Montalto Estate

Overview

2h
For the first time in its history, this mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings, is open to visit. Nestled in the picturesque County Down countryside, Montalto is a privately-owned demesne steeped in history dating back to the 1600s. It is famously the site of ‘The Battle of Ballynahinch’ which took place during the Irish rebellion in 1798. It is also home to an exotic plant collection initially created by ‘The Father of Irish Gardening’, Sir Arthur Rawdon. Montalto Estate aims to reconnect visitors with nature through access to a range of captivating gardens and beautiful walks and trails. The visitor experience includes: public access to the estate’s beautiful gardens along with unique and surprising garden features; historic walks and trails; and an exciting play area where children can explore, learn and wonder at their natural surroundings. A purpose built centre, designed in keeping with the look and feel of the estate, includes a welcome area featuring interpretation of the estate’s history; a stylish café offering flavoursome and beautifully presented food; and a shop that offers a mix of estate produce, local craft products and many other unique and exceptionally designed items. The beautiful gardens include an Alpine Garden, a Winter Garden, a Cutting Garden, a Walled Garden, a Formal Garden and the Orchard situated within a wildflower meadow. Both the Winter Garden and Alpine Garden will always be accessible whilst the other gardens will be accessible whenever possible as they are working gardens. Four champion trees are located around the lake and the pinetum and over the past three years over 30,000 trees have been planted here. Active families will enjoy the Woodland Trail and low wood. The impressive purpose built tree house, which was handcrafted onsite, features rope bridges, monkey bars and treetop views kids of all ages will enjoy. Mini explorers can enjoy the smaller tree house and natural play area.

Opening times

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday Closed
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Facilities

  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Country Houses & Gardens
  • Walking and Hiking
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Parks
  • Mature visitors
  • Nature Lovers
  • Adventure Seekers
  • Historical
  • Animal Encounters
  • Heritage Sites
  • Solo Visitors
  • Retail On Site
  • Wifi
  • Food On Site
  • Toilets
  • Guide Dogs Welcomed
  • Car Parking Available
  • Guided Tours
  • Credit Card Accepted
  • Covid-19 Guidelines
  • Paid Visit
  • Families
  • Friends
  • Kids
  • Craft Experiences
Entry to Trails & Gardens.
By opening Montalto to the public, we wanted to create a place for active families to go: a place where children and adults alike can be inspired, and a place where imagination can take over.

After much careful thought, incredible attention to detail, and an unwavering focus on ensuring that nature remained at the heart of everything, we feel we have created somewhere very special, with lots of wonderful and unique features, that you and your family will love.

Contact details

  • Montalto Estate
  • Spa Road
  • Ballynahinch
  • Northern Ireland
  • BT248PT
02897566100
info@montaltoestate.com