Discover more at Castle Ward
Find out when Castle Ward is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.
Things to do in the garden at Castle Ward
Castle Ward’s garden, renowned for its two distinct landscapes, offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland’s rich horticultural history, with both Victorian and 17th–18th century pleasure grounds to explore. Wander through the serene winter garden, where the frosty air highlights the charm of the historic Pinetum, the delightful rockery, and the elegant Palladian Water Temple. These timeless features invite visitors to experience one of the finest examples of both architecture and garden design.
Explore the Victorian garden
Step into the formal terraced garden this winter, where the carefully restored Victorian parterre reveals its intricate designs in a frosty stillness. Over 4,000 bulbs, planted across 61 beds, await their spring awakening beneath the surface, bringing a sense of quiet anticipation to the season. While summer and autumn bring vibrant displays, winter's light casts a serene beauty across this Victorian showpiece, one of the finest historic gardens in Ireland.
Stroll around the pleasure grounds
A pinetum and Lady Anne's temple
Venture out into the 17th- and 18th-century pleasure grounds to see the historic Pinetum which was built to house exotic trees and shrubs from around the world, and see Lady Anne’s Temple which overlooks Temple Water canal.
Follow the path up to the temple with its Doric columns providing dramatic views over the landscape or take a stroll along the water’s edge.
Explore the avenue of trees
A second canal once ran at a right angle here, replanted in the 1970s with a vibrant avenue of young limes now known as the Lime Tree Walk. This picturesque path, accessible from the farmyard, meanders around the Temple Water and past Lady Anne’s Temple, offering breathtaking views of the autumn foliage and the stunning seasonal landscape.
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Visiting Castle Ward with your dog
Castle Ward is a three pawprint rated place. Discover Castle Ward with your dog. With miles of trails to explore there's plenty of space for them to bound, sniff, jump and splash.
Exploring the estate at Castle Ward
Explore miles of trails, soak up coastal views and stroll through atmospheric woodland scenes. Tune into the seasons and see where Game of Thrones was filmed.
Things to do in Castle Ward house
Wander through the Georgian rooms of this eccentric mansion, famed for its contrasting architecture and interiors, and explore the servants' world below stairs. The house is open daily except Tuesdays, from 11am to 4pm for free-flow exploration. Last entry is at 3.45pm.
History of Castle Ward
Unique and unusual, this eccentric 18th-century house is famed for having been built with two completely different architectural styles, both inside and out. Find out why.
Eating and shopping at Castle Ward
Tuck into a delightful menu and treat yourself or someone special in the shops. Watch artists in action or pick up a Game of Thrones memento.
Gardening tips
Discover our gardeners’ top tips so you can make the most of your garden, plot or window box.
Gardens and parks in Northern Ireland
The National Trust look after the greatest collection of historic gardens and garden plants under single ownership in Europe, if not the world. With Rose Gardens, Walled Gardens and Kitchen Gardens, discover some of the best historic gardens in Northern Ireland. Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry while Castle Ward is home to one of the best examples of a Victorian garden in Ireland.
