Drimbawn House

Overview

Perched on a gentle slope above the shimmering waters of Lough Mask, Drimbawn House is a 19th‑century hunting lodge surrounded by a lovingly restored Victorian garden. The estate unfolds in a series of distinct zones – a formal walled garden, an emerging arboretum, an orchard of thirty‑five heritage apple varieties, and a miniature ‘Jungle’ of exotic New Zealand flora. Sweeping lake vistas framed by distant mountains make it a photographer’s paradise and a tranquil retreat for garden lovers.

History

The house was erected between 1855 and 1856 for the Honourable Catherine Plunket (1803‑1868) and was originally known as Lough Mask Cottage. Dublin‑based architect Patrick Byrne designed the ruby‑coloured sandstone lodge with limestone dressings, a symmetrical break‑front and a hipped slate roof punctuated by ornate chimneystacks. Original interior features survive in remarkable condition: carved timber door surrounds, six‑over‑six sash windows, cut‑black and cut‑white marble Classical‑style chimneypieces, and moulded plasterwork crowned by acanthus‑detailed ceiling roses.

The surrounding grounds were laid out in the mid‑19th century by Ninian Niven, the first Curator of Dublin’s Botanic Gardens, for Bishop Plunkett. Over the decades the estate passed through several notable families – the McCauslands, Lieutenant‑Colonel John McDonnell, and actor Robert Shaw – each leaving a subtle imprint on the property’s story.

Later owners and notable residents

• Sir Richard Bolton McCausland (c.1870s) – the house became the country home of Catherine Plunket’s cousin and remained in his family until the early 1960s.
• The Wilson family – current owners who, in 2001, commissioned designer Daphne Shackleton to begin a careful restoration of the garden, reviving its Victorian character while introducing contemporary planting schemes.
• Robert Shaw (1971‑1978) – the acclaimed actor lived at Drimbawn House for several years, built a nine‑hole golf course on the grounds and became a beloved figure in the local community. A memorial stone on the shore of Lough Mask, erected in 2008, marks his lasting connection to Tourmakeady.

Historical Context & Notable Residents

During the Irish War of Independence, Drimbawn House played a peripheral role. The gate of the estate was one of the key positions used by the IRA in the Tourmakeady Ambush of 3 May 1921; three RIC officers were killed in the exchange of fire that began at the gate (see CLTME article on the ambush). This episode adds a layer of poignant history to the otherwise peaceful setting.

What to See & Do

• The Walled Garden – Gravel paths, sweeping lawns and a rich collection of perennials, climbers and flowering shrubs. Seasonal displays of roses, wildflowers and ornamental grasses create a constantly changing palette.
• Vegetable Garden – An organic plot supplies fresh produce for the house, illustrating the estate’s self‑sustaining ethos.
• Terrace & Pleached Hedging – A paved stone terrace offers unobstructed views across the lake, bordered by neatly pleached hedges.
• Arboretum (in development) – A growing collection of specimen trees adds height and texture to the landscape.
• Apple Orchard – Home to 35 heritage apple varieties, a living repository of Irish pomology.
• Propagation Area – Tropical fruits, seedlings and cuttings are nurtured here, showcasing experimental planting.
• Woodland & Bog Garden – Higher up, a carpet of ferns and spring bulbs gives way to a bog garden teeming with water‑loving plants.
• The ‘Jungle’ – A recent micro‑climate houses a small collection of New Zealand species, adding an unexpected exotic touch.
• Architectural Details – Inside the lodge, visitors can admire the carved timber surrounds, marble chimneypieces and delicate plasterwork.
• Remnants of Shaw’s Golf Course – Traces of the nine‑hole course can still be seen in the gently undulating lawn near the house.
• Robert Shaw Memorial Stone – Located on the lakeshore, it offers a quiet spot for reflection.

Events

Drimbawn House hosts occasional horticultural events organised by the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland (RHSI). Recent examples include:

• Floral Art Demonstration by Suzanne Cray – 20 February 2019
• Day Tour to Altamont Garden, Co Carlow – 9 February 2019

Events are announced on the RHSI partner page and are generally limited to members or pre‑registered participants.

Getting There & Parking

The estate is best explored on foot, allowing you to wander from the formal garden spaces to the more natural woodland and bog areas at your own pace. While the house itself remains a private hunting lodge, the garden’s varied sections are open to visitors who have arranged a visit in advance.

Nearby Attractions

• Monks Fishing House in Cong, a historic 19th‑century fishing lodge on the shores of Lough Connemara (see Monks Fishing House).
• Ballycroy National Park – a vast wilderness area of blanket bog, pine forest and wildlife, ideal for longer hikes (see ballycroy-national-park).
• Lough Mask itself offers opportunities for kayaking, bird‑watching and scenic drives along its western shore.

Visiting Tips

• Photography: The ruby‑coloured sandstone walls glow warmly in the afternoon sun, offering striking contrast against the lake’s surface.
• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes are advisable for the gravel paths and uneven woodland sections.
• Seasonal highlights: Late spring brings a burst of roses and wildflowers; autumn is the time to see the apple orchard in colour and to sample freshly‑picked fruit.
• Accessibility: The garden is not wheelchair‑accessible due to uneven terrain; please check with the head gardener for any specific requirements.

For the most up‑to‑date information on appointment times, public open days and any special events, refer to the RHSI page linked above or contact the head gardener directly. Enjoy the serenity of this unique Mayo estate, where Victorian ambition meets contemporary horticultural passion.