Russborough houses one of the most impressive Private Art Collections in Ireland which may be viewed by taking a guided house tour. The exhibition centre tells the story of Russborough from 1741 to the present day. This Palladian mansion was designed by Richard Cassels in 1741 and has the longest facade of any house in Ireland. It stretches to 700 feet across the beautiful Wicklow landscape overlooking the Blessington lakes.
The 200 Acres of Parklands are equally pleasing with a 20,000 sq ft maze, a fairy trail, a playground and walks. The 18th century walled garden has been under restoration since 2011 and guided tours can be arranged for pre-booked groups and open most days from April to October for families and individuals.
The East & West Courtyards house working artisans. A new Bird of Prey Centre is located alongside the West Courtyard.
To complement these attractions there are lovely tea rooms serving hot and cold beverages, snacks and light lunches as well as a delightful souvenir and craft shop.
You can explore Russborough’s beautiful demense on foot with one of their walking routes. Choose from the 2km wildlife trail, which passes through our wildlife habitat, the 2km woodland and rhododendron trail, or combine them for a longer, more satisfying walk. There are information boards along both routes full of interesting facts about Russborough and its flora and fauna. These easy walking routes take in breathtaking scenery, secluded spots, and the best views of the stunning Palladian mansion.
Whilst you’re out and about, keep an eye out for some of the wonderful wildlife that call Russborough home. You may come across swans, foxes, badgers, hares and rabbits as you explore. Dogs are welcome at Russborough, where they will always find a bowl of water in the courtyard, but must be kept on lead.
The 2,000 metre beech hedge maze is a fascinating feature at Russborough. A statue of Cupid stands proudly on a column at the centre of the maze to help you find your way. Very popular with children, the maze is open every day of the week March-December.
Voted one of the top playgrounds in the country by the Irish Times, children aged 2-12 will find lots of adventure in our play area with its mix of fun and challenging equipment including wooden framed swings, a sandpit, slides and spider web climbing frame. There’s plenty of seating in the picnic area for the grown-ups to relax and the café and toilets are just a stone’s throw away.
Lady’s Island at Russborough is an enchanted land that is home to a growing number of magical fairy folk. Some of the fairies have lived in their beautifully quaint homes for more than 270 years.!
There is 2km parkland walking trail to the front and back of the house, taking in the beautiful scenery and historic features. While enjoying Russborough’s exceptional architecture and demesne you will be brought to fifteen locations where where you can read about fascinating stories of the people & events that helped shape the house and estate since the mid-18th century. There is also a shorter children’s walking tour.
Russborough has launched a new tree trail, suitable for families & school groups, giving details of ten wonderful trees including ancient beech, horse chestnut, Douglas-fir & yew. You can explore ancient trees, dating as far back as the first phase of planting in the 1740s.
Russborough’s 18th century walled garden is currently being restored by volunteers from the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland (RHSI). This hive of activity can be visited during the following times:
March-April: Wed & Sat: 10:30 – 15:30 .
May: Wed & Sat: 10:30. – 15:30 |Sun: 14:00 – 17:00
June-August: Sun, Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 14:00 – 17:00 | Wed & Sat 10:30 – 15:30
The Walled Garden includes:
The walled garden is a work in progress being undertaken by RHSI volunteers.
Open March 1 – December 22, 2020
Daily 10:00 – 17:00
Last guided tours at 16:00. Parklands close at 18:00 sharp.
The walks are open year-round except for one week at Christmas.
Closed: December 20 to February 29
Last admission: Last tour at 17:00
Approx. visit duration: A half day to explore the estate
Russborough is 20 miles from both the airport and the city centre. From the M50, take the N81 exit to Blessington. Russborough is 2km beyond Blessington on the N81 road.
Contact
Russborough House and Parklands
Parklands, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
