€5m Belvelly renovation is a towering achievement


Born in Belfast, the Wilsons have lived and worked in the UK all of their adult lives, but always wanted a base in Ireland.

Its last occupant was Sir Peter Courthorpe, from 1624 to 1650, and by the middle of the 19th century it was being described as a ruin.

It was considered to be at the point of no return when Garry and Anne invested their savings in bringing it back to life.

The biggest challenge is to halt the rot, keep water out, and seal it from the elements.

With the help of Garry’s uncle and lead engineer, John Montgomery, and his team, the couple attempt to secure the crumbling walls and seal and heat the tower.