Killruddery House & Gardens: A Historic Estate
Discover historic gardens, tour a grand house, and experience the beauty of the Irish countryside at Killruddery House & Gardens.
Killruddery House & Gardens, located south of Bray in County Wicklow, is a historic estate that has been home to the Brabazon family, the Earls of Meath, since 1618. The estate spans 800 acres and features a diverse landscape, including formal gardens, woodlands, and a working farm. The gardens, originally designed in 1682 by Monsieur Bonet, who trained under André Le Nôtre of Versailles, are among the oldest in Ireland and showcase a classic French style. Visitors can explore features such as the Long Ponds, a Sylvan Theatre, and a walled garden. The house itself, remodeled in the Tudor Revival style in the 19th century, reflects centuries of family history. Guided tours are available. Today, Killruddery House & Gardens operates as a cultural attraction, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the beauty of the Irish countryside. The estate includes a farm shop, garden center, Grain Store Restaurant, and tea room, all emphasizing locally grown produce. Killruddery hosts events throughout the year, including farm markets, workshops, and outdoor concerts.
Local tips
- Check the Killruddery website for seasonal opening hours and event schedules before your visit.
- Visit the Farm Shop and Garden Centre for fresh, locally sourced produce and unique gifts.
- Enjoy a meal at the Grain Store Restaurant or Tea Room for a 'garden-to-plate' dining experience.
- Explore the gardens at a leisurely pace to fully appreciate the historical design and natural beauty.
- Consider taking a guided house tour to learn about the Brabazon family and the history of the estate.
A brief summary to Killruddery House & Gardens
- Southern Cross Rd, Bray, Kilruddery Demesne West, Co. Wicklow, IE
- +35312863405
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bray, take the Dublin Bus route L14 from Strand Road to Southern Cross. The bus departs hourly, and the journey takes approximately 8 minutes. From the Southern Cross bus stop, it is an 8-minute walk to the entrance of Killruddery House & Gardens. The bus fare is approximately €3.
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Taxi
From Bray town center, a taxi to Killruddery House & Gardens takes about 4 minutes and costs between €8 and €10. Taxis are readily available in Bray.
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Walking
From Bray, it is approximately a 32-minute walk to Killruddery House & Gardens. The route is 2.7 km. Follow the R761 and R763 roads. Be aware that there may not be sidewalks for the entire route.
