Huge conservation project will restore Castle Ward landscape

Huge conservation project will restore Castle Ward landscape

7 December 2016

WORK is underway on an ambitious three-year conservation project to restore the iconic Temple Water structure in the grounds of the sweeping Castle Ward estate.

In addition to restoring the structure, surrounding paths and viewing points which have succumbed to weathering will be restored, and several ‘lost’ historic paths reopened, allowing visitors to explore the reinstated steps on the Yew Tree Terraces. Access to the walled garden will be increased and a plan developed for its future.

The National Trust started the ambitious project in October at the man-made landscape of the Temple Water. Designed by the Ward family, it is regarded as one of the most important late 17th and early 18th century gardens to survive in Ireland. 

“Over the years the design of the landscape has become obscured by self-seeded trees, poor drainage and other changes,” said the Trust’s general manager, Jonathan Clarke.

“As a conservation charity, we are committed to protecting our special places for ever and for everyone and are restoring this hidden part of Castle Ward to enhance visitor enjoyment and understanding of the area.

“We anticipate the project will take three years and will include improving access to the Temple which was built in about 1740 and improvements to the parkland that will open up views of both Audley’s Castle and Strangford Lough.”

Other features planned for restoration include the crumbling sides of the Temple Water which have been weakened by tree roots over the years. 

Improvements are also planned to improve access around the lake by reinstalling former pathways and steps, repairing drains, creating pockets of natural biodiversity, removing some inappropriate trees, pruning others and planting new trees in locations based on early demesne maps.  Enhanced interpretation will also be installed to enable everyone to share in the remarkable story of the Ward family and their grand designs.

A team of National Trust specialists including curators, archaeologists, historic gardens advisors and interpretation designers will be on hand to provide advice and work together to bring Temple Water back to the late 17th, early 18th century design. 

The final picture will be a grand formal and unexpected statement in the midst of rolling landscape; a landscape which will invite visitors to take a stroll, have a picnic, relax with family and friends and then leave with special memories they can share. 

Anyone who would like to help the restoration of the significant site by offering financial support or through volunteering is asked to e-mail castleward@nationaltrust.org.uk.