Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum, and Gardens is set to welcome visitors with an exciting lineup of spring and summer events, along with new developments that enhance the experience of this historic site. As the seasons change, the estate comes to life with vibrant floral displays, tranquil lakeside views, and the grandeur of its striking Gothic Revival architecture. Nestled in the heart of County Wexford, Johnstown Castle offers a breathtaking blend of history, nature, and culture, making it an ideal destination for exploration and relaxation.
Irish Heritage Trust General Manager Matt Wheeler is delighted to announce a diverse calendar of events catering to all interests. From jazz concerts and traditional workshops to an Easter bunny trail and an expert-led talk on the Wexford Lock-Out Dispute of 1911, visitors can look forward to a dynamic mix of entertainment, history, and interactive experiences. Popular annual events continue to attract large crowds, and guests are encouraged to plan ahead to make the most of their visit. For those seeking a quieter experience, the estate remains open daily for self-guided and guided exploration options.
Under the stewardship of the Irish Heritage Trust, Johnstown Castle continues to evolve, with ongoing conservation efforts ensuring its preservation for future generations. Since 2019, significant projects have been completed, including the redevelopment of the sunken garden, the restoration of the walled garden’s herbaceous border, and the planting of 6,000 native trees—90% of which originated from the estate itself. The castle’s roof, including the turrets, east and west wings, and main entrance, has also been restored, further enhancing the site’s architectural integrity. Looking ahead to 2025, additional projects promise to enrich the visitor experience even further.
This year’s event schedule offers a variety of engaging activities. Families can embark on an Easter Trail from April 12 to April 27, following clues around the castle grounds in a fun-filled adventure. Evening bat walks, beginning on April 24, provide a unique opportunity to experience the estate’s nocturnal wildlife, guided by bat conservationist Harm Deenen. Participants will learn about the various bat species residing on the estate, explore their habitats, and use bat detectors to identify them by their calls.
On April 26 at 11 a.m., a talk on Rural Electrification will delve into the transformative impact of electricity on Ireland’s rural communities. Historian Rosemary Hartigan will explore the role of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association in promoting electrification and discuss how the introduction of electricity revolutionised life in Irish homes and farms.
Additional highlights include a stool-making workshop where participants will craft traditional three- or four-legged creepie stools using traditional chair-making techniques and hand tools. On May 17, the Wexford Marathon Club will return for the fifth annual Wexford Festival of Running, featuring race distances of 100km, 50km, 25km, and 10km, each with designated time limits to challenge participants of all levels.
An educational talk by Mylo Miller will shed light on the Wexford Lock-Out Dispute of 1911. Music lovers can look forward to the highly anticipated Jazz at Johnstown festival, returning in 2025 for its fifth annual edition from June 20 to June 22, featuring over thirty of Ireland’s finest jazz musicians performing across three days and two nights.
A series of outdoor movie nights will bring cinematic magic to Johnstown Castle, with screenings set against the stunning backdrop of the castle. Visitors can enjoy iconic films under the stars, including The Bodyguard on August 15, Mamma Mia on August 16, Grease on September 5, and Bridesmaids on September 6, creating unforgettable summer evenings with friends and family.
Beyond the special events, Johnstown Castle offers year-round attractions, from its enchanting ornamental gardens and lakeside pathways, designed by Victorian architect Daniel Robertson, to hidden follies and serene picnic spots. The visitor centre and Peacock Café provide a welcoming retreat, while the recently upgraded woodland adventure playground ensures enjoyment for families in all seasons.
For full event details and updates, visit https://johnstowncastle.ie.
