Club Outing – Ducket’s Grove and Altamont

Duckett’s Grove: The 18th, 19th and early 20th century home of the Duckett family, was formerly at the centre of a 20,000 acre (8,093 hectares) estate that has dominated the Carlow landscape for over 300 years. Even in ruin, the surviving towers and turrets of Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens and Pleasure Grounds form a romantic profile making it one of the most photogenic historic buildings in the country. The walled gardens are a treat for macro lovers.

Location: Co. Carlow. Turn off the M9 at Junction 4 for Castledermot and Tullow. In Castledermot take a slight right on to the R418 and continue to Duckett’s Grove.

Car Parking: Free parking in Duckett’s Grove.

Altamont Gardens: A large and beautiful estate covering 16 hectares in total, Altamont Gardens is laid out in the style of William Robinson, which strives for ‘honest simplicity’. The design situates an excellent plant collection perfectly within the natural landscape.
For example, there are lawns and sculpted yews that slope down to a lake ringed by rare trees and rhododendrons. A fascinating walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen, sheltered by ancient oaks and flanked by huge stone outcrops, leads to the banks of the River Slaney. Visit in summer to experience the glorious perfume of roses and herbaceous plants in the air.
With their sensitive balance of formal and informal, nature and artistry, Altamont Gardens have a unique – and wholly enchanting – character.

There is a €2.00 pay and display car parking fee.

Near Ballon, signposted off the N80 & N81, between Tullow and Bunclody

Altamont Tullow Co. Carlow R93 N882

We will meet in Duckett’s Grove at 11.00 am.

For more details contact outings@offshoot.ie.

SAFETY ON OFFSHOOT OUTINGS AND EVENTS

It’s easy to become distracted when taking photographs. Use common sense, take responsibility for your own safety and then go shoot and have fun.