Rent Michael’s Irish House?

Bishopstown House in Co Westmeath was bought in trust for Michael in 2006 by the well-known entrepreneur, Paddy Dunning. Dunning owns the nearby Grouse Lodge Studios which is popular with artists such as R.E.M, Manic Street Preachers and Snow Patrol.

Michael spent time in Ireland in 2005 after his trial and fell in love with the house which was in a dilapidated state.
The house was being renovated just before Michael’s death last year and was left in limbo.

It was while recording demos of his new album in 2006 that he decided to look for a more permanent home in Ireland before discovering Bishopstown House which is in Rosemount.

In 2008, Dunning applied on his behalf for planning permission to Westmeath County Council to refurbish the house and add a number of maisonettes. There were also plans for an indoor swimming pool.

All restoration work was stopped after Michael’s death, but Dunning decided to finish the job having got permission from the Michael’s family to do so. The renovated house has six spacious bedrooms, most of which feature four poster beds, and it can sleep thirteen. Most of the rooms are en-suite with large bathrooms on a new wooden wing all featuring outstanding views of the surrounding countryside.

Bishopstown is on offer at €1,200 per three-night weekend stay, with mid-weeks for €600.

Source: Irishtimes & MJWN