Borris House became the Kavanagh’s primary residence in 1570, and over that time, the present-day demesne landscape slowly evolved from a formal Baroque landscape of axial approach avenues and formal gardens to a ‘Capability Brown’ inspired demesne parkland landscape. A circular road around the perimeter leads to serpentine avenues which meander around lawns and native and spectacular tree plantations and are designed to capture the stunning view and prospects.
During your visit, explore the grounds of the estate. Stroll through the grass meadows and view the original Stew Pond and 19th century Ice House. Enjoy some of the beautiful specimen trees such as the magnificent Tulip Tree, the Fern Leaf Beeches and the queen of trees, the Cedar of Lebanon, which was planted by Lady Harriet Kavanagh in 1870 from seed from the Botanic Gardens in Dublin.
The Lace Garden, set within the walls of the original laundry illustrates the fascinating story of Borris Lace. Using the lace patterns for inspiration, the garden has a strong formal layout, predominantly made up of a white colour palette and is stuffed full of lace inspired flowers and plants, some of which are very unusual and different.
The old Mayor’s Garden is currently being revamped with new yew hedging and some new herbaceous beds. This garden is a work in progress, so please visit again and see how the story develops.
FACILITIES: Car park, toilets, guided tours of house, chapel and gardens, original Victorian laundry, short film of house and family, seasonal nature trails, restricted wheelchair access.
HOW TO FIND US: In the centre of Borris Village, in south Carlow.
OPENING TIMES: 12pm – 4pm, July 2nd-4th, 9th-11th, 16th-18th, 23rd-25th, 29th & 31st; August 1st, 6th-8th, 17th-25th, 27th-29th. Open other times throughout the year – check website for times.
HOUSE TOUR TIMES: 1pm & 2pm
ADMISSION: Fee applies, check website for further details.
