Did You Know?

Did you know the Stations of the Cross on show in Holycross Abbey are an exact replica of the famous versions in the Vatican? Tipperary has long held strong monastic and religious links with Christianity and this shows the connection is as solid as ever.

Woodland Cottage Garden

T: +353(0)57-9121215 W: http://www.loughderggardens.com/woodlandcottage.php
Address: Woodland Cottage, Birr, , Co. Offaly
Woodland Cottage Garden
Formerly run as “Ward’s Garden Centre”, Woodland Cottage Garden has been evolving over the past thirty years. The garden consists of three distinctive areas. To the front of the house is the main lawn, which is flanked by a large mixed herbaceous border on one side. A hidden path leads down to the new rose garden. Here you can admire the many circular shapes of the borders, reflection pond and pergola.

The semi-mature trees are under-planted with spring-flowering bulbs, Hellebores, Anemone nemerosa, Hostas and many other interesting woodland species. Cross the avenue and follow grass pathways that meander through a meadow filled with some fine specimens of both mature and semi-mature trees.  Of particular interest are some old heritage apple trees.

After viewing these areas visitors can explore the smaller gardens nearer the house.  To one side is an enclosed yard garden, filled with spring-flowering bulbs, nepeta-edged borders, and fiery red plants in the autumn.  A beautiful Acer ‘Osakazuki’ under-planted with ferns, lily-of-the-valley and hostas dominates one corner.  To the other side of the house is a thriving vegetable garden.

 Many of the plants seen in the garden are for sale.

For more information on gardens on the Lough Derg Garden Trail visit http://www.loughderggardens.com