We were driving along and saw a sign to Gort nature reserve so decided to take a look. Our surprise... read more
We were driving along and saw a sign to Gort nature reserve so decided to take a look. Our surprise... read more
A lovely place for a stroll, and the tree and exhibit based on the old home of Lady Gregory that... read more
Crisp Autumn day, clear skies, a walk down the paths, through the colourful leaves to a picturesque lake - absolutely beautiful.
Perfect for couples, families,dog walking, picnics or just catching a moment of calm to yourself in the midst of nature.
What a gorgeous location.
Coole Park is an ideal visitor attraction, catering for people who love literature and history, and those who enjoy walking in beautiful woods, in a walled garden and along the edges of a lake. The coffee in the cafe was excellent. The visitor centre is informative, with an excellent exhibit telling the story of the place through the eyes of Lady Gregory's granddaughter. You can watch a 30-minute film about the history of the place: fascinating and beautifully done. The autograph tree in the walled garden, which includes the initials of George Bernard Shaw, amongst others, is wonderful. For further explorations of WB Yeats' life and work, Thor Ballylee is only a few miles away. A great day - and no entrance fee. Can't recommend it enough.
We had a great day here from the picnic on arrival, to see the exhibition to a beautiful walk, a truly great family day out, with amazing scenery in the woods, by the water and in the Garden, it will live long in the memory.
If you want to chill-out, here is the place. I loved the autograph tree and museum with so much history and personal family info. There i a lot of space to explore. The cafe is also delightful with very fresh foods and a variety of hot & cold drinks. Highly recommended.
Coole is lovely for a stroll in the mornings. I always go "off track" and walk along the turlough (flood permitting!) and take in the sights down along there, love when the swans are there, so peaceful. Tea Room is usually good although it is only open at weekends from end of Sept to March (I think).
Cooke Park is one of the most important sites in Irish literature, thanks to the nihilism of the 1940's Irish Government, the original manor was torn down and all that is left is the foundations.
There is a small exhibition, the DVD of Lady Gregory's life shown in the exhibition centre is good but all in all, it's not a fitting testament to the life of this most extraordinary of people.
As we ambled around the Park, all I could feel was a sense of sadness that after all this woman did for Ireland, that within a short time of her death, her lovely house and contents was eviscerated.
There are some nice walks around the Park but that's about it other than a small cafe, where we had some tea and cake, which was quite good.
But a place of real sadness for what might have been.