Kilfane Glen

Location

Thomastown County Kilkenny

History

Dating back to the 1790s, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall in County Kilkenny is a perfect example of a romantic garden. Following the trend of the time for wilder, more natural gardens, Sir John and Lady Power created this garden on their Kilfane estate, utilising the existing features of ravines, streams and woodlands. A waterfall was added by diverting a stream along a mile-long canal to a 30-foot rock face. At the base of this cliff, a grotto adds to the romantic theme. Winding paths lead to the thatched summerhouse - a cottage orne - from where the visitor may contemplate the carefully designed "natural" garden. Walking through the garden, the eye is drawn to features such as bridges, seats, fountains - giving the impression of a series of rustic paintings. Through subsequent neglect, the garden became overgrown and introduced shrubs such as rhododendron and laurel spread unchecked, choking out the delicate woodland plants central to the romantic theme. Now the garden is listed as an Irish Heritage garden and is being restored. The upper garden is home to works of art commissioned by the Kilfane Trust and all 15 acres are open to the public from May to September.

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Admission

No admission fees

Information

Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes