Ardcarne lodge is a cosy and homely converted coach house right next to the owners house. We didn't get to meet Brian. But his parents Jim and Bernie are very special people, full of Irish hospitality and warmth. They are great to chat to, they have plenty of stories about the local area and have loads of suggestions about things to do. Jim is an avid collector and the house is filled with his historic bric a brac and furniture. If you are a John McGahern fan, ask them about the author's connection to the main house and Bernie's family. They more than go the extra mile - literally in our case. We left behind some reading glasses and knowing we were travelling via the Cootehall barracks where John McGahern lived, Jim hopped in his car to give them to us. A very considerate act.
The house while historic has all modern conveniences and has been sympathetically converted. Some might find it a little dark but with mullioned windows that goes with the territory. The house and surrounds was fine for our eight year old daughter (and her granny) but it might be a little bit more of a challenge with toddlers as the garden is up a level and you would need to supervise them.
It is close to the main road equidistant between Carrick on Shannon and Boyle. Lough Key is 5 minutes away. There is loads to do in the area. Leitrim is still an unspoilt part of the country despite the odd bit of Celtic tiger development. I would recommend the Lough Key boat tour - the guides are great craic, Zipit tree ropes for kids and Strokestown House for the garden and house tour -a glimpse of ascendancy Ireland. The windmill in Elphin is also fun - another great guide. The scenery has a quiet charm. But most of all, what makes Leitrim lovely is the people, their friendliness, humour and courtesy - like Bernie and Jim!