History of the Castle:
Once a grand mansion, Duckett’s Grove is now one of the most photographed ruins in the country. And its not hard to see why; its magnificent towers and turrets make for an impressive silhouette. Formally the centre of a vast estate, Duckett’s Grove was home to the Duckett family in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. In 1933, the interior of the mansion was sadly destroyed by a fire. What remains is a stunning Gothic exterior and two beautiful interconnecting walled gardens.
The courtyard area features a craft studio occupied by an artisan craft-maker Elaine Kelly of NicAngels Candles, who specialises in individual, hand-marbled, fragrance-free Irish made candles. NicAngels Candles are open on selected days during the week. Their attractive craft unit also features a selection of gift ideas from other crafters.
Playground:
There is also a playground located within the pleasure grounds of Duckett’s Grove. A great new addition to the castle grounds, this rustic and aesthetically pleasing playground has been completed taking its natural surroundings into account.
Guided Tours and Audio Tours:
Discover the home and gardens of the Duckett family, by taking a guided tour of the ruins, walled gardens and pleasure grounds. Led by Daniel McDaid, a guided tour here is a captivating and enthralling experience. Daniel’s passion and in-depth knowledge brings the history of Duckett’s Grove alive, making it an engaging adventure for visitors of all ages. His ability to convey the essence of the Duckett family legacy is truly captivating.
FREE guided tours of Duckett’s Grove are available at 12.30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. each Friday – Sunday (and to groups outside of those times by prior arrangement). Departure from the reception point in the courtyard. To book a guided tour, visit the following link; https://duckettsgrove.digitickets.co.uk/tickets
You can also pick up a free audio guide at the reception point within the courtyard to hear the stories and meet some of the characters that lived and worked here for 250 years before the disastrous fire of 1933 destroyed Duckett’s Grove. Hear from William Duckett, his wife Maria, her daughter Olive O’Grady, as well as Mr. Mitchell the steward along with Mr O’Brien, the head gardener. From all this, discover what life was like for the gentry and those they employed to work at Duckett’s Grove.
How to Find Us:
From Dublin/Waterford take exit 4 off the M9 motorway and follow the signs for Castledermot & Duckett’s Grove, R93 RF80.
Facilities:
- Toilets
- Car and Coach Park
- Restricted Wheelchair Access
- Guided Tours Friday-Sunday
Opening Times:
Summer (April-October) 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Winter (November-March) 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Free guided tours are available at 12:30pm and 2.30pm each Friday – Sunday. Check Facebook for variations in times.