The English painter Derrick Hill famously purchased Glebe House in 1953, to allow himself easy access to Tory Island which held an almost talismanic spell over him. Today the historic house is richly decorated and run as a tribute to Hill’s work and to his wide-ranging art collection.
You will find temporary or visiting exhibitions in the converted stables, whilst the main building itself houses a collection of paintings, sketches and fascinating, exotic items that Hill had eclectically collected. Amongst the lesser known treasures are works by Kokoschka, Yeats, Renoir and Picasso.
But it’s not just the works of art that should hold your interest: take a look at the wallpaper in the study and you’ll notice it has been created by William Morris and the morning room is bedecked in Chinese tapestries. All this finery stands in stark contrast to the primitive visions of the Tory Island group of painters that command the kitchen.
Glebe House is open most days May to September, but do check its opening times before making the drive out here. Or you may have to just enjoy the views.
