Killarney’s lost gardens set to be restored to their former splendour

A patchwork of paths and ornamental features, created in the 18th century during the heyday of formal gardening, has been discovered under layers of soil at famed Killarney House.

The gardens, leading from the centre of the top tourist town to the largest of the Killarney lakes, are to be restored with the restoration works leading to “a St Stephen’s Green-type” amenity.

Killarney House was part of a chateau which was once the seat of the Earls of Kenmare. Now in state ownership, it is being renovated with 35 acres of gardens being restored.