Overview
Set on the rolling hills of north County Westmeath, Tullynally Castle (also known as Pakenham Hall) dominates the landscape from the “Hill of the Swan” and offers sweeping views of Lough Derravaragh, the legendary lake of the Children of Lir. The estate is a living family home for the Earls of Longford, yet it welcomes the public from April to September for garden strolls, a tea‑room, and guided tours of its historic rooms. With a blend of 19th‑century formal gardens, a Chinese pagoda, a Tibetan waterfall garden, and a network of woodland trails, the site offers a tranquil escape just 80 minutes’ drive from Dublin.
History
Tullynally’s story begins in 1655 when Henry Pakenham, a Parliamentary Dragoon, was granted the lands as payment for arrears. The original square plantation house, known then as Pakenham Hall, formed the core of today’s castle. Key moments:
- 1665 – Henry Pakenham receives the estate.
- 1780 – The house is enlarged in a Georgian style by architect Graham Myers.
- Early 1800s – The 2nd Earl of Longford remodels the house in the Gothic‑Revival style, adding towers, a moat and crenellated façades.
- Late 19th century – Landscape design expands, creating the terraced lawns and ornamental lakes seen today.
- 1960s‑present – Thomas and Valerie Pakenham revive the gardens, introducing exotic plantings from China, Tibet and the Himalayas and adding features such as the Chinese pagoda and Tibetan garden.
The estate sits on the historic “Hill of the Swan”, a viewpoint that frames Lough Derravaragh and the surrounding mid‑land scenery.
Landscape and Gardens
Tullynally’s 12 acres of parkland showcase two centuries of garden design. Highlights include:
- Terraced lawns sweeping toward two ornamental lakes, perfect for classic vistas.
- Walled Garden with historic flower borders, a 200‑year‑old avenue of Irish yews, summerhouses, a stone Nandi (sacred Indian bull) and a small herd of llamas.
- Woodland Walk – a shaded glade dotted with a limestone grotto featuring carvings by a local artist, and native trees that change colour through the seasons.
- Chinese Garden – centred on a pagoda‑capped pavilion, surrounded by exotic shrubs and rare magnolias, lilies and the striking Cardiocrinum giganteum (Giant Himalayan Lily) introduced by Thomas Pakenham.
- Tibetan Garden – cascading waterfalls and streams that evoke the Himalayas, a favourite spot for quiet reflection.
- Family Coach – an elegant 19th‑century carriage on display in the courtyard, illustrating the estate’s social history.
Family‑friendly routes weave through the grounds:
- Children’s Discovery Trail – a whimsical path where hidden creatures invite young explorers to hunt for clues.
- Tree Trail – a curated walk past 24 of Thomas Pakenham’s favourite trees.
- Climbing frame near the entrance for a quick play break.
The Castle Interior
Guided tours (May‑September) take visitors through the Great Hall, Library, Drawing Room and Dining Room, before descending into the Victorian servants’ quarters, kitchens and laundries. The tours, lasting about 45 minutes, reveal personal artefacts, family portraits and the everyday life of staff who kept the house running. Children under ten are not admitted, and advance booking is recommended during peak weekends.
Tearoom & Giftshop
The Stables Tearroom, open the same hours as the gardens (09:00‑17:00 Thursday‑Sunday), serves freshly baked scones, sandwiches and a selection of teas. Indoor and covered outdoor seating let visitors savour a light lunch while overlooking the parkland. The adjoining shop stocks Pakenham‑authored books, locally made mugs and garden‑inspired souvenirs.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
During the summer the estate hosts a programme of classical concerts, literary talks and seasonal festivals. Heritage Week (13‑23 August 2026) opens the castle and gardens daily (09:00‑17:00) with extra guided walks and special performances. The venue is also available for private hire – the walled flower garden and arboretum can be booked for weddings, corporate events or celebrations.
Practical Information
Opening Hours & Tickets
| Facility | Opening Times | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Gardens (incl. Tearroom) | Thu‑Sun 09:00‑17:00 (Closed Mon‑Wed) | Adults €9, Children €4, Family €24 |
| Castle Tours (May‑Sep) | Thu‑Sat 11:00, 12:30, 14:00 (no Sunday tours except Heritage Week) | Adults €17, Children €9 (10+ only) – includes garden entry |
Tickets can be purchased on‑site at the courtyard reception or booked online via the official booking links. Season tickets are also available – €60 for an adult plus guest, €73 for a family of two adults and two children (5‑16 years). Season‑ticket holders enjoy unlimited visits during opening hours and a 50 % discount on guided garden walks.
Getting There
Tullynally lies 2 km south of Castlepollard on the Granard road (N91 HV58). From Dublin, follow the N4 to the N3 and then the N52 to Castlepollard; the drive takes roughly 80 minutes.
- Parking – a free car park is available at the entrance of the estate. No fee is charged, but spaces fill quickly on weekends.
- Public transport – Bus Éireann services run to Castlepollard from Athlone and Mullingar. From the Castlepollard bus stop it is a 2 km (≈25 minute) walk along Pakenham Hall Road, or a short taxi ride (5‑10 minutes).
Facilities
- Restrooms – available in the castle courtyard; none within the garden paths.
- Dog policy – dogs are welcome on leads throughout the grounds.
- Picnics – not permitted in the gardens; the tearoom offers a convenient alternative.
- Photography – allowed in the gardens and exterior; interior photography is prohibited during castle tours.
Accessibility
The Pleasure Ground, Grotto Glade, Walled Garden and Flower Garden feature firm gravel surfaces suitable for most wheelchairs and buggies. The Forest Walk consists mainly of grass and may be difficult for wheeled users. Castle interiors are not fully accessible; visitors requiring assistance should contact the estate in advance to discuss possible accommodations.
Nearby Attractions
- Abbey Blooms Botanical Gardens – a short drive north, offering themed garden rooms and a butterfly house.
- Belvedere House Estate and Jealous Wall – 30 km south, with Georgian architecture and extensive parkland.
- Hill of Uisneach – a historic ceremonial site a few kilometres east of Tullynally.
- Fore Abbey – medieval ruins set beside Lough Ennell, reachable via a scenic countryside drive.
For the latest event listings, ticket availability and any temporary changes, please check the estate’s website or contact the visitor centre directly.