Seven acres of gardens, all set within historic castle walls, from majestic trees to flowering meadows, veg production and herbaceous displays.
The historic gardens of Lismore Castle are essentially two distinct gardens. Both are set within the castle walls and comprise of 7 acres with spectacular views of the Castle and surrounding countryside.
The lower garden was mostly created in the 19th century for the 6th Duke of Devonshire, Sir Joseph Paxton’s patron. Meandering paths lead you through this informal setting of trees and shrubs and out onto open lawns. The stately yew avenue in the heart of the garden is much older than the garden itself. From the spring flowering magnolias and rhododendrons through to the later flowering shrubs and borders there is always something in bloom.
Entry to the upper garden is through the Riding House. This walled garden was first constructed by Richard Boyle, the 1st Earl of Cork in about 1605, where most of the walls and terraces remain the same although the plantings have changed to suit the tastes of those living within the Castle. The garden is a mix of ornamental borders and productive areas, with vegetables, herbs, fruit and flowers grown for the kitchen and house.
Throughout the garden certain plants of interest are identified with numbers with corresponding information in our garden leaflet. Since 1999 several pieces of contemporary sculpture have been installed in the gardens, including works by Antony Gormley and Eilis O’Connell.
Your garden ticket will also give you access to Lismore Castle Arts, a contemporary art gallery, which displays temporary exhibitions of national and international artists.
Easter Egg Hunt
Children of all ages are invited to join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. Participants will
be provided with a map to guide them around the gardens in search of sculptures and
other landmarks. Successful adventurers who reach the end of the trail will receive a
special chocolate reward.
Please note Lismore Castle itself is a private residence and there is no public access. Lismore Castle Arts is sometimes closed for the installation of temporary exhibitions.
Due to the historic nature of the gardens and the naturally steep terrain of the ground, there are some unavoidable limitations on access for visitors who use a wheelchair or are less mobile, please call prior to your visit for further information.
