Lodge Park Walled Garden

Posted on November 25, 2022 by neal — No Comments ↓

Robert and Sarah Guinness

Address: Lodge Park, Straffan. Co. Kildare, W23 X8N4
Email: garden@steam-museum.ie
Website: www.steam-museum.ie

The Gardens

The 18th century walled garden resides among the mature trees of Lodge Park demesne. The garden was made to complement the needs of the house, which overlooks a fine stretch of the river Liffey. This Irish Palladian house was built on parkland, for a second son, who married into the Leeson family of Russborough House. At that time, it was part of the Henry estate, which ran to some seven thousand acres.

The old brick faced walls continue to be clothed with exotic climbers, fruit trees and roses. A magnificent south facing shrub border edged in box hedges and topiarised yew trees runs the length of the garden. Stately Beech hedges divide the different compartments of the garden, which include a white garden, peony border, south facing shrub border, working vegetable garden, herbaceous border and rose garden. The North facing border is home to a collection of shade seeking perennials and shrubs like Hydrangea, Rodgersia, Hosta, Digitalis and Veratrum and creates a quiet woodland ambiance.

Another feature of the garden is the outstanding Rosary that one encounters on entering the orchard. The flowers are in bloom and their scent is at its best during June and July, a heady experience for the senses.

Lodge Park Walled Garden is a family friendly garden for people of all ages. Kids especially love exploring its many paths and hidden garden rooms. There are also several lawn areas and seating areas for quiet reflection or just to take in the view.

The newly refurbished greenhouse displays Pelargoniums and other heat loving perennials and fruits. A colourful annual meadow sits adjacent to the recently restored greenhouse. You can visit the adjoining Steam Museum to learn about the large steam engines of the Irish industrial revolution.

The Barista Bike Cafe is situated across the courtyard. The wide menu includes a selection of specialist coffees and teas, cold and hot lunches, homemade scones, cakes and more, pre-booked groups welcome.

Situated:
Located outside the village of Straffan, Co. Kildare. It is approximately 30 minutes travel by car from Dublin airport. It is serviced by the 120 bus which stops in Straffan village.

Open: May to October – see website for details.
Groups by appointment.

Admission: