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Woodville House Walled Garden: A Step Back in Time

Step back in time at Woodville House Walled Garden, a beautifully restored 18th-century oasis with historical ties to Lady Augusta Gregory.

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Discover the beautifully restored 18th-century Woodville House Walled Garden near Kilchreest, Co. Galway. Explore colorful herbaceous borders, fruit trees, a rose garden, and a unique dovecote, all while learning about the area's rich history and connection to Lady Augusta Gregory.

A brief summary to Woodville House Walled Garden

Local tips

  • Check the Woodville Walled Garden website or call ahead for current opening times and special events.
  • Allow at least one hour to fully explore the garden and museum.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the garden's history and design.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on gravel paths and exploring the grounds.
  • Enjoy afternoon tea and scones for groups by prior arrangement.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The closest public transport stop to Woodville House Walled Garden is Kilchreest, which is serviced by Bus Éireann route 934. This bus operates between Loughrea and Gort. From the Kilchreest stop, the garden is approximately a 2km walk. A single fare on Bus Éireann for a short trip in rural Galway typically costs around €3-5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in nearby towns such as Loughrea and Gort. From either of these locations, a taxi to Woodville House Walled Garden would cost approximately €20-€30, depending on traffic and the specific taxi service. Pre-booking may incur an additional fee of €3. It's advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Woodville House Walled Garden

Woodville House Walled Garden, nestled at the foot of the Slieve Aughty Mountains in County Galway, offers visitors a tranquil escape into the past. This 1.5-acre garden has been lovingly restored to its 18th-century glory, showcasing vibrant herbaceous borders, espaliered fruit trees, a vegetable garden, and a serene water fountain. The garden's history is intertwined with prominent Galway families, including the D'Arcys, who resided at Woodville from 1750. Robert D'Arcy, a land agent for the Marquis of Clanricarde, was a notable figure during the Famine period. Later, Harry Persse, brother of Lady Augusta Gregory, lived at Woodville. Lady Gregory, a playwright and patron of W.B. Yeats, is known as the Mother of Celtic Revival. The connection to Lady Gregory is further explored in the adjoining museum, which displays artifacts, photos, and letters belonging to the Persse family. A unique feature of the garden is the surviving dovecote, one of the few remaining garden follies in the west of Ireland, now home to white fantail doves. Visitors can also explore the adjoining stables, which house a museum exhibiting the history of Woodville and the surrounding locality. The museum showcases old photos of the Persse family, books signed by Lady Augusta Gregory, and vintage farm machinery, offering a glimpse into life in the West of Ireland at the turn of the last century. Woodville Walled Garden hosts various events throughout the year, including celebrations of snowdrops, daffodils, and bluebells. It's a perfect destination for garden enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in the Irish countryside.

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