The brand new Twelve Points Restaurant will open at Easter in Killua Castle, County Westmeath. Located near Clonmellon, in the heart of rural Ireland and at the edge of the Boyne Valley, their ethos lies in using local produce particularly those reared or grown within the vast estate. At the moment the Twelve points team are being trained and they are hosting trial dinners. They hope to open by April with room for 26 tables. According to owner Allen Krause “We are training local people in the kitchen. Instead of hiring people from outside, we believe it is an investment into the community”.
In 2006 Allen and Lorena Krause began restoring the ruined Killua castle and its 340-acre demesne. This former home of the family of Lawrence of Arabia lay in ruins for over 60 years before being masterfully restored. With an interest in regenerative farming, they started a native rare breeds farm on the grounds five years ago. Killua Castle and its demesne are owned by the Montpascal Foundation, the family foundation of the Krause family.
The Foundation’s mission is to restore and maintain the historical heritage of the property and make it sustainable for the future. Killua Castle were recently one of the biggest winners at the prestigious Blas na hEireann Awards 2022, with 5 awards for their Venison Steaks, Signature Venison Burgers, Venison Burger with Mushroom and Smoked Cheese, Venison Sausages, and their Irish Moiled Fillet Steak. Under the watchful eye of farm manager Anthony Gilsenen, they are producing Irish moiled beef, red deer venison, Jacob sheep and wild boar on their farm.
There are opportunities to stay on the grounds, you can stay in
- Conmellon Lodge, a gothic mini castle dating from 1826, the Lodge offers two-bedroom accommodation plus an office that can be used as an additional third bedroom.
- The Gardener’s Cottage, a charming two-bedroom cottage/ The Old Church of St. John the Baptist is also available for small weddings, concerts, art exhibitions and other suitable events. Check their website here Killua Castle
