A gorgeous river-side path from behind the town car park meanders 2km south to Cahir Park and this thatched cottage, surrounded by roses, lavender and honeysuckle. A lavish example of Regency Picturesque, the cottage is more of a sizeable house. Built in 1810 as a retreat for Richard Butler, 12th Baron Caher, and his wife, it was designed by London architect John Nash, creator of the Royal Pavilion at Brighton and London's Regent's Park. The 30-minute (compulsory) guided tours are thoroughly enjoyable.
The cottage-orné style emerged during the late 18th and early 19th centuries in England in response to the prevailing taste for the picturesque. Thatched roofs, natural wood and carved weatherboarding were characteristics and most examples were built as ornamental features on estates. There's angling on the river from March to September; permits are available from heritage newsagents in Cahir.
