Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum

Kilkenny

The beauty spots of Mount Brandon, Inistioge village and the wooded Nore valley enclose Woodstock, where the once celebrated gardens have recently been restored.

Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum are located just outside the village of Inistioge on the banks of the River Nore in County Kilkenny. Woodstock gardens were once considered one of the great gardens of Ireland and attracted many visitors.

The gardens are now undergoing restoration by Kilkenny County Council and new restored features include the Turner Conservatory, the Walled Garden, the Flower Terraces, the Rose Gardens, the Monkey Puzzle Walk, the Noble Fir Walk and the Arboretum.

The design and concept of the existing gardens and parklands at Woodstock can be attributed to Colonel William Tighe and his wife Lady Louisa Lennox with works carried out during the Victorian Period from 1840-1900. Many of the exotic trees and shrubs in the garden and arboretum are rare and were newly discovered when they were originally introduced to the Gardens. Other features in the garden include the Dovecote, Grotto, Fountain and Summer House.

Also at Woodstock are the ruins of Woodstock House, built in 1745. Unfortunately it was destroyed by fire in 1922 and has since become unstable. Works are now underway to stabilize the building and prevent further deterioration of the structure. On your return from the gardens, stop at Mount Sandford Castle for a wonderful view of the valley of the River Nore overlooking Inistioge and its ten arch bridge.

Inistioge,
Co. Kilkenny.

From Kilkenny, take first right in Inistioge and enter through main gateway.

All year round during daylight hours.

€4.00 per car (including access to gardens ).
Season tickets available for unlimited number of visits all year round: €35.00 per annum.

Large groups and buses by appointment only. Price available on request.

Car Parking, Children's Playground, Toilets, Limited Wheelchair Access, Mobility buggy available.
Refreshments available at Tea Room (Seasonal - please phone to check opening times).
Guided Tours by appointment.

Kilkenny County Council (056 7794000), Claire Murphy (087 8580502) or John Delaney (087 8549785)

Tel/Fax: +353 56 779 4000,
+353 (0) 87 854 9785