The Grainstore @ Ballymaloe
Shanagarry, Ireland
Rory, son of Myrtle Allen, is first and foremost a farmer but always had a passion for music. As his son, Darren, took more responsibility for the farm Rory had more time to give to music. He started organising music weeks in Ballymaloe where he would invite musicians to play to guests in the drawing room. This lead to the dream of building a venue suitable for music concerts but being right next door to Ballymaloe Guest House and Restaurant it also made sense to have a building suitable for weddings, corporate events and parties.
Being very careful to maintain the character of the original 17th century farm yard building, Rory carefully worked with architect, Jilly Ferrera, to convert The Grain Store, used for the storage of wheat, tractors and other farm machinery, into the multi purpose venue it is today. Since its completion in 2010, it has been attracting all sorts of events, from weddings to comedian Tommy Tiernan to Christmas Craft Fairs with 3000 visitors attending to high profile Gala Dinners with President Bill Clinton as guest of honour.
It has been a great addition to Ballymaloe and we look forward to hosting many more events in the future.