Kylemore Abbey marked a special milestone in the story of its Victorian Walled Garden with an exclusive after-hours event celebrating 25 years of restoration, growth and stewardship. Bringing together gardening enthusiasts and local community groups, the after-hours event highlighted not only the remarkable transformation of the historic garden but also the rich biodiversity that surrounds the Victorian Estate.
Guests enjoyed a warm welcome in the Garden Tea House, where they were greeted with garden-inspired cordials and seasonal canape?s before an opening address celebrating the dedication and vision that has shaped the garden over the past quarter century.
The evening featured two guided experiences led by Kylemore Abbey's Head Gardener, Anja Gohlke, and Biodiversity Officer, Inez Streefkerk.
The guests explored the incredible feat that was the restoration of the Victorian Walled Garden, learning how it went from near ruin to once again become a thriving productive and ornamental garden, while also discovering the unique native flora and fauna that make the wider Kylemore landscape such an important haven for biodiversity.
As the tours concluded, guests gathered once again in the Garden Tea House to enjoy freshly prepared herbal teas made from herbs grown in the Victorian Walled Garden, accompanied by homemade cookies. Each attendee received a commemorative gift bag containing Kylemore seeds, a floral card designed by Sr. Karol, garden information and a selection of Kylemore treats, encouraging them to continue the spirit of gardening and conservation at home.
A highlight of the evening was the wonderful support from local community organisations who joined Kylemore Abbey in celebrating this important anniversary.
The event welcomed members of local gardening clubs, community gardening groups, Men's Sheds, Women's Sheds, Tidy Town groups and other community organisations from across Connemara, reflecting the shared commitment to preserving heritage, protecting biodiversity and fostering connections through gardening.
Speaking after the event, the Kylemore Abbey team expressed their appreciation to everyone who attended and helped make the celebration such a memorable occasion.
"The restoration of the Victorian Walled Garden has always been about more than gardens alone. It is a story of heritage, education, biodiversity and community. It was a privilege to celebrate this milestone alongside so many people who share our passion for the natural world and who continue to support Kylemore Abbey."
The evening served as both a celebration of the past 25 years and an inspiration for the future, reaffirming Kylemore Abbey's ongoing commitment to conservation, sustainable gardening and community engagement.
