Shopping Guide: Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum

Woodstock Gardens - A Shopper's Guide

Woodstock Gardens: A Shopper's Guide

Why You Should Visit

  • For a relaxing escape: You'll find this location ideal for a peaceful walk, a picnic, or simply getting away from it all. It's a place where you can experience tranquility.
  • Stunning Gardens and Grounds: The gardens are well-maintained and expansive, perfect for strolling. You can expect to find beautiful tree-lined walks, avenues of huge trees, walled gardens, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Historical Significance: The skeletal remains of the manor house offer a glimpse into the past, adding an element of history to your visit.
  • Family-Friendly Amenities: The location offers a playground for children, making it a great spot for families. Picnic areas with large benches are available near the car park.
  • Variety of Walking Routes: Several well-posted loop walks through the forest and gardens are available, catering to different preferences for walks.
  • Gardening Enthusiasts Welcome: The garden section boasts many popular and exotic plants on display. Keep an eye out for a unique tree with branches displaying two different types of leaves.
  • Convenient Facilities: On-site toilets are available in the car park.
  • Seasonal Tea Room & Ice Cream: In season you may find a small cafe or tea room, offering tea, coffee and small selection of cakes. An ice cream hut is sometimes present in the summer.
  • Restorative Power of Nature: The gardens and grounds are noted as having a restorative effect, perfect for de-stressing and reconnecting with nature.
  • Exceptional Customer Service: You might encounter helpful staff such as the shuttle driver, Michael, who can provide assistance and information about the estate.
  • Easy to get to: The drive through the little town to get to the gardens is very pretty.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

  • Car Park Fee: Be aware that there is a €5 entry fee per car, payable upon exit. However, entry is free on Wednesdays during Summer.
  • Limited Cafe Options: The cafe has tea/coffee and a small selection of cakes, which may not suit those looking for a more extensive selection.
  • Potential for Crowds: While generally a peaceful place, the presence of a playground and family-friendly amenities can mean more activity, especially if you want an extremely quiet experience.
  • Seasonal Closures: The ice cream hut and possibly the tea room may be closed during certain times of the year (e.g., April).