VISITOR ATTRACTION: what’s new and what’s cool at Wexford’s Colclough Walled Garden

Colclough Walled Garden, a beautifully restored Georgian walled garden built by the Colclough family (pronounced “Coke-lee”) in the early 19th century, is a tranquil 2.5-acre oasis adjacent to Tintern Abbey on the Hook Peninsula. Restored to its 1838 layout by local volunteers and Hook Tourism since 2010, it is a highlight of County Wexford’s heritage, offering a blend of horticultural beauty, historical significance, and community spirit.

Built before 1814 using stone from surrounding fields and handmade bricks from local clay, the 2.5-acre garden is divided into two sections by a central brick wall with unique curved corners and two intra-mural structures (small buildings). The eastern section is an ornamental flower garden with vibrant beds of annuals, perennials, and roses, while the western section is a kitchen garden growing organic fruits and vegetables, including apples, plums, gooseberries, and heritage varieties. A stream runs through both sections, crossed by five charming bridges, creating a serene centerpiece.

The garden’s layout was meticulously reinstated using an 1838 Ordinance Survey of Ireland (OSI) historical map, restoring geometric diamond-shaped flowerbeds, a Victorian vinery, and an orangery for grapes and citrus plants. Archaeological geophysics by Earthsound helped uncover original features like the diamond design. A giant willow-and-wicker scarecrow by artist Barbara Kelly and a restored glasshouse (funded by a “Sponsor a Timber” scheme) add character.

Biodiversity: The garden is a haven for pollinators, with planting schemes designed to attract bees and butterflies. Visitors often note the abundance of wildlife, including songbirds, and the scent of lavender, roses, and herbs creating a sensory delight. The surrounding Tintern Forest, with bluebells and wild garlic in spring, enhances the natural setting.
Produce and Cider: An honesty box allows visitors to purchase freshly picked, organic fruits and vegetables. In summer, the garden offers cider and apple juice tastings made from heritage apples, inspired by Norman knight William Marshal, with dry and sweet varieties available for purchase.
Self-Guided Exploration: The garden is open year-round (10:00 AM–6:00 PM, May–September; 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, October–April; last admission 30 minutes before closing), allowing visitors to wander its winding paths at their own pace. A typical visit takes 2–2.5 hours, ideal for leisurely strolls, photography, or picnicking in designated areas. Information panels and occasional guides (like head gardener Alan Ryan or Paul) provide historical and horticultural insights, often sharing stories about the Colclough family and restoration efforts.
Guided Tours: Available on request or during events, these tours (30–45 minutes) offer deeper context about the garden’s history, Georgian gardening methods inspired by JC Loudon, and the Colclough family’s legacy, including their connection to Tintern Abbey and the legal disputes that inspired Charles Dickens’ Jarndyce v Jarndyce in Bleak House.
Atmosphere and Activities: Described as a “tranquil gem” with a magical microclimate protected by high brick walls, the garden is recommended for nature lovers, gardeners, and families. Children enjoy exploring paths, spotting quirky features like the scarecrow, and running across bridges. The garden’s peaceful setting, Located in a verdant vale with wooded scenery, is ideal for relaxation or sketching. Seasonal events and workshops, such as gardening demonstrations or community planting days, engage visitors with local traditions.
Tintern Abbey Proximity: Located 520 meters southwest of Tintern Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian ruin founded by William Marshal c.1200, the garden is often paired with an abbey visit. A scenic woodland path connects the two, passing the ruins of a gardener’s cottage, offering a historical stroll through Tintern village. Combined tickets for both sites enhance value.
Visitor Feedback: With a 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award (4.5 stars, 164 reviews), the garden is praised for its stunning restoration, vibrant flowerbeds, and abundant fruit trees. Visitors highlight the friendly staff, the variety of plants, and the community-driven ethos, with comments like “a floral paradise” and “well worth the fee.” Some negative reviews from 2021 noted neglect (e.g., fallen apples, a collapsed wall section replaced by palisade fencing), but recent feedback and maintenance efforts suggest improvements, with the garden in better condition. The lack of credit card facilities and occasional understaffing are minor drawbacks.

Practical Information:

Tintern Abbey, Saltmills, Hook Peninsula, Co. Wexford, Y34 XA66, accessible via the R733 from New Ross (10–15 minutes by car or taxi) or a 4 km (50-minute) walk from New Ross town center.
From Wexford town, take a bus to New Ross, then a taxi. Free parking is available at Tintern Abbey or Tintern Forest entrance.
Daily, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (May–September), 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (October–April), last admission 30 minutes before closing. Check www.colcloughwalledgarden.com for updates.
Admission: €5 adults, €3 children; combined ticket with Tintern Abbey (€7 adults, €5 children). Annual tickets and group rates available; RHSI members enter free with a valid card. Book online at www.colcloughwalledgarden.com or purchase at the gate (cash preferred).
Gravel paths are partially wheelchair-accessible, but some areas will be uneven. Dogs are welcome on leads. Contact info@colcloughwalledgarden.com for specific needs.
Amenities: Toilets and parking are at Tintern Abbey. No on-site café, but picnic areas are available. Nearby dining includes The Hollow Bar & Seafood Restaurant (4.45 km). Visitors can buy produce or cider via an honesty box.
Nearby Attractions: Pair with Tintern Abbey, the Hook Lighthouse, Loftus Hall, or the JFK Arboretum for a full day on the Hook Peninsula.

What’s New:

Improved Maintenance and Restoration: Following older criticisms of neglect (e.g., fallen apples, a collapsed wall), ongoing volunteer efforts led by head gardener Alan Ryan and Hook Tourism aim to enhance the garden’s condition.
Expanded Seasonal Events: Building on the success of summer cider and apple juice tastings, 2025 will feature more frequent tastings and workshops, including spring pruning demonstrations or autumn harvest festivals, using heritage apples and Georgian gardening techniques. These events align with the Wexford Garden Trail’s community focus.
Private Event Offerings: The garden is now available for private hires (e.g., weddings, photoshoots), with 2025 seeing increased promotion of its picturesque setting for special occasions, supported by new booking options on www.colcloughwalledgarden.com.

Practical Tips

Planning Your Visit: Book tickets online at www.colcloughwalledgarden.com for convenience, especially for combined Tintern Abbey visits. Allow 2–2.5 hours to explore the garden and abbey. Visit in spring (April–May) for bluebells and wild garlic or summer (June–August) for full blooms and cider tastings. Bring cash for the honesty box and wear comfortable shoes for gravel paths.
Best Start with a guided tour (if available) for historical context, then wander the ornamental garden for vibrant colors and the kitchen garden for fresh produce. Pack a picnic for designated areas and try the cider for a unique souvenir. Combine with Tintern Abbey’s medieval ruins for a full historical experience.
Accessibility Note: Confirm accessibility needs via info@colcloughwalledgarden.com, as gravel paths may challenge mobility. Dogs on leads enhance the pet-friendly appeal.
Seasonal Tip: Summer visits maximise floral displays and tastings, while autumn offers harvest charm. Check the website for event schedules or closures due to weather.
Colclough Walled Garden is a serene, community-restored gem offering natural beauty and historical charm, with 2025 enhancements like improved maintenance and events making it a recommended visit on the Hook Peninsula. For the latest updates on events, tickets, or hours, visit www.colcloughwalledgarden.com or contact info@colcloughwalledgarden.com