A hidden gem where Sir Edwin Lutyens' formal Italianate gardens meet an 18th-century Romantic landscape of lakes, woodland and follies — all with sweeping views across seven counties, and completely free to visit.
The undisputed centrepiece: circular terraces descend to an elliptical pool where eight bronze tortoises spout water around a grand central fountain. A red-tiled loggia inscribed with Alexander Pope's words overlooks the scene, while oval windows in the surrounding wall frame picture-perfect views of the parkland beyond.
Enter through ornate wrought-iron gates and follow the alley of pleached lime trees — woven together to form a living wall. The walk opens onto a formal terrace with panoramic views over the Laois countryside, said to take in seven counties on a clear day.
Over 50 acres of woodland trails wind through the older Romantic parkland created by Frederick Trench in the 1770s. Follow signs to the ornamental lakes where you can spot moorhens and kingfishers, or find Claude's Seat — a classical gazebo with a built-in bench framing a perfect lake view.
Scattered through the estate are Trench's whimsical 18th-century follies — a Gothic ruin built partly from stones of Aghaboe Abbey, the remains of an orangery, and the Sham Castle. Start your visit at the obelisk near the Gate Lodge, which served as both a milestone and a memorial.
Guided tours of the gardens are available by prior arrangement — contact the site directly to book. Information panels and signage around the grounds also provide self-guided interpretation of the garden's history and design.
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