Welcome
Drumbanagher is a walled demesne situated a few miles south of the scenic village of Poyntzpass in the county of Armagh, Northern Ireland. The historic seat of the Close family, the demesne extends to some 650 acres and is one of the most fertile and beautiful private areas in the Emerald Isle. Sadly, Drumbanagher Castle, the once handsome, primary residence of the demesne, built in 1837 by Lieut.- Col. Maxwell Close is now demolished. However, the large portico, which stood in front of the Italian style house, remains to the present day and gives a sense of the impressive grandeur of the demesne. Other features that remain on the site include mature parkland trees and exotics, walled garden, and an ornamental garden with pond and rockery.
In recent years Brian Byrne, Shoot Manager on the demesne, has been hosting the shooting at Drumbanagher. A former gamekeeper of over 25 years experience, Brian very ably manages all aspects of the shooting on this prettiest expanse of Irish countryside where the steep wooded valleys and tree lined pastures idyllically lend themselves to superlative driven game shooting.
Drumbanagher is rightly regarded as one of Northern Ireland's premier high pheasant and high duck shoots. The shooting offered has become much sought after by high bird aficionados throughout the island of Ireland and further afield. The birds presented will test the prowess of even the most seasoned Shots and can make or break a sporting reputation in the matter of a single drive.
Drumbanagher is also the home of Drumnascamp Cocker Spaniels. The kennels at Drumbanagher boasts a lineage selectively bred from some of the UK's most noted Field Trial and International Field Trial Champion Cockers. The kennel has available on most occasions dogs standing at stud, and cocker pups available for viewing and for sale. Details of the pedigrees of Drumnascamp Cockers as well as details of cockers for sale can be viewed via the "Useful Links" section of this website.
