Wild by Design: Planting Inspired by Nature with Noel Kingsbury

Noel Kingsbury is a leading authority on planting design, ecology and sustainable horticulture. Based in Portugal, he is an internationally respected writer, educator, and consultant whose work has significantly influenced contemporary approaches to naturalistic planting.

He has authored and co-authored numerous books, many of which explore the intersection of ecology and garden design, and has collaborated with Dutch plantsman Piet Oudolf on a number of books. Noel’s latest project has been designing the planting for a new garden in Regent’s Park in London, in memory of the late British Queen.

Take time to explore the unique charm and layered history of Shankill Castle, one of Ireland’s most atmospheric and intriguing estates. A visit to Shankill Castle offers a great experience combining history, art and nature and is home to the artist and painter Elizabeth Cope. Originally a Butler tower-house, the castle was remodelled in the early 18th century and remains a private residence to this day, offering visitors a rare and authentic glimpse into centuries of Irish life.

Guided House Tours on the day will uncover fascinating stories of the families who lived here, the architectural evolution of the building, and the creative spirit that continues to shape Shankill today. You’ll step through elegant drawing rooms, art-filled halls and historic bedrooms that reflect both tradition and contemporary flair.

In the garden, there are remnants of eighteenth-century lime allées, nineteenth-century laurel lawns, some Victorian favourites such as the now gigantic Sequoias, and twentieth century self-sown ash trees. The moated garden, once a rose garden, then forgotten and planted with Sitka spruces, is now a spring garden. The graveyard and ruined church bloom all year round. The Victorian walled garden has a charming apple tree arch under-planted with red tulips, and some antique goblet-shaped pear trees trained against a mellow brick wall.

And when it’s time to relax, the Coach House Café awaits. Set in Shankill Castle’s historic stable yard, the Coach House Café offers a farm-to-fork experience with light lunches, homemade cakes, artisan coffee and teas in a relaxed, rustic setting with indoor and outdoor seating. Everything is made from scratch with seasonal ingredients grown in their walled garden and organic farm, or sourced from local producers. Artwork by the Irish artist Elizabeth Cope is on display, and a selection of jams and juices is available to purchase.