Rock Close: A Mystical Garden at Blarney Castle

The Rock Close is perhaps the most extraordinary and oldest part of the Blarney Castle gardens, located on the eastern side of the castle. This mystical place is believed to have been the site of an ancient druidic settlement, shaded by a leafy canopy of ancient yew trees, creating a magical atmosphere. Most of the curious rock formations have stood for over 2,000 years, with some arrangements created by the Jefferyes family in the 1750s to complement the natural features and the castle. Within this hidden landscape, you'll discover a druidic sacrificial altar, a hermit's cell, a witch's kitchen, and other intriguing features beneath ancient yew trees, their roots clinging to the bare rock. The yew tree over the witch's kitchen is said to be more than 600 years old. Legend has it that the stones of the witch's staircase will grant your wish if you perform the necessary ritual correctly. But beware of the witch's stone, as witches possess mysterious powers. Visitors are advised not to approach the druid's altar when dusk falls. The Jefferyes family enhanced these features in the 18th century, blending them with the natural landscape to create a mysterious atmosphere. Roots twist like veins, and shadows dance beneath the leafy canopy, offering visitors a chance to partake in ancient rituals. One such tradition involves the Wishing Steps, where it is said that if you walk up and down the steps with your eyes closed, focusing on a single wish, that wish will be granted within a year by the Blarney Witch. The eerie Witch's Kitchen is believed to be where the Blarney Witch can be seen early in the morning.