Compact holding with a place in racing history

THE farm where Best Mate first saw the light of day is on the market with Coonan Auctioneers who are guiding €850,000 for the sale of Moyfern House, a modern residence on 27ac, near Trim.

Jacque van’t Hart, the current owner of Moyfern, struck the big-time when he bred Best Mate who went on to win the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 2002, 2003, and 2004.

The iconic horse collapsed and died of a suspected heart attack after being pulled up by jockey Paul Carberry at Exeter Racecourse on November 1, 2005. A statue of Best Mate stands at Cheltenham.

Horses are no longer bred at Moyfern and while the 27ac is neatly laid out with stud rail fencing, all that remains of the equestrian facilities are three stables. There is also a glasshouse and shed from a time when a nursery business operated at the farm.

Extending to 3,242 sq ft, the house was built in 1997 with accommodation that includes a sitting room/ office, a dining room with steps leading down to a lounge where double French doors lead to the garden. From the lounge a patio area is also accessed via French doors.

The kitchen is fully fitted and includes an island along with a number of interesting features including exposed timber beams. Adjacent to the kitchen is a utility space plumbed for all the appropriate equipment.

The house sits over a basement that contains an oil burner, a water tank and pump with lots of storage space.

Upstairs is the family bathroom and four bedrooms including the master bedroom with ensuite facilities and access to a balcony overlooking the gardens.

According to Barry Flood of Coonans the house is finished to a very high standard and given its location and pedigree the place would be ideal as a small equestrian operation.