Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre

Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre Travel Guide

Located in the heart of Kilrush, County Clare, the Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. This enchanting walled garden, nestled within 170 hectares of native woodlands, offers a unique blend of botanical beauty and historical significance. Whether you’re looking to relax in a serene environment or delve into the rich history of the area, Vandeleur Walled Garden is an experience you won’t want to miss.

History

The Vandeleur Walled Garden was once the private garden of Kilrush House, the ancestral home of the Vandeleur family in the early 19th century. The garden has been meticulously restored to its former glory, showcasing a medley of trees, flowers, and plants that thrive in the area’s unique western latitude microclimate. The garden’s history is intertwined with the Vandeleur family’s legacy, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

How to Get There

– By Car: The garden is conveniently located approximately 1km from Kilrush Town on the N67 (Killimer Road). It is also easily accessible from nearby towns and cities.
– By Public Transport: TFI Local Link’s 337 bus route serves the Vandeleur Walled Garden bus stop multiple times daily on its way to Kilrush and from Ennis via Kildysart.

Attractions

1. Walled Garden:
– Explore the beautifully restored walled garden, featuring a horizontal maze, unusual water-features, giant garden chess, and an accessible Victorian-style working glasshouse.
– Discover a variety of unusual and tender plants that thrive in the area’s unique microclimate.

2. Woodland Trail:
– Enjoy walks through the native woodlands surrounding the garden, offering a tranquil and peaceful experience.

3. Woodland Bistro:
– Treat yourself to a delicious meal at the Woodland Bistro, which serves hearty breakfasts, light lunches, and refreshing beverages.
– The menu includes homemade goods and is crafted with care and precision using only the finest ingredients available.

4. Gift Shop:
– Browse the gift shop for handcrafted jewellery, spectacular local scenic prints, decorative garden accessories, and more.
– The shop also offers a beautiful range of shrubs, plants, bushes, trees, flowers, and herbs for sale.

5. Garden Centre:
– Visit the garden centre to find unique plants and gardening supplies, many of which are grown in the Vandeleur Walled Garden.

6. Interpretive Centre:
– Learn about the Vandeleur family’s history and their contribution to Kilrush through exhibits in the interpretive centre.

7. Coillte Outdoors Forest Recreation Area:
– Just across from the entrance to the Vandeleur Walled Garden is the Coillte Outdoors Forest Recreation Area, which offers opportunities for walking, running, and other outdoor activities.

Ticket Information

– Admission Prices:
– Adult (over 18): €7.00
– Child (over 5): €5.00
– Children under 5 years old enter for free.

– Guided Tours:
– Guided tours are available at 11am and 3pm daily.
– Self-guided tours are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace.

– Local Access Pass:
– A local pass provides free entry to Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre for 12 months from the first use.
– One-Person Pass: €20.00
– Two-Persons Pass: €35.00
– Family Pass (2 adults, up to 4 children): €50.00.

Tips for Visiting

1. Best Time to Visit:
– The garden is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during spring and summer when the plants are in full bloom.

2. Accessibility:
– The garden is partially wheelchair accessible with wide gravel paths and accessible restrooms.

3. Parking:
– There is extensive parking available for coaches and cars.

4. Dining:
– The Woodland Bistro offers a variety of dining options, including breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea.

5. Picnic Facilities:
– There are picnic facilities located at various points around the woodland, making it an ideal spot for a family outing.

6. Events:
– Each Saturday, Parkrun holds a free 5km run in the Coillte Outdoors Forest Recreation Area, which is open to all visitors.

7. Gift Shopping:
– The gift shop offers a range of unique items, including handcrafted jewellery and local scenic prints, making it a great place to find souvenirs.

8. Photography:
– The garden is a photographer’s paradise, with its beautiful plants, water features, and historic architecture providing ample opportunities for capturing stunning images.

9. Family-Friendly:
– The garden is ideally suited for families with children aged 2 to 12, offering a butterfly search activity and other interactive experiences.

10. Rainy Days:
– While the garden is mostly outdoor, there are indoor facilities such as the interpretive centre and coffee shop where you can take shelter on rainy days.

By following these tips and enjoying the various attractions, you can make the most of your visit to the Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, this destination has something for everyone.