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Coolcarrigan House & Gardens: A Kildare Oasis

Discover the enchanting gardens and historic elegance of Coolcarrigan House, a must-visit destination in County Kildare for nature lovers.

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Coolcarrigan House & Gardens, nestled in County Kildare, offers a serene escape with its vibrant gardens and historical charm. This picturesque estate features meticulously designed gardens, a grand country house built in the 1830s, and a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a relaxing getaway.

A brief summary to Coolcarrigan House & Gardens

Local tips

  • Visit during spring or summer to experience the gardens in full bloom and witness the vibrant floral displays.
  • Check the Coolcarrigan House & Gardens website for specific opening dates and hours, as they may vary throughout the year.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to fully enjoy exploring the extensive garden paths and arboretum.
  • Consider planning a picnic to relax and savor the peaceful ambiance of the gardens.
  • If visiting with a group or requiring assistance, contact Coolcarrigan in advance to arrange a guided tour or inquire about the availability of the motorized buggy.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate towards Naas, and then take the N7 southbound. Exit for the R445 towards Kildare and continue until the junction for the R403. Turn left onto the R403, following signs for Blackwood. After approximately 5 km, you'll find signs for Coolcarrigan House & Gardens. Parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Coolcarrigan via public transport, take a train from Dublin to Kildare town. From Kildare station, the Bus Éireann Route 126 goes towards Athy. Alight near Blackwood, from where it's about a 30-minute walk to Coolcarrigan House & Gardens. Alternatively, a taxi from Kildare station to the gardens costs approximately €20-€30.

  • Taxi

    For a direct route, a taxi or ride-sharing service from Naas or Kildare Town to Coolcarrigan House & Gardens is a convenient option. Expect to pay around €20 to €30, depending on the distance and service. Taxi fares in Ireland include an initial charge plus a distance/time-based charge.

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Discover more about Coolcarrigan House & Gardens

Coolcarrigan House & Gardens, located near Naas in County Kildare, is a hidden gem on the edge of the Bog of Allen. This enchanting 6-hectare (15 acre) garden showcases a diverse collection of rare and unusual trees and shrubs, offering a continuous display of color throughout the year. The gardens are approached by a long, tree-lined avenue, underplanted with spring bulbs, rhododendrons, and azaleas. Originally built as a shooting lodge in the 1830s by Robert Mackay Wilson, the Georgian-style house has been expanded and modernized over the years and is still occupied by the sixth generation of the same family. The gardens were significantly replanted in the 1970s with the help of Sir Harold Hillier, resulting in a unique arboretum that attracts gardening enthusiasts and dendrologists from around the world. Paths meander through the garden, revealing surprises and vistas around every corner, including two lakes with swans and ducks. Within the demesne, visitors can discover a small, yet significant, Hiberno-Romanesque Revival Church of Ireland church, consecrated in 1885. The church's design is inspired by the 12th-century Temple Finghin at Clonmacnoise and features stained glass windows and Gaelic scripts chosen by Douglas Hyde, the first President of Ireland. Coolcarrigan is known for its accessibility, offering a motorized buggy for visitors with disabilities. Group tours are welcome, and refreshments can be arranged upon request.

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