Powerscourt Estate
Powerscourt, in Enniskerry, is one of the best known landscapes in Ireland. That famous view south, from the terraced gardens, over the Triton pond, towards the Sugarloaf Mountain has been photographed many times on day trips out from Dublin.
The house itself was once a very large Palladian mansion,which was designed by Richard Castle for Sir Richard Wingfield, who was given the land by King James in 1603. He was later conferred with the title of Viscount Powerscourt who along with his successors transformed an already beautiful natural landscape into a Victorian Elysian retreat, fit for a king. Who apparently never got to visit? a specially made throne is still waiting there for him ....
Nevermind, today the estate on is owned and run by the Slazenger family who this year are celebrating 50 years of ownership having bought the run down 14,000 acre estate in the 1960’s. Which is quite an achievement considering the house and its contents were badly damaged by fire in 1974. However, it has since being restored and is open to the public. The ballroom is available for private venues including weddings, the lush gardens and lavish borders making for the perfect photo opportunity. Breaking News....
A new and very exciting addition to Powerscourt is
Tara's Palace
which is a magnificent 22 room dolls house and garden based on the world renowned Titanias Palace which was sadly lost to Ireland in 1978, yet has been meticulously crafted and replicated in stunning miniature with new pieces being gifted and added constantly to the already extensive collection of childhood memoroabilia.
Powerscourt is open daily to visitors, you can tour Tara's Palace, the restored rooms and explore the gardens. There is also a well stocked garden centre, delightful cafe with a terrace with great food and oh that view...
Your can browse the bespoke furniture centre upstairs or lose yourself in the delightful Avoca Handweavers Shop downstairs.
10 Other things to do and see nearby are...
1 Visit the Powerscourt Waterfall, a tourist attraction since 1721.
2 The Ritz Carlton Hotel for an overnight stay, spa treatment or Gordon Ramsey signature meal.
3 Enniskerry village one of the prettiest villages in Ireland, cute architecture and nice shops to browse in...
4 Poppy's Cafe is a legend in home baking, be sure to try their smarty covered chocolate cake.
5 Kilruddery House to see the tiara shaped conservatory designed to mimic the diamond one sold by her ladyship to finance it.
6 Climb the Sugarloaf Mountain for great views and fresh air of course!
7 Johnnie Fox's the highest/oldest pub in Ireland over the road and up the mountain in Glencullen.
8 Glendalough lakes and the 6th century monastic site founded by St Kevin, great picnic stops.
9 Drive through the Scalp (Indian Country) and down into the Glen of the Downs or garden of Ireland, at strawberry time.
10 Hike up to the Hellfire club which the devil is said have burned down after being cheated in a poker game.
For more information on Tara's Palace please click here
For more on Irelands Parks & Gardens please click here
For more information on Powerscourt please click here.
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