown on the OS map of 1833. The yard buildings are currently in a sad state of deterioration, and volunteers will be on hand to provide an update on our current renovation projects, including the turf house and clock mechanism.
The estate is open for walks and is a haven for wildlife, paths can be muddy and uneven so footwear suitable for rough terrain is recommended. Available to view is a restored 18th Century Ice House and the walled garden, now being repurposed as a community allotment space.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
