HEYWOOD GARDENS

The beautiful Heywood Gardens at Ballinakill consist of 50 acres of gardens, lakes, woodland, and quirky architectural features designed by Edwin Lutyens. Free to enter & open to the public, it’s a great place to bring the kids for a walk.

Park at the foot of the drive, and make your way around the scenic lake walk, through the mature, overhanging trees. Then climb the steps to the formal gardens, where Heywood House once stood. Along the way are unusual points of interest, including a shrine, an obelisk, and a ‘Sham Castle’, built as a folly when the gardens were created.

Within the formal gardens is a pleached lime walkway, leading to a circular terraced garden with a sunken pool (can you spot the fish?), surrounded by a turtle fountain. It’s very pretty, and children seem to love the turtles!

Heywood Gardens also hosts The Twin Trees Festival – celebrating Art & Culture with everything from outdoor painting to classical music, expert speakers & outdoor yoga sessions.

After walking up an appetite, why not head into nearby Abbeyleix for lunch or a coffee?

• Heywood Gardens are 20 mins from Glamping Under The Stars
• Free Parking
• Lake Walk
• Formal Gardens
• Twin Trees Festival (August Heritage Week)
• Close to the Heritage Town of Abbeyleix