Doneraile Court & Wildlife Park
Doneraile Court is the stunning centrepiece of one of Ireland’s most beautiful estates. Located on the banks of the Awbeg river in north Co. Cork, the house dates from the 1720s, when it was built by Arthur St. Leger, the first Viscount Doneraile and father of the renowned Lady Freemason.
The house was modified extensively in the 19th century by later generations of St. Legers, creating the imposing and characterful building that can be enjoyed today. The kitchen wing from this period now serves as the home of the Doneraile Court tearooms and is a perfect way to start or finish your visit.
The St. Leger family remained in residence until 1969, when the property was sold to the Land Commission. The house then passed to the care of Irish Georgian Society, before coming to the stewardship of the Office of Public Works in 1994.
The surrounding Doneraile Park comprises approximately 166 hectares and is an outstanding example of an 18th century landscaped park in the ‘Capability Brown’ style. Mature groves of deciduous trees, several restored water features and a number of deer herds can be viewed along the many pathways within the park. The pathways are generally accessible for people with special needs.
The estate and surrounding village has a strong literary tradition, incorporating figures such as Edmund Spenser, who immortalised the river Awbeg in his poem The Faerie Queene, Elizabeth Bowen, and Canon Sheehan. There are many great cafes in the locality including Townhouse Doneraile Interiors and Café run by award-winning design team Myra Ryall and husband Ray O’Callaghan who take great pride in their business set in Doneraile. Here you will find a unique enterprise that is Townhouse Doneraile incorporating Townhouse Cafe and Townhouse Interiors.
The house and park is opened to the public following completion of restoration works, there is a tea rooms onsite (open 7 days a week) and New Large Children's Playground. There are a number of free guided tours throughout the year, tours can be arranged for groups and visitors email: guides@doneraile.ie.
The Vienna Woods Hotel & Villas are located just under an hours drive from the wonderful Doneraile Park and house. Doneraile can be accessed easily as it is just a 7km drive off the main Cork-Limerick N20 road. Why not include this amazing location in your itinerary when staying with us?
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Doneraile Wildlife Park is free to visit during the opening times listed below.
Summer
Monday – Friday 08:00 – 20:00
Saturday – Sunday 09:00 – 20:00
Bank Holidays 09:00 – 20:00
Winter
Monday – Friday 08:00 – 17:00
Saturday – Sunday 09:00 – 17:00
Bank Holidays 09:00 – 17:00
For more information click HERE.
