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Places of interest #6 in Bray, County Wicklow

Killruddery

4.7 · 1,783 reviews
Serene, sprawling, and historically layered.
Killruddery, Southern Cross Rd, Kilruddery Demesne West, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Interesting facts
1

The gardens retain the original 17th-century design by Monsieur Bonet, a pupil of Le Nôtre, the landscape architect for Versailles.

2

The house features a famous conservatory designed by William Burn in the 1850s, inspired by London's Crystal Palace.

3

The estate grounds contain a rare surviving example of a 'wilderness' area, popular in 18th-century landscape design.

4

The Brabazon family has held the title of Earl of Meath since 1627.

5

The canal system in the gardens originally featured two long rectangular ponds known as 'The Long Ponds'.

Overview

Killruddery is a 17th-century estate located in County Wicklow, featuring a house heavily remodeled in the Regency style during the 1820s. The site remains a family-owned working farm and private residence, home to the Brabazon family for over 400 years. Its grounds comprise 800 acres of woodland, formal gardens, and parkland. The garden layout is one of the oldest in Ireland, retaining its 17th-century 'delf' or canal system and long lime avenues. The site is a common filming location for period television dramas and movies. It currently functions as a visitor attraction with an on-site farm shop, café, and seasonal weekend markets.

Photo spot

Inside the Victorian conservatory looking toward the gardens through the iron-framed glass arches.

Insider tips

Check the estate's online calendar before visiting, as the house occasionally closes for private events or weddings.

Wear waterproof footwear, as the gravel paths and woodland trails can be muddy depending on the season.

Allow time to walk the full length of the lime tree avenues for the best view of the garden geometry.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk from Bray town center on foot, as the road leading to the entrance lacks pedestrian walkways.

Good to know

The estate often closes for the winter season from December through February and may have restricted access during weekdays in early spring.

Etiquette

Keep to designated paths to protect the historical garden features; pets must remain on a lead at all times.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
3-4 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for the bluebell bloom in the woodlands or summer for the full garden colors.
Address
Killruddery, Southern Cross Rd, Kilruddery Demesne West, Bray, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
53.182, -6.104
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleRegency and Tudor Revival
Garden Features17th-century canals, long lime avenues, and Victorian conservatory

Frequently asked

Plan for about 3-4 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for the bluebell bloom in the woodlands or summer for the full garden colors..

Inside the Victorian conservatory looking toward the gardens through the iron-framed glass arches.

Close by you'll find Bray Head Cross, Marine Life Bray, Powerscourt House & Gardens.