It was Sunday last when I visited Corkagh Park Demesne with The [Non] Gardeners Group that I run and if I’m honest, I was very aware that I had passed this park, sited just off the Naas Road Clondalkin, many times and had never popped in. For that alone, my love of the great outdoors and maybe to an extent for the historical gardens I have designed, I most probably deserve a wee kick in the bottom.
Opened to the public in 1986, the 120 hectare Demesne dates back to 1650 with Corkagh House being constructed there between 1702 and 1714. And though the original grounds, would have contained water gardens, rose gardens, walled and kitchen gardens, to name but a few – through its evolution, there of course have been changes.
Of note in the estates cycle is it’s connection to The Titanic and how it did change the course of the estates future. That however and it’s the life story is one far better told by the staff of South Dublin County Council, namely Máire Ní Dhomhnaill, Joe Hickey and David Cotter who were ever so lovely in their welcoming of the garden group.
With that in mind, Dublin’s garden radio show and podcast, The Sodshow will air a Corkagh Park Special this Friday [part1] 12th October and next Friday [part 2] Corkagh Park Demesne 19th October.
In the meantime, be you a garden designer, a lover of the great outdoors or just looking for a nice spot to bring your picnic for a days outing, a visit there is highly recommended. From the fishing lakes, pet farms and playgrounds – to the history, the rose gardens and nature walks ~ there is literally something there for everyone.
Further info and listen details:
- Sodshow.com
- Facebook.com/TheSodshow
- Twitter @Sodshow
Further information from South Dublin County Council:
- Website – Corkagh Park- South Dublin Co Co
- Twitter – @SDublinCoCo
- Facebook – South Dublin County Coucil
- Recommended Reading: The House of Corkagh by Joe Devine