Richest Irish billionaire's Laois mansion announces open day
Stripe co-founder's lavish estate will again open to the public this summer
A Laois mansion that is home to the richest Irish billionaire has announced it will again open to the public for a day this summer.
Since he bought Abbey Leix demesne in 2021 John Collison, co-founder of tech company Stripe with his Limerick brother Patrick, has been carrying out a raft of restorations to the estate.
However he has carried on the tradition of a summer open day for charity by previous owners, adding his own pilot's touch with an extravagant and breathtaking airshow, and adding on a Christmas open day too, see photos here.
The Abbeyleix House and Farm as it is now called has announced the day this summer when the gates will once again open, and the planes are returning for their loop the loops.
Open day at Abbeyleix House and Farm. Photo: Alf Harvey
"Mark Your Calendars. Our much-loved Annual Family Day returns on Sunday, June 29.
"Expect a fantastic day filled with craft and food stalls, entertainment for all ages, and the highlight of the event—a spectacular air show.
"Calling all craft vendors! If you’re interested in taking part, please reach out to Alice at [email protected] to secure your spot. Tickets will be available soon—stay tuned for updates.
"All proceeds from the event will go to charity, making this a day of fun for a great cause. Don’t miss out on another unforgettable Family Day at Abbeyleix House & Farm," they say.
The Collison brothers aged 33 and 35 are Ireland's richest billionaires, worth over €10 billion each.
John Collison has also bought and is restoring Millbrook Manor on the edge of Abbeyleix House, engaging Michelin star winning chef Cuán Greene to oversee the opening of a top quality restaurant there. Read that story here.