Photo: Ken Walsh

The gardens at Kilkenny’s Lyrath Estate, which will host the upcoming Hotel & Catering Review Gold Medal Awards, have been redesigned by Caragh Nurseries.

The revamp reflect the mix of old and new present at Lyrath Estate, featuring traditional urns, modern fibreglass planters, grape vines and pyramid-shaped trees. Contemporary bonsai formed trees welcome visitors at the new hotel entrance, while at the restaurant overlooking the mature parkland, a structured row of Catalpa bignonioides has been planted. In addition, beautiful planters holding vines add a rustic and unusual touch to the terrace, while yew pyramids lead the eye along the ivy-clad exterior of the old house and its stunning façade.

The intended overall effect is a haven for guests at the hotel, offering them a space to reflect and connect with nature.

Family-owned Caragh Nurseries, based in Kildare, have become one of the go-to experts for hotel garden design in Ireland, having previously developed the stunning spa gardens in Galgorm Resort and Spa in Antrim, as well as working on the Keadeen Hotel in Newbridge and the Westgrove in Clane. Designers Jo and Ian McGarry pride themselves on bespoke garden design, something that reflects the owners or users of the gardens.