Nature spot · County Meath

Loughcrew Historic Gardens

GardenOldcastle
Loughcrew Historic Gardens
Photo: Fáilte Ireland

Loughcrew is located near Oldcastle, County Meath, and offers 2.5 hectares of splendid gardens for visitors to explore. The property includes a medieval mote and the family church and tower house of St Oliver Plunkett.

Located near Oldcastle, County Meath, Loughcrew is a magical experience that combines history, beauty, fantasy and atmosphere to those adventurous enough to discover its secrets. Visitors can walk through centuries of garden and landscape fantasy. The central area of approximately 2.5 hectares includes a lime avenue, extensive vistas, lawns, water features and terraces. Worthy of mention are the garden's magnificent herbaceous border and the many hidden sculptures and artworks hidden throughout the grounds. The gardens also host the remnants of a medieval mote and St Oliver Plunkett's family church and tower house.

A host of enchanting features are displayed in a setting steeped in atmosphere and history. Meet Alice as she strolls through wonderland, encounter fairies and other creatures on woodland walks. Sculptures by acclaimed artist Ann Meldon Hugh and architectural treasures await around every corner. An evening visit during winter time will open up the fantastic lightscape spectacle, The Enchanted Garden, which transforms the garden through electric light and sound.

Facilities at Loughcrew include car and coach park, toilets, tearoom, book and gift shop, photographic display and education area.

There is wheelchair access in the centre and gardens.

Outdoors in County Meath this week

Best day outdoors: Sun, 11 Oct — dry by day, light winds, up to 13°C

  1. Fri, 9 Oct13° / 8°DrizzleGood day outdoors
  2. Sat, 10 Oct11° / 6°DrizzleGood day outdoors
  3. Sun, 11 Oct13° / 11°Sun with light cloudGreat day outdoors

Make a day of it

The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.