About

Historic houses in Wexford carry centuries of history, and The Old Deanery is no exception. Built in 1735 and extended in 1812, it was originally known as Glebe House and served as the residence of Rev. H. Newland. In 1805, the construction was supported by a grant of £800 from the Board of First Fruits. At that time, the estate comprised 29 acres, held under a deed executed in 1778, with a yearly rent of £15.

Originally designed as a five-bay, two-storey gable-ended house over a basement, it featured a distinctive granite architrave doorcase that once faced St. Peter’s Church. During the 1812 extension, this doorway was carefully moved to the side of the house, while the original sidelights remain in place. By 1835, an additional range was added to the gable end, further enhancing the building’s character and ensuring its place among the finest historic houses in Wexford.

Inside, the elegant staircase is set within a gabled return with lean-to wings, framed by graceful round-headed windows and topped with a decorative pie-crust cornice. These features highlight the craftsmanship and architectural detail that make the Old Deanery a landmark in the story of historic houses in Wexford and beyond.

In 1969, the property passed from the Representative Body of the Church of Ireland to Col. Robert Rayburn, who lived here until his passing in 1995. A year later, in 1996, a careful and extensive refurbishment began. This labour of love sought to restore the Deanery to its former glory, preserving its original features while securing its legacy as one of the most treasured historic houses in Wexford for future generations.