Overview
Huntington Castle & Gardens occupies a striking position on the banks of the River Derry in the village of Clonegal, County Carlow. Since 1625, the estate has remained in the hands of its founding families, evolving from a defensive garrison into a living historic home surrounded by award-winning grounds. Today, the Durdin-Robertson family leads guided tours through the castle, the sprawling gardens, and the unique underground Temple of the Goddess, offering visitors a rare glimpse into centuries of Irish heritage.
A Living History
The current structure was built in 1625 by Sir Laurence Esmonde to guard the vital Wexford-to-Dublin route. It replaced an earlier 15th-century tower house belonging to the Caviness clan. Following the Cromwellian conquest in 1650, the estate changed hands several times before the Esmondes reclaimed it and renamed it “Huntington” in the 1680s. They established the first formal gardens, including the lime-tree avenue that still frames the approach to the house.
Successive generations left distinct marks on the property. In 1888, an early water-turbine house was installed to generate electricity for the estate decades before nationalisation. The Durdin-Robertson family has managed the castle since the 20th century, with Alex and Clare taking over in 2010. Their stewardship has preserved the home’s intimate, lived-in character while opening it to the public.
The castle’s corridors hold the stories of several remarkable women. Ailish O’Malley, a descendant of pirate queen Grace O’Malley, served as an early chatelaine who navigated turbulent political shifts to keep the estate intact. Big-game hunter Nora Parsons brought back a 110-tooth crocodile skull, which now rests in the hallway. Olivia Robertson, a social worker and artist, later founded the spiritual temple in the basement during the 1970s.
Gardens & Grounds
The grounds blend structured landscaping with wilder, natural spaces. Visitors can follow the Italian Parterre’s symmetrical lawns, wander through the Yew Walk lined with trees over 500 years old, or stroll the fragrant Lime-Tree Avenue planted in the 17th century. The Water Gardens, laid out in the 1680s, feature ornamental ponds, a lake, and fish habitats that attract local wildlife.
Exotic specimens like towering palms and graceful cypresses grow alongside native oaks, hickory, and Siberian crab apple trees. The estate also maintains a small working farm atmosphere: free-roaming chickens, lambs, sheep, cattle, and a resident peacock share the grounds with visitors. A woodland playground provides space for children to explore, while the early water-turbine house stands as a quiet testament to the estate’s historical self-sufficiency.
The Castle & Temple of the Goddess
Inside the castle, original fireplaces, tapestry-hung drawing rooms, and an ivy-clad conservatory create a warm, domestic atmosphere. Guided tours are led by family members, who share personal anecdotes and historical details that printed guides rarely cover. The conservatory’s grape-vine-covered ceilings and historic plantings make it a popular spot for morning coffee in the on-site tea rooms.
Descending to the basement, visitors encounter the Temple of the Goddess. Created by the Fellowship of Isis, the space features vivid mosaics, Egyptian motifs, and hand-painted walls. The name was updated from “Temple of Isis” in recent years to reflect a broader spiritual focus and avoid confusion. The castle is also known for its atmospheric ghost tours, particularly during Halloween. Local folklore speaks of a soldier’s spectre in the Yew Walk, a lady combing her hair by moonlight, and the lingering presence of Barbara St. Lego in the upper corridors.
The estate’s dramatic architecture has attracted filmmakers for decades. Stanley Kubrick selected the gardens and interiors for key scenes in Barry Lyndon (1975), and the property has since appeared in numerous Irish television productions and documentaries.
Staying Overnight & Seasonal Events
For those wishing to extend their visit, Huntington offers several accommodation options. Bed & Breakfast rooms feature four-poster beds, original fireplaces, and garden views. The self-catering Esmonde Wing accommodates up to six guests and overlooks the 14th-century abbey ruins. The converted 17th-century Castle Gatehouse is available for private hire as a theatre or event space.
The estate hosts seasonal events throughout the year. Late February and early March bring snowdrop walks, while Easter and Christmas feature themed garden tours and craft workshops. Halloween is marked by atmospheric lighting, special activities for children, and extended ghost-hunting tours. Summer months occasionally see outdoor concerts and art installations in the gardens.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Gardens & Woodland Playground: Daily 11:00–17:00 (year-round, including Bank Holidays, Easter & Halloween)
- Castle Tours: Daily 13:00–16:00 (May–Sep); Weekends 13:00–16:00 (Oct–Dec & Feb–Apr)
- Tea Rooms & Gift Shop: Daily 11:00–17:00
Admission Fees
- Gardens & Playground: €6.95 adults, €3 children (4–12), under 4 free
- Castle Tour (includes gardens & playground): €13.95 adults, €12.95 concessions, €6.50 children (under 12)
- Note: Castle tours do not run on wedding days.
Visitor Tips
- Dogs are not permitted on the grounds.
- Picnics are not allowed inside the gardens; please use the tea rooms or designated areas outside the walls.
- The castle interior is not wheelchair-accessible due to narrow staircases and historic doorways. The gardens and playground are largely level and suitable for visitors with limited mobility.
- Free parking is available in the Castle Car Park opposite the tea rooms.
Nearby in County Carlow
Huntington Castle makes a natural stop on a wider exploration of the region. The South Leinster Way passes through the area, offering scenic forest walks and mountain views. Within a short drive, visitors can explore the Georgian architecture of Borris House, the medieval ruins of Carlow Castle, or the prehistoric Brownshill Dolmen. For a different pace, the Delta Sensory Gardens at Strawhall Estate provide a tranquil setting for a relaxed afternoon. Booking castle tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak summer months and seasonal event weekends.