Once the home of kings, Borris House offers a unique glimpse into its ancient history.
Borris House, the ancestral home of the McMorrough Kavanaghs, kings of Leinster, is one of the most beautiful Irish country houses with a rich history spanning centuries.
Borris is one of the few Irish estates that can trace its history back to the Royal families of ancient Ireland. Borris House became the Kavanagh’s primary residence in 1570. Over time, the present-day Borris demesne landscape slowly evolved from a formal Baroque landscape of axial approach avenues and formal gardens, to a demesne parkland landscape. Serpentine avenues were designed to capture views and prospects with lawns, tree plantations and a circular road around the perimeter.
Now surrounded by 650 acres of lush woodland and gardens, it has a secluded, otherworldly feel that transports visitors back in time and is the perfect venue for discovery. There are hundreds of years of history to unravel and the opportunity to hear about some of the family’s most interesting ancestors including Arthur McMorrough Kavanagh and his mother Lady Harriet.
Borris House and Gardens
The Estate
Explore the grounds of the estate taking in Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow Valley; views that have been preserved by the family for centuries. Stroll along the woodland paths, enjoy some of the beautiful specimen trees, view the original Stew Pond and on your way take in the original Victorian laundry, the recently restored granary and the 18th century Ice House.
The Gardens
The Lace Garden which is set within the walls of the original laundry green illustrates the fascinating story of Borris Lace and Lady Harriet Kavanagh through its predominantly white colour palette, lace inspired flowers, sculptures and stylised planting. Visitors can also avail of a tour of Borris House and the private Chapel of St. Moling and learn more about this fascinating estate and the people who lived and worked there.
The Store at Borris House sells local crafts, jewellery, ceramics, leather goods and textiles and is located at the front gate entrance. Check the website for precise opening times. Borris House is the venue for the Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas.
Facilities
- Toilets
- Guided tours of house, chapel and gardens
- Car park
- Seasonal nature trails
- Restricted wheelchair and pram access
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Opening Times
Check website for opening times
ADMISSION:
Admission fee applies
DIRECTIONS:
In the centre of Borris Town, directly opposite the Step House Hotel
