Tullynally Castle & Gardens

The beautiful parkland of Tullynally Castle & Gardens is surrounded by the hills and lakes of north County Westmeath. This haven for history buffs and nature lovers alike has been the home of the Pakenham family, later Earls of Longford, for over 370 years. The original fortified house was extended to a magnificent Gothic revival castle in the 1800’s and is now one of the largest houses in Ireland to survive in the private ownership of the same family.

Castle tours include the great hall, library, dining room and drawing room. The tour continues into the early Victorian kitchens and laundries which give fascinating insights into how life was below stairs for service staff.

The beautifully restored gardens, dating from the late 18th century, include terraced lawns, walled flower gardens, romantic woodland walks and two ornamental lakes. These have been enhanced by the current owners with pretty summerhouses and follies, each framing a different view. Many of the wealth of unusual trees and shrubs have been grown from seed collected on Himalayan plant hunting expeditions by Thomas Pakenham.

Entry to Tullynally Castle Gardens is included in the Castle tour, but garden tickets are also available separately. There is a special discovery trail for children and the Courtyard Tearooms serve freshly made lunches and teas, and includes an outdoor seating area.