Doneraile Wildlife Park

Doneraile Wildlife Park
4.8 (1,750)
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About

A vast 166-hectare Capability Brown-style estate where herds of red, fallow and sika deer roam freely beneath 300-year-old trees — and entry to the parklands is completely free.

Things to Do

Walk the parkland trails

A network of well-maintained paths winds through 166 hectares of mature deciduous woodland, open parkland, and riverside. The 5.1 km perimeter loop takes in the best vistas; walk every trail and you'll cover about 10 km. All paths are generally accessible.

Walk the parkland trails

Spot the deer and Kerry cattle

Three deer species — red, fallow, and sika — graze the parklands alongside a herd of rare-breed Kerry cattle. They're easily seen from the main pathways, especially in the open stretches near the river.

Spot the deer and Kerry cattle

Tour Doneraile Court

This Georgian mansion, built by the St. Leger family in the 1720s, opens for guided tours from March to early November. Guides take you through centuries of family history, including the story of Elizabeth St. Leger, the world's first woman Freemason. Tours run on the hour from 10:00, last entry 16:00.

Tour Doneraile Court

Explore the formal gardens

The 18th- and 19th-century gardens around the house include pleasure grounds, parterre gardens, and walled gardens — all designed in Capability Brown's naturalistic style. Restored water features, arched stone bridges, and cascades punctuate the landscape.

Explore the formal gardens

Refuel at Sarah's Tearooms

Set in the old kitchen wing of Doneraile Court, the tearooms offer snacks, sandwiches, and something more substantial. Flagstone floors, a high ceiling, and a wood-burning stove set the scene. Indoor and courtyard seating, plus takeaway.

Refuel at Sarah's Tearooms

Let the kids loose at the playground

A children's playground sits within the estate, making this an easy day out for families. Combine it with a picnic — dedicated picnic areas are dotted around the park.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Park: daily 08:00–20:00 (spring/summer/autumn from 29 March); daily 08:00–17:00 (winter). Doneraile Court: open 7 days, 20 March–4 November, 10:00–17:00 (July & August until 18:00). Last tour entry 16:00.
  • Admission: Park: free. Court guided tour: adult €8, senior €6, student/child €4, family €20, under-12s free.
  • Parking: Free on-site car park, with overflow parking available nearby when busy.
  • Food: Sarah's Tearooms, in the old kitchen wing of Doneraile Court, open 7 days a week. Serves snacks, sandwiches, hot drinks, and light meals. Indoor courtyard seating and takeaway. Closes 17:00, last indoor orders 16:00.

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