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Johnstown Castle: Where Nature and History Merge

Johnstown Castle: Where Nature and History Merge
Johnstown CastlePatrick Browne Ireland's Content Pool

Visit this impressive castle and its gardens which feature a lake, a waterfall, and a walled garden

Johnstown Castle is a 19th-century castle located in County Wexford, Ireland. It was built in the Gothic Revival style between 1810 and 1855 for the prominent local Esmonde family, who owned the estate for several generations. The castle is a magnificent sight with its Gothic towers, magical turrets, and arched windows.

The estate’s lush ornamental gardens were designed by Daniel Robertson, who also designed Powerscourt Gardens, and feature a mix of formal and informal styles, including Italianate gardens, a rose garden, and a walled garden. The gardens offer a beautiful and tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll, with pretty pathways, tree-dotted gardens, and a shimmering lake. The walled gardens are a must-see, with unique sculptures and beautiful flower displays.

Today, the castle is open to the public and visitors can tour the castle’s opulent interior, which features many original furnishings and artwork.

The gardens are also open to visitors and offer a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll. There is a guided tour of the gardens available, which highlights some of the notable features and plants.

The Irish Agricultural Museum, located in the former castle farmyard, is another popular attraction at Johnstown Castle. Here, visitors can see recreated wheelwright workshops and check out the impeccably restored tractors, ploughs, and threshing machines. The museum showcases the history of agriculture in Ireland and the vital role it played in the country’s development.

Guided tours of the castle are available and offer visitors a chance to learn about the castle’s fascinating history and architectural details, including the unique servants’ tunnel, which measures an incredible 86 metres. Families with children will enjoy the wooded play area, where kids can let off steam and have some fun.

Overall, Johnstown Castle Estate is a beautiful and fascinating destination that showcases the rich history and natural beauty of the region. It’s the perfect place to spend a peaceful day in the countryside or learn more about Ireland’s agricultural heritage.

 

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