Barmeath is a flamboyant castle set in over 10 acres of historic gardens over looking Dundalk Bay. One can explore the many paths around a large ornamental lake, a recently restored walled garden, archery ground, wild garden and woodland.
Home to the Bellew family since the 1670s, the main design of the garden is by Thomas Wright who came to Ireland in 1745. The gardens were abandoned between 1920 and 1938, but were brought back to life by Jeanie Bellew, the present incumbent’s grandmother. These improvements continue with Rosemary and Bryan Bellew. The pleasure gardens are full of mature trees and a wonderful selection of rhododendron and azalea.
Within the enchanting walled garden, there is an extensive variety of roses, fruit trees, a summer house, herbaceous border and the vegetable plot. The main garden has an 18th century archery ground surrounded by Irish Yew. The more adventurous visitor can enjoy the shady deciduous woodland beyond the garden.
Best Specimens: Drimys and Honey Eyed Rhododendron.
Best months to visit May-June, Azaleas and Rhododendrons in flower.
Best tree specimens: Monterey pines, woodland walks with mature Cedars.
Children must be supervised.
No dogs.
Opening times:
May 1 – 31, June 1 – 9, 9am – 1pm
Open in Heritage Week
Groups by appointment
Fee: €5 Adults. Free for children.
No dogs.
Please see website www.barmeath-castle.com for events and more details.
GPS 53.823152, -6.337824
