Well signed off the main Galway to Clifden road, these beautiful Celtic themed gardens near Oughterard have long been a favourite destination for families, school outings, active retired, tour groups and more. Others simply drop in to enjoy a wholesome and delicious bite at the Garden Café.
Throughout the 11 acres of wildflower meadows, ancient woodland, Celtic Gardens, fairy fort, Roundhouse, crannóg, and the largest sundial in Ireland, there’s so much here for the whole family to enjoy - exploring, playing, discovering, learning and, of course, eating...
With huge picture windows overlooking the outdoor patio, where you can dine when the weather is fine, the Garden Café offers simple but delicious food. Chef Aitor Escudero serves up delicious fresh food cooked every day with the best ingredients, using herbs and edible flowers from the garden and fresh local produce.
Burnt Aubergine on Harissa may perhaps be the hot dish of the day or choose from a Peach & Mozzarella Salad or Lemon & Dill Cured Salmon. Children will be happy with a ham and cheese rollup or penne pasta with tomato sauce and cheese. Of course, there are great home bakes, including delicious scones with jam & cream, and perhaps a luscious lemon polenta cake, fudgy chocolate brownie or walnut & carrot cake, which is nutty and moist – perfect to enjoy with good coffee, tea or herbal tea, or perhaps a refreshing Elderflower pressé. There is something for everyone and every effort is made to cater for vegetarians, vegans and those with special dietary needs.
There is so much for kids to enjoy at Brigit’s Garden which makes for a perfect family day out. Younger children will love the Nature Detectives trail and older children can go on an Earth Quest and solve fun challenges around the gardens. There is plenty more to explore in the fairy fort, natural play area with a tall lookout climbing tower, willow tunnels, slide and sand-pit and it’s always fun to stop in at the Fairy Village.
Check out the Garden Shop before you leave as it has some unusual items on the shelves that reflect the philosophy of the garden, including Celtic & unique gifts, books, home furnishings, eco products, handmade & local foods. Good toilets too, including baby changing facilities, and environmentally friendly waste disposal.
Special events are held during the year – Hallowe’en celebrations, Santa’s Christmas Magic, Easter egg hunt, forest school-inspired summer camps, forest bathing walks and more.
And if you want a magical space for a fairy tale wedding, baby naming or christening ceremony, or your child’s birthday party, Brigit’s Garden is sure to make the day memorable.
NEED TO KNOW:
Garden Café open daily in high season 10.30am-5pm (see website for full details). Soup, hot dishes, salads & specials 12pm-3.30pm. A la carte. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free & dairy-free options available. Toilets & public areas wheelchair accessible. 2 Go Cup Deposit & Return Scheme. Seats 50 (+ 35 outdoors), also private room, roundhouse and marquee available for private hire and events.
Gardens, Visitor Centre & Gift Shop open daily in high season 10am-5.30pm (see website for full details). Children welcome; children's natural playground. Dogs on a lead welcome.
Closed end Dec - end Jan. Weddings. Kids birthday parties. Groups catered for by arrangement any time of year. Discounts with Brigit’s Garden membership. MasterCard, Visa.
