A pair of Gothic Revival follies hidden in woodland near Lismore — the extravagant gateway to a mansion that was never built. A short, free, and wonderfully atmospheric walk through an abandoned 19th-century dream.
A well-maintained gravel loop takes you through mature woodland of oak, ash, sycamore, and spruce. The trail is easy and family-friendly, taking 30–45 minutes at a relaxed pace. Benches dot the route and the path is well signposted — though it can be muddy after rain, so wear proper footwear.
The centrepiece: two ornate towers connected by a stone bridge spanning a small ravine and stream. Built in the 1830s, the pointed arches, battlements, and weathered limestone are now draped in moss and ivy. You can step inside the ruins and spot the remains of a fireplace. The bridge's underside, with its Gothic archways, is the most photographed angle.
Closest to the car park, these roofless stone lodges once housed the gatekeepers who controlled access to the estate. They were occupied until the 1970s before being abandoned. The ornate arched gate you walk through to reach them hints at the grandeur Arthur Kiely-Ussher had planned.
Just above the towers, a small waterfall cascades down toward the stream that flows under the bridge. It's most impressive after rain; in dry spells it can reduce to a trickle. The path up is short but a little steep.
Picnic tables are scattered near the towers and along the trail. Bring your own food and drink — there are no vendors on site. It's a peaceful spot to sit among the birdsong and the poplars, especially on a quiet weekday morning.
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