King George IV’s infamous Slane castle carriage to be sold
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King George IV’s infamous Slane castle carriage to be sold

KING GEORGE IV’s infamous 'Slane castle' carriage is due be sold as part of a house sale by the Guinness family.

The carriage, which may have carried King George IV to and from trysts at Slane Castle with his Irish lover Elizabeth, the first Marchioness Conyngham, goes on sale next week.

It is part of a collection of over 700 lots of Guinness family heirlooms from Furness house.

The auction will take place on October 6 conducted by Fonsie Mealy auctioneers of Kilkenny.

The carriage was built in 1820 is reputed to have been used by King George for clandestine trips between Dublin and Slane.

Legend has it that the reason the road between Dublin and Slane was built so straight was to enable the King to make the trip at speed.

Although looking a bit worn, the coach still comes with a hefty price tag.

The guide price for the carriage is between €20,000 and €30,000 (£14,730 and 22,070).

Speaking to The Irish Post, auction house director George Fonsie said: "“It’s unique in the sense, it is one of, if not the only unrestored coach of its time.

"It’s structurally sound, with the makers name still visible as well as the original ivory carvings and silk interior”

"It’s interesting to imagine what may have gone on in the back seat of this incredibly luxurious coach."