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IRD Duhallow Walking and Social Club Visits: Annes Grove Gardens
By DENIS JUSTICE Rural Community Health Worker
On September 21st, 2023, enjoying unseasonably lovely weather, members of the IRD Duhallow Walking and Social Club set out for a day of exploration and discovery at Annesgrove Gardens. Led by Denis Justice, the IRD Duhallow Rural Community Health Worker (RCHW), this outing not only provided a rejuvenating escape into nature but also unveiled a rich tapestry of history dating back centuries.
Annes Grove, an historic estate located near Castletownroche has a history that spans centuries. The estate was previously known as Ballyhimmock and was acquired by William Grove around 1626, marking the beginning of its remarkable journey.
In 1792, the estate found itself under the stewardship of Arthur Grove Annesley (1774-1849), who inherited it from an aunt by marriage. She was an heiress to the Grove family, and it was through this inheritance that the estate’s name was changed to Annes grove, merging the two family names.
The estate’s connection to the Grove and Annesley families is a fascinating chapter in its history. Arthur Grove Annesley’s uncle, Francis Charles Annesley, 1st Earl Annesley of Castlewellan in County Down, married Mary Grove. She inherited the estate from her father, further entwining the Annesley and Grove legacies with the land that is now known as Annes grove Gardens.
In 2015 Annes Grove House and Garden was donated to the state by the Annesley family since then the Office of Public Works has been diligently carrying out extensive work on the house, outbuildings, and gardens at Annes grove. This ongoing effort ensures that this historic estate remains a place of beauty and historical significance for generations to come.
As the group embarked on their guided tour of Annes grove Gardens, they ventured into a world steeped in history.
The main house, designed in the Queen Anne style, is a testament to the architectural elegance of the 18th century. Surrounding the main house, the group enjoyed an array of enchanting features, including pergolas, a lily pond, a Victorian stone fernery river garden, a rockery, and a wild water garden. Each element contributes to the garden’s rich tapestry, creating an atmospheric and captivating setting.
The oldest part of the gardens, the Walled Garden, was originally laid out in the 18th century, bearing witness to centuries of horticultural care and craftsmanship.
Further exploration led them to the Woodlands Garden, where some of the earliest rhododendrons introduced to Ireland can be found. These gardens, with their vibrant blooms and lush greenery, are a testament to the enduring love and dedication of those who have tended to this natural treasure over the years.
After a day of exploration and learning, the group wrapped up their visit to Annes grove Gardens and made their way to the nearby town of Mallow. Where, they enjoyed a well-deserved lunch at Juniper Restaurant, capping off a day filled with camaraderie and cherished memories.
