Once overgrown and forgotten, now unearthed and restored...
The Lost Garden Trail, located within the 400-acre Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch, was discovered during the 2018 opening preparations. The team at Montalto Estate uncovered stone slabs in an unexpected area, which led to a forgotten garden. With the arrival of 2020, the team took the opportunity to revisit the area, and continue the exploration of what else was still to be uncovered.
As a result, the team at Montalto Estate, working alongside a highly respected historic gardens consultant, has breathed life back into the garden. They’ve restored this historic setting, whilst adding sympathetic, contemporary elements. The Lost Garden Trail experience provides an understanding of what the area would have looked like back in 1912, when the Estate was owned by Lord & Lady Clanwilliam. The winding pathways, and diverse planting and features, will tell stories of days gone by which will help visitors step back in time, and experience a little of the tranquillity from that period.
David Wilson, Managing Director: “Our aim at Montalto Estate has always focussed on providing a top-class visitor attraction which enhances the visitor experience in the region. With support from Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme, we have breathed life back into this wonderful area.”
The Lost Garden Trail opened on 31st March 2023