The castle is home to a collection of elaborate 19th-century cast-iron conservatories designed by Richard Turner.
The estate features a 1.5-mile-long lime avenue planted in the early 18th century.
The family name, Pakenham, is associated with the Duke of Wellington, who was a close relative of the residents.
The gardens were significantly expanded and updated by the current Countess of Longford, Valerie Pakenham.
The estate utilizes a series of man-made lakes, which were originally part of a Victorian drainage and aesthetic landscaping project.
Parts of the castle were designed by Francis Johnston, the architect responsible for the GPO in Dublin.
Tullynally Castle is the ancestral seat of the Pakenham family, the Earls of Longford, who have resided here since 1655. The current Gothic Revival structure incorporates a fortified 17th-century house. Its 12-acre gardens feature a series of distinct zones including a walled flower garden, a Victorian kitchen garden, and a grotto. A notable feature is the Tibetan garden, which utilizes a hollowed-out landscape to create a specific microclimate for rare plants. The estate grounds include ancient woodland, a chain of ornamental lakes, and a lime walk. Much of the original 19th-century conservatory remains intact, showcasing period ironwork. The castle remains a private family home, restricting public access to the gardens and specific exterior areas.
The view of the Gothic facade across the lake from the lower garden paths.
Wear waterproof footwear as paths through the woodland and garden sections can remain damp or muddy.
Plan your walk to include the Tibetan garden and the lakeside circuit for the full garden experience.
Check the official website for current garden accessibility, as some areas may be closed for private maintenance or family events.
Attempting to access the private living quarters of the house, which are strictly off-limits to the public.
The gardens are generally seasonal, typically opening from spring through early autumn; closed during winter months.
Stay on marked paths; respect the privacy of the family by not approaching the residential portions of the castle.
