A 200-acre historic estate where 17th-century pleasure gardens, St. Oliver Plunkett's family church, a medieval motte, and a fairy trail sit in the shadow of Ireland's largest complex of ancient passage graves — just one hour from Dublin.
An interactive, sensory treasure hunt for children through the gardens, open all year round. Pick up an activity booklet and map from the ticket office and follow clues past fairy houses, giant ants, and a fairy forest. There's even a 'dummy tree' where toddlers can leave their soothers for the fairies.
The Loughcrew Lightshow (November–December) transforms the gardens into an illuminated wonderland with eco-friendly installations. The Fairy Festival (July) brings unicorns, circus performers, wand-making and storytelling. Heritage Week (August) and the Loughcrew Opera also feature in the annual calendar.
Wander through centuries of landscape design across 2.5 hectares of central gardens. Follow the great yew walk (dating to 1670), stroll the lime avenue, discover the long herbaceous border, water gardens, terraces, and the dramatic Ionic portico — a salvaged folly from the burnt 1820s mansion.
The 17th-century family church of St. Oliver Plunkett — who was born on this estate — still stands among the gardens, its roof said to have been destroyed by Cromwell's forces in 1641. Nearby, climb the grass-covered medieval motte, an early defensive mound with views across the valley.
Contemporary artworks and hidden sculptures are dotted throughout the grounds, with pieces by acclaimed Irish artist Ann Meldon Hugh. Keep an eye out as you explore — artworks surprise around corners, among trees, and beside water features.
A longer circular walk around Lough Creeve takes in forest and rockery paths, passes Loughcrew House, and includes a fairy ring. The loop starts and finishes at the Limetree Coffee Shop — ideal for a post-walk refreshment.
Just above the estate, the 5,000-year-old Loughcrew passage tombs (Slieve na Calliaghe — 'Hill of the Witch') form Ireland's largest megalithic complex. Access is free; pick up the key from the Limetree Coffee Shop. On the spring and autumn equinoxes, dawn sunlight illuminates the carved chamber within Cairn T.
Load the interactive map to explore this place location.
