Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum

The Woodstock gardens were developed in the Victorian Era and in recent years have been restored to their original glory by Kilkenny County Council. The gardens are home to a mix of formal and informal gardens including, a terraced garden, yew walk, rose garden and walled garden laid out with fruit trees, a vegetable garden and elegant herbaceous border. Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum were originally laid out in the Victorian period by Colonel William Tighe and his wife Lady Louisa Lennox, who gathered exotic trees and rare shrubs from around the world to introduce to the gardens. A number of the trees planted are now recognised as champion trees due to their size. Picnic spots and features such as the dovecote, summer house and conservatory were created to give added interest to the gardens. At Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum, there is the also the ruins of the imposing Woodstock House, built in 1745 but destroyed by fire in 1922. Other areas of significance include, two stunning avenues called the Monkey Puzzle Avenue and the Noble Fir Avenue. Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum is steeped in history and is a magical place to escape to throughout the seasons. Enjoy a brisk walk with the dog along the woodland trails, a family adventure in the playground, a game of hide and seek among the trees in the woods, a gentle stroll to admire the borders in the walled garden, or refreshments at the seasonal tea rooms in the Turner Conservatory. There is an entry fee per car to Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum. Payment can be made using the contactless payment facility or coins at the exit barrier in the car park.

Kilkenny