Overview
Kilfane Glen & Waterfall is a romantic‑era garden set in a 6‑hectare (approximately 15‑acre) valley near the village of Thomastown in County Kilkenny. First laid out in the 1790s by the Power family, the garden has remained largely untouched for two centuries, offering a rare glimpse of an 18th‑century landscape that blends formal planting with the wild, rugged aesthetic championed by the Romantic movement. Towering ancient trees, tiny stone bridges, fox‑gloves, ferns and a 30‑foot cascade that tumbles into a clear pool create a picture‑postcard setting that feels both historic and timeless. The site is listed as an Irish Heritage Garden and received European Union cultural assistance in 1993, underscoring its national significance.
History
The garden was conceived by Sir John Power and his wife, Lady Power, on the demesne of Kilfane House during the 1790s. Influenced by the Romantic ideals spreading across Europe, the Powers deliberately chose a rugged ravine on the edge of their estate, diverting streams to enhance the waterfall and carving a grotto that would become the focal point of the garden. A thatched summerhouse – essentially a cottage orné – was erected nearby to host guests, and the surrounding woodland was planted with species fashionable in the late 18th century, such as fox‑gloves and native ferns.
When the Power family’s fortunes waned in the 19th century, the garden fell into neglect. Paths overgrew, the cottage crumbled and the watercourse dried. Fortunately, a wealth of sketches and watercolours survived, allowing a faithful restoration in the early 21st century. Ongoing work, supported by the Kilfane Trust, has revived the original layout while inviting contemporary artists to create site‑specific installations in the upper garden. Today, Kilfane Glen stands as perhaps the finest surviving example of a Romantic‑era garden in Ireland.
What to See & Do
The Gardens
Strolling through Kilfane Glen is a sensory experience. Formal lawns give way to wild woodland trails carpeted with bluebells in spring and a mosaic of ferns year‑round. Rustic grottos, stone bridges and moss‑covered boulders punctuate the route, while carefully placed sculptures add a subtle contemporary layer. The planting scheme remains true to the Powers’ original vision, with historically correct 18th‑century species intermingling with naturally occurring flora.
The Waterfall
The crowning feature is the 30‑foot waterfall. A gentle stream winds through the garden before plunging over a rugged rock face, creating a mist‑filled pool at its base. Depending on the season, the cascade can be a thunderous rush or a delicate veil, each offering a different mood for contemplation. The pool’s surrounding garden provides a tranquil spot for a quiet picnic or a moment of reflection.
The Thatched Summerhouse
At the foot of the waterfall sits the thatched cottage – originally a summerhouse for the Power family’s guests. Today it functions as a modest visitor centre with toilets and a few benches, making it an ideal place to rest after exploring the trails. Its thatched roof and timber frame echo the vernacular architecture of rural Ireland, adding to the site’s historic charm.
Art Installations & Community Projects
The Kilfane Trust invites artists to propose works that are created in situ, turning parts of the upper garden into a living gallery. These installations change periodically, giving repeat visitors something new to discover while maintaining the garden’s historic integrity.
Practical Information
Opening Hours & Admission
Kilfane Glen operates on a very limited seasonal schedule, opening only in the peak summer months. The official hours are:
| Month | Opening Times |
|---|---|
| July | 11:00 – 18:00 |
| August | 11:00 – 18:00 |
Admission is €7 per adult, payable in cash only. Reductions are offered for families, seniors (OAPs) and students, and group bookings can be arranged in advance through the site’s contact email.
Getting There
The garden lies about 18 km southeast of Kilkenny City, a roughly 20‑minute drive via the N77 and local roads. From Kilkenny, follow signs to Thomastown and then look for the Kilfane Glen turn‑off on the left. The site is sign‑posted from the main road, and a small car park is available on‑site at no charge.
Contact & Further Details
For the most up‑to‑date information, ticket arrangements or enquiries about artist residencies, visitors should consult the official website or call the contact number provided.
- Website: kilfane.com
- Phone: +353 56 7727105
- Email: susanmosse@nicholasmosse.com (available via the Outdoor Kilkenny directory)
Nearby Attractions
Kilfane Glen’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring other Kilkenny highlights. Within a 20‑minute drive you can visit the Cistercian ruins of Jerpoint Abbey, the medieval fortress of Kells Priory, or the scenic village of Inistioge on the River Nore. The highest point in the county, Brandon Hill, is also a short drive away for those seeking panoramic views.
Accessibility
While the garden’s pathways are largely natural and may include uneven surfaces, the main loop is designed to be easily navigable for most visitors. Wheelchair users should be aware that some of the more rustic sections (e.g., the stone bridges and grotto) may present challenges.
Kilfane Glen offers a rare blend of historic romance, natural beauty and artistic intrigue. Its limited summer opening ensures a peaceful, uncrowded experience, allowing visitors to step back into an era when gardens were crafted as living poems. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover or simply seeking a quiet spot to unwind, Kilfane Glen is a hidden gem worth planning into your Kilkenny itinerary.