History of the Castle:
Duckett’s Grove, the 18th, 19th and early 20th century home of the Duckett family, was formerly at the centre of a 20,000 acre (8,093 hectares) estate that has dominated the Carlow landscape for over 300 years. Even in ruin, the surviving towers and turrets of Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens and Pleasure Grounds form a romantic profile making it one of the most photogenic historic buildings in the country and a castle in Ireland to visit.
This part Cobden designed building is structurally intact and accessible to the public. Its precincts have been the subject of at least two international film sets and the site is a continuous mecca for paranormal groups. The revival of two old walled gardens has been completed by Carlow County Council, the old paths revealed and the beds and borders reinstated. Stylistically the new planting schemes echo the past yet reflect changing fashions, utilising plants and planting patterns that may have evolved over time.
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 opposite the Lazy River Café 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.
Craft Makers:
In the courtyard of Duckett’s Grove is Nic Angels Candles, who individually handcraft marble, fragrance-free, Irish-made dinner candles creating unique patterns on each. In addition to this, they hand paint candle holders to accompany their candles. Furthermore, their attractive craft unit at Duckett’s Grove features a selection of gift ideas from other crafters. Bespoke service also available.
The Lazy River Café:
Enjoy gorgeous food in one of the outbuildings within the Duckett’s Grove courtyard. The Lazy River Café specialises in delicious and reasonably priced cuisine. Traditional baking includes home-made muffins, desserts, breakfasts, wraps and dinners served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Try some of their homemade breads, scones, tarts and cakes.
Café Opening Times: January-March, Friday to Sunday and Bank Holidays from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Open seven days per week from the 1st March onwards. Group bookings available by prior appointment.
Tel: 059-9163972
Email: thelazyrivercafe@hotmail.com
Website: www.thelazyriver.com
Facilities:
- Toilets
- Car and Coach Park
- Restricted Wheelchair Access
- Guided Tours Friday-Sunday
- Lazy River Cafe- Opening Times Above
General Opening Times: Summer (April-October) 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Winter (November-March) 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.