Introduction
Ballywalter Park is a mid-19th century house with a conservatory wing, set in grounds made of the two joined demesnes of Ballyatwood House and Springvale House.
Location, Area, Boundaries, Landform and Setting
The grounds feature mature woodland and shelter trees with rides. There are maintained ornamental grounds with notable rhododendrons, a rock garden beside a stream, and a walled garden containing a cultivated rose garden. Other features include two ornamental bridges, a pigeon house and glasshouse.
- Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
Access contact details
The house and gardens may be visited by appointment only. There are also occasional charity open days.
Directions
Off the A20 between Newtownards and Portaferry near Greyabbey.
Owners
Lord Dunleath
Ballywalter Park
- History
19th Century
The house was built in 1846 on the site of Springwood House. It was designed by Charles Lanyon for Andrew Mulholland, a successful linen manufacturer in Belfast.
The demesne also included that of Ballyatwood House. Plantings of trees from about 1800 by Major Matthews survive.
A conservatory was attached to the house in 1856.
Later generations introduced a rock garden and rhododendron collection, set among groves of ornamental trees and shrubs.
Period
Victorian (1837-1901)
- Associated People
- Features & Designations
Designations
Environment and Heritage Service of Northern Ireland Heritage Gardens Inventory
- Reference: D 004
Plant Environment
- Environment
- Woodland Garden
Features
- Rockery
- Ornamental Bridge
- Description: Two ornamental bridges over the stream.
- Kitchen Garden
- Description: Walled garden with rose garden and glasshouses.
- Gate Lodge
- Dovecote
- Glasshouse
- House (featured building)
- Description: Mid-19th century house with a conservatory wing.
- Earliest Date:
- Latest Date:
- Rose Garden
- Key Information
Type
Park
Purpose
Ornamental
Plant Environment
Environment
Principal Building
Domestic / Residential
Period
Victorian (1837-1901)
Survival
Extant
Open to the public
Yes
- References
References
- Bence-Jones, M. {A Guide to Irish Country Houses} (London: Constable, 1990) A Guide to Irish Country Houses
- Register of Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Special Historic Interest, Northern Ireland