View MapView Map
HomeDestinationsDublinBalbrigganArdgillan Castle and Gard ...
Ardgillan Castle and Gardens
Balbriggan, Co. Dublin
Hidden gem
Family friendly
Free to visit
Free car parking
Rainy days
Ardgillan Castle and Gardens is a real hidden gem set in spectacular parklands and gardens. It overlooks the Irish Sea with a magnificent view of the Mourne Mountains and Lambay Island.

Ardgillan Castle and Demesne is a real hidden gem set in 194 acres of spectacular parklands, woodlands and gardens 20 miles North of Dublin City. It overlooks the Irish Sea with a magnificent view of the Mourne Mountains and Lambay Island. The castle is a large 18th century country-style house with castellated embellishments. Ardgillan is a sanctuary for many species of animals, mammals and birds.

Originally named Prospect House the central section was built by Robert Taylor in 1738, with the west and east wings added in the late 1800s. Ardgillan Castle also houses a permanent exhibition of 17th century Down Survey maps of Ireland worked on by chief examiner Thomas Taylor, Robert’s grandfather.

As well as the castle, the demesne features a Walled Garden and colourful Rose Garden. The Walled Garden was originally a Victorian-styled kitchen garden used to supply food and cut flowers to the house. One of the most interesting garden features is the impressive Alcove Wall. This freestanding wall with twenty alcoves is believed to have been originally built for growing the more tender fruit trees. It is thought to have been commissioned as a Famine relief project by the Taylor Family.

Today the demesne is a stunning visitor attraction with a range of facilities including castle tours, garden tours, theatre events, afternoon tea, a café, a fairy trail, children's playground and much more!

For all the best things to see and do in Dublin
Visit Dublin logo
Contact details
Ardgillan Demesne, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin, K32 WX87, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend up to 2 hours here.

For all the best things to see and do in Dublin
Visit Dublin logo
More to discover
History and heritageNewbridge House & Farm

Newbridge House is an 18th century Georgian mansion with original furnishings about a 15-minute drive from Dublin Airport. It is set in 370 acres of beautiful parkland including a working farm, an excellent children's playground, a café and a range of seasonal events. It is a great day out for all ages.

Coastal escapesLambay Island

Lambay Island, off the coast of Portrane and Rush, County Dublin, is a hidden sanctuary of nature, history and creativity. Relax and recharge with their historical architecture, history and nature tours, wellness and creativity retreats.

History and heritageMalahide Castle and Gardens

Malahide Castle, set on 250 acres of parkland in the pretty seaside town of Malahide, was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years and is an interesting mix of architectural styles. The Demesne has much to offer visitors of all ages: an award-winning children's playground, a fairy trail, a butterfly house, old abbey ruins, walking trails, Avoca Store & Café, guided tours of the castle interior and the Talbot Botanic Gardens with unusual specimens.

History and heritageCasino Marino

Casino Marino is a miniature architectural masterpiece. The Casino, meaning small house, was commissioned by Lord Charlemont in the mid 18th century. It is a Palladian Neoclassic garden temple and only 5km north of Dublin City centre.

Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.