RUSSBOROUGH

HOUSE AND PARK

RUSSBOROUGH

HOUSE

AND PARK

POCKET IRELANDPlace Guides › Russborough House and Park

Located near the Blessington Lakes in County Wicklow, Russborough House and Park, the house is an example of aristocratic grandeur tempered by the tranquillity of its surroundings, where the imposing granite façade contrasts softly with the rolling green parkland and the distant silhouette of the Wicklow Mountains.

Unique Features

Russborough is renowned for having the longest main frontage of any house in Ireland, stretching an impressive 210 metres. This architectural feat creates a dramatic first impression that is matched by the interior, which houses elements of the world-famous Beit Collection—an assemblage of fine art, furnishings, and porcelain that has a storied history of high-profile thefts and recoveries.

Hedge Maze and Birds of Prey

Outdoors, the estate features a 1,800-square-metre beech hedge maze, a favourite for visitors seeking a whimsical challenge. The grounds also host the National Bird of Prey Centre, where you can observe hawks, falcons, and owls up close, adding a wild, natural element to the manicured estate.

Meadow, Lake and Woodland Walks

For those seeking a stroll amongst a variety of natural habitats, there’s several routes available.

The Lake Walk (approx. 2km - 30-40 mins)
This is the premier route for water views. It loops toward the shores of the Blessington Lakes (Poulaphouca Reservoir), offering expansive vistas of the water framed by the granite peaks of the Wicklow Mountains. As you walk, the terrain shifts from the formal terraces near the house to open, grassy banks that feel much wilder.

The Woodland & Rhododendron Walk (approx. 2.5km - 45 mins)
For a more enclosed and atmospheric experience, this trail winds through the estate’s mature broadleaf forests. In late spring (May/June), the Rhododendron Garden is a riot of colour, but even in other seasons, the canopy of ancient beech and oak trees creates a serene, dappled-light environment. This route often overlaps with the Tree Trail, where you can spot specimen trees that have stood since the house was built.

The Wildlife Trail / Meadow Areas
While often part of the longer Loop Walk, the meadow sections are a result of the estate's recent "Wild at Heart" biodiversity initiative. Large swathes of the parkland have been converted from manicured lawns to species-rich grasslands. In summer, these meadows are alive with wildflowers, butterflies, and bees, creating a soft, buzzing contrast to the stillness of the lake.

Lady’s Island & The Japanese Bridge

Tucked away along the route is a secluded island accessible via a striking red Japanese footbridge. It’s a hidden pocket of tranquillity that feels entirely separate from the main house.

General Information

Address
Russborough House,
Russborough,
Blessington,
Co. Wicklow,
W91 W284,
Ireland

View on Google Maps

Website
https://www.russborough.ie

Opening Hours
9:00 AM until 5:00 PM.

Accessibility
Accessible routes and facilities.

Entry
€14.50 per person for the house, €6.50 per person for the park.

Parking
FREE

 
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