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The Walled Garden Helen's Bay

The Walled Garden, 47 Craigdarragh Road, Helen's Bay, County Down, BT19 1UB
A view from old espaliered apple and pear trees

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About

The Walled Garden,Helen's Bay, was built in 1886 by Belfast cotton and muslin manufacturer,Thomas Workman, to supply fresh fruit and vegetables for his household in nearby, Lanyon designed, Craigdarragh House.

We bought this "secret" kitchen garden at the end of 2006, when it was completely overgrown by invasive weeds and saplings and was in a terrible state of disrepair, although oozing with potential. 

Planning approval for the complete restoration of the stables; the gardeners' cottages and the greenhouses has now been granted, so we can soon realise our dream of  sharing the Walled Garden with the local and wider community 

We are not open to the public at the minute, however we open by appointment for our creative craft and health & wellbeing experiences, as well as special private events

All  profits are reinvested into our restoration project so everyone is involved in making a difference!

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Guide dogs permitted

Establishment Features

  • Groups accepted
  • Guided Tours Available
  • Prior Booking Required
  • Toilets

Event Facilities

  • Booking Required

Parking & Transport

  • On site parking

Guide Prices

Prices differ depending on the type of experience - they generally range from £25 - £75

Events

Sunday, 13th September 2026 - Sunday, 13th September 2026

Weave Willow Swallows and Swifts in the Walled GardenStep into the heritage beauty of Old Mill House for our full day Willow Swallows and Swifts Workshop in the Walled Garden with talented local artist Heather McDermott. In this relaxing and creative workshop, you'll learn to craft elegant willow swallow and swift sculptures.
more info

Saturday, 19th September 2026 - Saturday, 19th September 2026

Botanical Watercolour Illustration at the Walled GardenJoin us for a full day, botanical watercolour illustration workshop and be inspired by the beauty of summer at the Walled Garden.
more info

Thursday, 1st October 2026 - Thursday, 1st October 2026

Autumn Wreath Workshop in the Walled GardenAs the seasons change and the first leaves begin to fall, we're celebrating the beauty of autumn with a very special Autumn Wreath Workshop in the Walled Garden.
more info

Sunday, 4th October 2026 - Sunday, 4th October 2026

Make a Traditional Besom Broom in the Walled GardenJoin us for a hands-on, heritage-inspired workshop where you'll create your very own besom broom and explore the folklore, tradition, and seasonal use surrounding this tool.
more info

Saturday, 7th November 2026 - Saturday, 7th November 2026

Botanical Watercolour Illustration at the Walled GardenAs Autumn settles over the Walled Garden, the changing colours, seed heads and fading blooms offer endless inspiration for artists and nature lovers alike.
more info

Sunday, 15th November 2026 - Sunday, 15th November 2026

Sunday, 29th November 2026 - Sunday, 29th November 2026

Weave a Willow Stag's Head in the Walled GardenJoin us in the Walled Garden for a fun, relaxed, willow weaving workshop and create your own Stag's head to add a rustic touch of seasonal charm to your home or garden... just in time for Christmas!
more info

Thursday, 19th November 2026 - Thursday, 19th November 2026

Saturday, 21st November 2026 - Saturday, 21st November 2026

Thursday, 26th November 2026 - Thursday, 26th November 2026

Saturday, 28th November 2026 - Saturday, 28th November 2026

Thursday, 3rd December 2026 - Thursday, 3rd December 2026

Friday, 4th December 2026 - Friday, 4th December 2026

Saturday, 5th December 2026 - Saturday, 5th December 2026

Christmas Wreath Workshops in the Walled Garden, Helen's BayEmbrace the magic of the season and learn the art of Christmas wreath making in the enchanting setting of the Walled Garden!
more info

Sunday, 6th December 2026 - Sunday, 6th December 2026

Promotional poster for willow Christmas decorations featuring willow decorations and event details.Willow Christmas Decorations in the Walled GardenGet into the festive spirit and join us in the Walled Garden for a relaxed, creative day of willow weaving with local artist Heather McDermott. Learn how to craft beautiful rustic Christmas decorations from stars and reindeer to little trees and bells … perfect for adding a handmade touch of…
more info

Add The Walled Garden Helen's Bay to your Itinerary

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Map & Directions

Opening Times

* Open by appointment only for our creative craft and health & wellbeing experiences as well as special private events

What's Nearby

  1. Situated in Helen's Bay, Grey Point Fort is one of the best preserved early 20th century…

    1.01 miles away
  2. Beautiful sandy beach with excellent facilities, all within twenty minutes drive of…

    1.04 miles away
  3. With tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall,…

    1.16 miles away
  1. Celebrate the history of invention and innovation through engineering, design, and…

    1.95 miles away
  2. Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage…

    2.02 miles away
  3. An enchanting park leading onto the North Down Coastal Path.

    2.8 miles away
  4. A lovely park perfect for families located only a short distance from Holywood.

    2.9 miles away
  5. A seafront facility perfect for all the family.

    2.91 miles away
  6. Holywood Priory is an intersting and historic site close to the bustling town of Holywood.

    3.32 miles away
  7. Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal…

    3.31 miles away
  8. Holywood Motte is an Anglo-Norman castle mound, which probably had a ditch round its base…

    3.34 miles away
  9. Founded in 558AD the main body of the building dates from 1830's, the tower from 15th…

    3.38 miles away
  10. Holywood's most well known feature is the town's Maypole, the only surviving in Ireland.…

    3.46 miles away
  11. This impressive building was built for the Hon Robert Edward Ward and his family in 1852.…

    3.58 miles away
  12. Visit North Down Museum to explore the fascinating saga of the North Down area from the…

    3.61 miles away
  13. Stroll through this beautiful wooded wonderland which is an exhilarating experience…

    3.68 miles away
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