Huntington Castle, voted one of Ireland’s top 20 Hidden Gems by The Guardian is set in over 160 acres of gardens, woodland and farmland. The castle features a fascinating guided tour which explains its 17th century history. The tour also features the world famous Temple of Goddess located in the old castle dungeons. The castle offers a fabulous woodland playground, as well as a charming tearoom and gift shop. The gardens are well worth a visit in their own right and were mainly laid out in the 17th century by the Esmondes who built Huntington Castle in 1625. They include the French limes on the avenue as well as the formal lawns to the side of the house, fish ponds on either side of the centre walk and the yew tree walk. Facilities include a children’s adventure playground, coach and car park, guided castle tours, refurbished tea room, gift shop, toilets, woodland walks and rose gardens. Wheelchair access is limited to certain areas of the gardens only.
HOW TO FIND US: Entrance gates in the village of Clonegal.
OPENING TIMES: May – September 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. House tours 2, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. daily. For special events outside these times see website – e.g.: Easter, Halloween and Christmas at the Castle. Open at other times by prior arrangement.
ADMISSION: Gardens – adults €6, U12 €3. Usual concessions. House and gardens – adults €12, children €6. Family and group discounts available.
