We made a return visit to Woodville Walled Garden last Thursday. Our lovely friend Dorothy volunteers her gardening skills there; and recently she has been working on the roses. Knowing how much I love roses, she messaged me to say how beautiful they are at the moment. 
Fergal and I had been saying for ages we would go, but every weekend is caught up; so on a warm June day, the children and I set off in the morning. It wasn’t as sunny as the day before, thankfully, or we would have been burnt to a crisp, as we spent hours in this hidden treasure near Loughrea, Co. Galway.
Marie (the head gardener), Dorothy and I firstly had a great chat, while drinking tea and eating cake in the stables, which have been converted into a little gift shop, tea rooms and museum. 
Then they gave us a tour of the garden, which is visually and fragrantly beautiful. A real feast for the eyes… For me, the roses were the star of the show, but there is so much to enjoy here: shrubs, fruit trees, herbaceous plants, abundant flower beds, archways, pond, doves… The boys and Grace played croquet on the croquet lawn, and James ran at speed up and down the pathways. Anna nestled in close to me and slept snuggled up in the sling.
I’m looking forward to visits throughout the year, as it has been planted to take advantage of all the seasons (even when we went for Snowdrop Weekend in February, there was so much to see)
What a really lovely day out in the most gorgeous of gardens.
gorgeous
What a beautiful spot. We’re going to Galway in a few weeks so we might take a spin out to the gardens. My kids always enjoy these sorts of places 🙂
How beautiful, great shots, Emily! I love, love, love roses too.
What a lovely spot! Reminds me of my ‘secret garden’. Wonderful photos too. If ever I’m over that way, I’ll be sure to check it out.
These beautiful pictures bring tears to my eyes. My mom grew up just down the road . She was major monahans sister
and I’ve been there many times!! We lost mom last June. How she would be THRILLED to see what’s become of what she called the “Donahue” place. Many many thanks for sharing this bit of heaven. Kathy Connell
Kathy, I’m delighted it brought back some great memories! So sorry to hear of your moms passing RIP x
Sadhbh, very like your secret garden! Well worth a visit if you ever are en route to Galway 🙂
Thanks Joanna! Xx
Wonderful Emily, lovely pictures, thank you.
Woodville truly is a secret treasure in the West. The perfect place to spend an afternoon enjoying this lovely space. X