Kilkenny Gardens

Kilfane Glen and Waterfall

Kilfane Glen and Waterfall Kilkenny is a pristine example of a romantic era garden dating from the 1790s. Untouched for 200 years, it is a picturesque paradise with a waterfall tumbling its way to a rushing stream and woodland paths leading to a cottage orné. Tiny bridges sit among ancient trees, wild fox-gloves, ferns and other historically correct 18th century planting.

Shankill Castle & Gardens

Shankill Castle & Gardens started as a Bulter tower-house near the ruins of an old church. In 1708 it was rebuilt and set in a formal landscape. In the garden there are remnants of 18th century lime alles, 19th century laurel lawns, some Victorian favourites such as the now gigantic Sequoias and 20th century, self-sown ash trees. The moated garden, once a rose garden then forgotten and planted with Sitka spruces is now a spring garden, and the graveyard blooms all year round. The walled garden has a charming apple arch under-planted with red tulips; and some antique goblet-shaped pear trees trained against a mellow brick wall. Since 1991 Shankill Castle is home and studio to the artist Elizabeth Cope, whose paintings are on display.

Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum

Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum are located in the picturesque village of Inistioge on the banks of the River Nore. The gardens were once regarded as one of the great gardens of Ireland and with this in mind, Kilkenny County Council has embarked on an ambitious scheme of restoration.