Start planning those summer walkies.

A boutique North Cork B&B, already popular with outdoorsy folk, walkers and hikers, has added even more space for guests who like to travel with a canine companion.

Barnahown, the award-winning boutique B&B near Mitchelstown in Co Cork, has expanded its guest capacity to fourteen people per night with the addition of a stylish new wing called Kildrum, offering accessible accommodation with both wheelchair-friendly and dog-friendly rooms.

The contemporary extension sits alongside the lovingly restored 1800s farmhouse, which first opened its doors to four guest rooms in July 2024. Built on the 99m² footprint of a neighbouring barn, the new space blends modern design with the character of the original property.

Kildrum features three spacious ground-floor rooms — Ballard, Lough Gur, and Bay Lough (which is also wheelchair-friendly). Each measures a generous 25m², making them almost twice the size of the cosiest room in the farmhouse.

The luxurious new guest rooms have been named by Barnahown’s owner and host, Ciara O’Brien, to celebrate some of her favourite local hot spots and honour the three counties surrounding Mitchelstown – crediting the impact that the influx of visitors from counties Cork, Limerick and Tipperary have on making her hometown such a vibrant rural market town.

Treats for god boys and girls 

Barnahown’s three new ‘doggie’ suites will also offer dedicated canine hampers including towels for the dog-friendly shower and grooming area for after long leisurely walks in nearby Glengarra Woods and maps of Mitchelstown – which has recently been designated a ‘dog-friendly destination’ with many local cafés, restaurants, and shops actively welcoming dogs.

One night bed and breakfast stays in the new ‘Ballard’, ‘Bay Lough’, and ‘Lough Gur’ guest rooms start from €175 per night for two people sharing, or €225 per night including a ‘Producer Plate’ dinner.

Images: Kirsty Lyons