Devonshire delight

IT is not necessarily true that familiarity dulls the perception of excellence.

Some things would be endlessly enjoyable; such as having dinner out every evening in a five star hotel; or being able to change the car each year. Similarly, some places never lose their thrilling appeal, however many times you visit.

The Hampton Palace Flower Show is a good example; or indeed visiting the beautiful island of Madeira during the month of March. I could also add some of the fairytale castles and lush parklands found around the four provinces, and in particular the historic Lismore Castle and gardens in Co Waterford. Encapsulated within this familiar and much visited landmark are centuries of history-in art, architecture, gardening, and social fashions.

The reason I would want to add Lismore Castle gardens to my list are varied and many, but chiefly because I sometimes feel the need to visit gardens of contrast; old against new, form versus content. Sometimes I want to stand not in small spaces, but where vast lawns are flung wide so as to receive the tread of a regular public, and others where tiny paths lead to blissful, tranquil places.

At Lismore I can find all of these open and secret places, but come St. Patrick’s Day, I will surely find quite a bit more for the Immrama Festival Committee will once again host its annual fundraising event ‘Devonshire Day’ in the castle and its grounds.

Devonshire Day is now an annual traditional at the castle; guests are served Devonshire Cream Tea by the Duke of Devonshire’s butler in the Pugin room and are then offered a guided tour of the castle gardens (set in seven acres within the 17th century outer defensive walls with spectacular views of the castle and countryside).

Both the upper and lower gardens are worth seeing just now, especially when under the expert guidance of the Head Gardener, Chris Tull, an opportunity not normally available to visitors.

Commenting on the launch of Devonshire Day, Mr Jan Rotte, event manager of Immrama, said, “We are delighted to once again announce that St. Patrick’s Day is the date for Devonshire Day at Lismore Castle. The occasion really is a wonderful way to enjoy some Devonshire Cream Tea in the most picturesque surroundings. We understand that Devon has recently applied for Protected Geographical Status for Devonshire Cream Tea, but we are sure it will always be available to be served at the Irish home of the Duke of Devonshire and for guests to the castle to enjoy each year at Devonshire Day. ”

This event is ‘sold out’ each year so I recommend early booking. The Immrama Committee who are hosting the event tell me that the proceeds will help fund the 2013 festival programme. Tours take place at 11.30am, 12.40pm, 1.50pm, 3.00pm and 4.10pm. Entrance is by ticket only (children under 10 go free but must be pre-registered) and are available from the Immrama office and Lismore Heritage Centre at €20. Contact 058-53803 or facebook.com/lismoreimmrama