'We're excited about the future': Historic Northern Ireland estate invests £400,000 to diversify with boutique store in restored piggery
Drenagh Estate has transformed a former piggery into a garden and lifestyle store as part of a long-term investment strategy to secure the future of the 17th-century estate
A historic Co Londonderry estate with roots stretching back almost 400 years has unveiled its latest investment as it continues to diversify its business and secure its long-term future.
Drenagh Estate & Gardens, near Limavady, has transformed a former piggery into a boutique garden and lifestyle store showcasing locally crafted products, regional artists and artisan producers.
The new retail space is the latest phase of a wider investment programme that has seen around £400,000 invested over the past seven years to broaden the estate's income streams and strengthen its long-term sustainability.
Dating back to 1640, Drenagh Estate has evolved into one of Northern Ireland's leading hospitality and tourism destinations, hosting around 120 weddings each year, alongside on-site accommodation, the Orangery café and its historic gardens, which now attract approximately 75,000 visitors annually.
Conolly McCausland, the 11th generation of the McCausland family and current custodian of the estate, said diversification had been key to protecting its future.
"Taking a step back to look at the potential of the estate has been transformative," he said.
"What we have today is a unique destination with both local and international appeal, from hosting 120 weddings per annum at the Manor House and our venues throughout the estate, to our on-site accommodation and the Orangery café, which now welcomes around 75,000 visitors each year.
"The new garden and lifestyle store is another step forward in bringing fresh experiences to visitors while supporting local makers, and giving visitors even more reason to explore the estate and the beautiful gardens and parklands we are situated within. It's a transformation of the use of the estate which respects its heritage while evolving to meet today's visitor expectations."
Mr McCausland also praised the support of Bank of Ireland UK, which has backed the estate's development plans.
"Throughout this process, we've been incredibly impressed by the level of care and consideration shown by Stephen and the team at Bank of Ireland," he explained.
"They took the time to really understand the business, our vision, our plans for investment, and the long-term returns we're working towards. It's been a relationship built on trust, shared ambition, and a genuine appreciation for what we're trying to achieve here.
"We're excited about the future of the estate and value the Bank's continued support as we bring the next phase of our plans to life."
Stephen Davidson, business manager at Bank of Ireland UK, said Drenagh Estate demonstrated how historic properties could successfully adapt for the future.
"We're delighted to support Conolly and the continued evolution of Drenagh Estate," he added.
"It's a fantastic example of how heritage and innovation can come together to create a thriving, sustainable business that attracts visitors from near and far.
"Being a trusted partner is something we don't take for granted, and we look forward to continuing to support Conolly as the estate embarks on its next phase of development and growth."
Looking ahead, Drenagh Estate has outlined a further five-year development plan focused on improving operational efficiency, investing in on-site power generation and enhancing environmental sustainability as it continues to build on its growing tourism and hospitality business.