A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined offers a great insight into the restoration and transformation of the gardens at Sandbrook House, one of Ireland’s finest Queen Anne country houses. During this special evening on Thursday, 30th July, acclaimed plantsman and garden designer Arthur Shackleton will share the story behind the vision, creativity and careful planning that has shaped these beautiful gardens over the past ten years.
A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined offers a great insight into the restoration and transformation of the gardens at Sandbrook House, one of Ireland’s finest Queen Anne country houses. During this special evening on Thursday, 30th July, acclaimed plantsman and garden designer Arthur Shackleton will share the story behind the vision, creativity and careful planning that has shaped these beautiful gardens over the past ten years.
Set within the grounds of the beautiful Sandbrook House, owned by the Bielenberg family, the gardens have evolved through a thoughtful process that respects the property’s rich heritage. Ten years ago Bella Bielenberg began re-envisioning this garden – having always loved roses she wanted to create something romantic and timeless. Over the years the garden has gradually taken shape, filled with roses, pathways and brick spirals that symbolises eternity and enduring love. She has also created a symmetry that reflects the house, built in 1720 with a hope that the garden would feel as though it belonged naturally to the house.
Arthur will explore the inspiration behind the project, the challenges encountered along the way and the principles that have guided the creation of a garden that sits comfortably within its historic setting while looking firmly to the future.
Visitors attending the Carlow Garden Festival will also have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Sandbrook House and its gardens first-hand. Throughout the festival, from July 25th to August 2nd, the gardens will be open to pre-booked groups of five or more, with admission priced at just €5 per person, providing an excellent opportunity to discover one of County Carlow’s hidden garden treasures beyond the evening talk itself.
About Arthur Shackleton
Arthur has contributed to the design and maintenance of a wide variety of Irish gardens, large and small, including Ashford, Dromoland and Glin Castles, Lyons Demesne, Coolmore Stud and all of Sheik Mahomed’s Irish studfarms, Airfield House in Dundrum and Butler House in Kilkenny.
In 1999, Arthur transformed two derelict farm buildings and their accompanying land outside Abbeyleix, Co. Laois, into his own garden. At Fruitlawn Arthur grows a wide range of plants including a selection originally from his father, David Shackleton’s collection at Beech Park in Clonsilla. Fruitlawn has been called “enchanting” for its “billowing borders and quiet corners” by The Irish Garden Magazine, and receives visitors from around the world.
Explore Sandbrook House and Gardens
Sandbrook House and Gardens is a period Queen Anne style house set in twenty five acres of lush parkland in County Carlow. Within easy access to Dublin, this 18th century country manor has been lovingly restored by its owners, ensuring guests have a truly comfortable, memorable and relaxing stay. The gardens are nestled in the Irish countryside, situated within 25 acres of its own matured parkland and feature a fine display of roses and fruit trees, which remain in bloom well into the autumn.
Situated in its own grounds and set in romantic pastoral surroundings with views up to Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains, there are many beautiful and historic sights in the South East of Ireland, including Kilkenny, Waterford and Wexford.
Sandbrook is a family home, ensuring guests feel truly welcome during their stay offering guests both B&B and self-catering options for exclusive hire, for family parties of all ages and elegant intimate weddings. Accommodation is available for one, two or more nights during the Carlow Garden Festival at a rate of €200 per room (double/twin) B&B. To book contact Bella Bielenberg 00353 (0) 87 4309976
Venue: Sandbrook House, Castlegrace, Ballon, Co Carlow, R93 YK09
Date: 30 July 2026
Start Date: 30 July 2026
Start Time: 6:00 pm
End Date: 30 July 2026
End Time: 8:00 pm
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Admission: €20
Directions: Sandbrook House and Gardens, Castlegrace, Ballon, Co. Carlow R93 YK09
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