Johnstown Castle

Creative Writing in the Castle
2023-09-23 10:00 - 17:00 (Europe/Dublin) | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Due to demand after the sell out of her first creative workshop at Johnstown Castle, Sheila Forsey is back.
This immersive full day creative workshop will focus on vision, language, theme, narrative and meaning. It is suitable for anyone with a love of words and a wish to unearth their authentic voice.
After a tour of the castle you will be guided on exploring their response to their environment to find inspiration.
The tranquility, beauty and splendour of the castle and gardens is the perfect environment to escape into a creative world of words.
This workshop is led by historical fiction novelist Sheila Forsey whose last novel was so inspired by the castle. Sheila is a graduate of Maynooth in creative writing an is an Irish Times best-selling author. Sheila is also a hugely experienced creative writing tutor.
[Tea and coffee will be available and lunch can be purchased in the café where a table will be reserved.] Peacock Café & Shop – Johnstown Castle
**Please note that this area of the castle is not accessible for those with mobility issues**
Check out some of Sheila’s work here: Home | Sheila Forsey – Author
Sheila was born on a farm on the coast of Ireland and was brought up listening to the legends and folklore. This gave her a love of words that became the stepping- stone for her career in writing. An intriguing interest into Ireland’s complex and at times very difficult past led her to write historical fiction. With a love for the theatre and many years treading the boards she turned her love of being on the stage to writing. She is a graduate in creative writing from Maynooth University. Sheila spent 2 years as a curator for Wexford Literary Festival and is the facilitator for creative writing in adult education. She has received a bursary in Literature from Artlinks and is a finalist in Scripts Ireland.

Culture Night 2023 Presents: Evening Castle Tours
2023-09-22 16:30 - 18:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Step back in time and enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the 19th century Johnstown Castle. In this one hour guided tour, visitors will be brought through 9 restored rooms, including the family dining room and servant’s basement, and will learn all about the castle’s 854 year history. Visitors will also hear stories about the Johnstown family history, which includes war, rebellion, and tragedy.
FREE EVENT
There are two tours to choose from: 4:30pm & 6:30pm. Please phone 0539184671 to book.

Honey Festival 2023
2023-09-16 10:00 - 2023-09-17 16:00
Wexford Honey Festival in partnership with South Wexford Beekeepers Association takes place on Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th September in Johnstown Castle.

There will be information stands for visitors to learn more about the importance of bees and biodiversity as well as stalls with Wexford beekeepers showcasing their delicious products. There will also be some demonstrations, talks, walks and fun activities for children.
Free for Members and Included in General Admission for Non-Members.

The Story of the East Wing of Johnstown Castle
2023-09-09 11:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
The Story of the East Wing of Johnstown Castle. “Four Rooms, Three Generations, Two Religions”. An Illustrated Talk by Dr Duncan Laurence.
Saturday, 9th September, 11.00 AM.
On Saturday, September 9th at 11am, Dr. Duncan Laurence will give a talk about The East Wing of Johnstown Castle. Works on this area began in about 1830 and took 30 years to complete. The East wing finally housed a billiard room, ballroom, chapel and band-room.
Over the years, some parts were used as an early laboratory, bedrooms and a library.
Using paintings, photographs, maps and historical accounts, this talk will show how the East Wing evolved over three generations. It will reflect the various priorities, personalities and achievements of the different family members who owned the Castle between 1829 and 1944.
The talk will describe some of conservation challenges involved in the recent restoration works which also uncovered some of the Castle’s hidden history.
Terms and Conditions:
Tickets for this event are non-refundable and not for re-sale by third parties.
Please take careful note of your date and time booked, as it’s easy to forget or mix up dates.
Changes to a Service:
In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary at times to change the details or itinerary of the event or of a booking. The Company reserves the right to make reasonable alterations to any booking made. In that event the Company will inform the Customer as soon as reasonably possible. This does not affect your statutory rights.

(SOLD OUT) Evening Bat Walk
2023-08-31 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
IMPORTANT DATE INFORMATION: 27th April at 20.15, 25th May at 21.00, 29 June at 21.15, 27 July at 20.45 and 31 Aug at 20.00.
As the sun begins to set over Johnstown Castle and the visitors leave, many animals are settling down for the night. But around the lakes others are just coming to life! This Summer we are delighted to welcome you for some very special after hours Bat walks.
Come and join us for an evening bat talk and walk with bat conservationist Harm Deenen. Learn about the various bats which live on the Johnstown Estate and why Johnstown Castle is such a special place for them. Get to try out a bat detector and find out how we use it to identify a bat by its call. Warm clothing and boots required. Children aged 10+ only (and accompanied by a parent/guardian), Weather permitting. Pre-booking essential.
Please Note your start time as start times vary depending on sunset time.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
27th April at 20.15 (SOLD OUT)
25th May at 21.00 (SOLD OUT)
29 June at 21.15 (SOLD OUT)
27 July at 20.45 (SOLD OUT)
31 Aug at 20.00 (SOLD OUT)
Day visitors: Members: €7 Children 10+: €8, Adults: €13.
A booking fee of €1.95 will be added to each ticket booking. For further information contact: info@johnstowncastle.ie
Bring
The confirmation email on your mobile phone.
Please note start date for day you have booked as these vary depending on sunset time.
Terms and Conditions:
Tickets for this event are non-refundable and not for re-sale by third parties.
Please take careful note of your date and time booked, as your event is a while away and it’s easy to forget or mix up dates.
Changes to a Service
In exceptional circumstances it may be necessary at times to change the details or itinerary of the event or of a Booking. The Company reserves the right to make reasonable alterations to any Booking made. In that event the Company will inform the Customer as soon as reasonably possible. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Meditation at Johnstown Castle
2023-08-28 11:00 - 2023-10-30 12:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Everyone experiences times of worry and stress in their life.Now, more than ever before, we want to feel calm, focused, and confident in ourselves. Practicing meditation can help clear away the mind’s chatter. Studies show that meditating even for as little as 10 minutes increases relaxation and decreases anxiety and depression!
Meditation increases happiness, reduces stress, and promotes calmness. It shows you how to become fully present, grounded, and at peace in yourself. It can be much easier to learn meditation in a group than on your own.
A teacher and therapist, Anne Marie has shared mindfulness and meditation for many years. She embodies everything that these practices can bring. She will guide you to discover your own connection to life, as you move towards real joy and happiness.
Join Anne Marie every Monday for a 1 hour meditation class inside the beautiful and serene Johnstown Castle.
Please bring a cushion/yoga mat/blanket to the class if you wish to be more comfortable.
Member €10pp
Non Member €15pp and includes general admission into the estate

Jamie Benson
2023-08-27 13:00 - 15:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Jamie is a a 3rd year UCC Music Student, growing up in Wexford Jamie developed a love for performing from a very early age. She is exploring her love for song writing and is a recent recipient of the Donal “Doc” Gleeson award at UCC.
Jamie will be playing in the Museum Courtyard from 1pm – 3pm Sunday 27th August.
FREE FOR MEMBERS
INCLUDED IN GENERAL ADMISSION

WW1 Window Restoration Talk
2023-08-20 12:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Matt Wheeler will give a short presentation on the progress of the restoration of a First World War window which commemorates Gerald FitzGerald of Johnstown Castle. This project is being funded through the Heritage Council’s Community Heritage Grant Scheme.
The talk is free for members and included in general admission and is not a ticketed event.

The Great War Remembered
2023-08-19 12:00 - 2023-08-20 16:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
A weekend of re-enactments of aspects of World War One with The Irish Great War Society. This event will take place on the 19th and 20th of August during Heritage Week.
We are delighted to welcome the men and women of The Irish Great War Society to Johnstown. They will commemorate and illustrate the involvement of Wexford men and women in World War I.
The Irish Great War Society is a living history group dedicated to education and remembrance . Wearing and using authentic uniforms and equipment the group will re-enact realistic and factual demonstrations. This will include; rifle firing, the gas drill and gas attack, trench raids, the dawn advance and execution at dawn. Their displays include an advance field hospital and dressing station. The first proper port of call for wounded troops behind the lines where doctors would assess the severity of the men’s injuries.
The field hospital and nursing station will be open to the public from 12pm until 4pm. The re-enactments will take place at 12.30pm and 3pm with time after each experience for visitors to meet the participants, view the equipment and ask questions.
Free for members and included in daily general admission.

Irish Agricultural Museum "Peacock Trail"
2023-08-12 09:00 - 2023-08-20 16:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
National Heritage Week is the 12th August – 20th August. This years theme invites you to explore the traditions and practices, knowledge and skills passed down through generations. Why not explore the Irish Agricultural Museum with your family via the “Peacock Trail” which is self guided. You will learn all about Irish Country Life, The Famine and what life was like in the past.
This trail is included in general admission and free for members.

(SOLD OUT) Cyanotype Art Workshop
2023-07-28 11:00 - 14:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Local artist Judith Tutin is returning this summer to run the popular cyanotype workshops in Johnstown Castle.
**Book your place by emailing doylejudith@yahoo.co.uk**
Johnstown Castle gardens are the perfect location to explore this traditional early photographic method. The workshop is aimed at photographers and plant lovers, anyone who enjoys exploring the beauty of simple shapes. It is suitable for all artistic abilities and children from 9 upwards are also welcome. Beginners will enjoy the simple beauty of this process while more advanced artists will challenge themselves with composition and variations on the technique.
The process involves specially treated paper and exposure to the sun, followed by washing in cold water.
The full workshop lasts 3 hours and is €60 per person (all materials provided). 11am – 2pm (fully booked).
Judith will give you all the information about cyanotypes and how to make the raw materials from scratch. You will leave with an array of different images, exploring the cyanotype technique in multiple ways.
This year there is a drop-in taster workshop where you will takeaway 2 finished images – cost €10. No need to book, first-come basis starting at midday. For €10 you will get 2 pieces of treated paper and an explanation of how to use it. You can then continue enjoying your walk around the gardens and come back to collect your finished work, or stay and watch the whole magical process. This taster workshop is ideal for families, or those who want a unique memento of the plant life in Johnstown.
Judith is a Wexford local, from Murrintown. She has been working as an art teacher in the UK for over 20 years and is now a successful practising artist working in both cyanotype and spiritual oil paintings. This will be Judith’s 4th year running this popular workshop.
**Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment**
All our events can be found here:

Rewilding & Biodiversity Tour with Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald
2023-07-13 11:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Join Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald on Thursday, 13th July at 11am. Ciarán will give a guided tour of Johnstown castle’s grounds focusing on the work that the team have been doing rewilding Johnstown Castle Estate.
Ciaran will also speak about the hugely important biodiversity element at Johnstown Castle and highlight the immense range of both flora and fauna on the estate.
Please be aware that this tour will take approx. 90 minutes and will involve walking throughout.
The tour duration is approx. 1.5 hours and the meeting point is in the courtyard.
**We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in and to collect your tickets at the desk.**

Jazz Pizzazz with Stella Bass
2023-06-24 20:00 - 22:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
If ever a trio of musicians in contemporary Irish jazz warranted the description as a super group, bassist Barry Donahue, drummer Dominic Mullen and keyboardist Johnny Taylor fit the bill. They will be the sensational sound behind one of the best jazz vocalists in the country, Stella Bass. Stella is making her Jazz at Johnstown debut on Saturday, June 24, at 8 p.m.
Since she released her first album in 2014, Stella has performed at most of the major jazz festivals in Ireland. She has also performed at the famous Pizza Express in London and jazz venues in Germany, France and Australia.
Stella was a headline act at the 2017 Cork Jazz Festival in a concert she devised with acclaimed jazz guitarist Hugh Buckley, which paid tribute to the Ella Fitzgerald/Joe Pass collaborations.
This show also toured Ireland that year, and sold out twice in Dublin’s National Concert Hall. Stella had similar sell-out success in the NCH with her jazz-inspired interpretations of the music of Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim. This concert also toured Ireland.
Stella’s versatile repertoire crosses over jazz, classical and musical theatre, though she is still most at home singing her beloved jazz standards. Stella is inspired by her major influences, Ella Fitzgerald and Barbra Streisand.
**Tickets for this show are limited and tickets must be pre-booked. We recommend arriving 20 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in and to purchase refreshments.**

Jazz at Johnstown - 3 Day Festival
2023-06-23 - 2023-06-25 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Jazz at Johnstown Festival
The biggest outdoor jazz festival in the South East takes place in Wexford across three days from June 23 to June 25.
Over 14 bands and 35 musicians from throughout the country will take part in the third outdoor Jazz at Johnstown festival.
Hosted on the grounds of Johnstown Castle, some of the biggest names in Irish jazz –Stella Bass, Carole Nelson Trio, Lee Meehan Quintet and Cormac Kenevey – will bring star-studded bands to the Wexford venue.
A series of outdoor stages – the Castle Stage, the Sunken Garden, the Visitors Centre’s jazz on the grass, the Courtyard – will accommodate two full days of live jazz on Saturday and Sunday. Admission to the festival is free for members, €9 a day for adult, €7 for OAP/Students, €4 child, or €24 per day for a family of two adults and two children (Under 5’s are Free). General Admission tickets can be pre-purchased here: https://rb.gy/07bn8
A separate admission charge is in place for the evening headline acts at the Visitors Centre on Friday night (Mark Redmond and Chris Colloton Trio) and Saturday (Stella Bass with Barry Donohue, Dominic Mullan and Johnny Taylor).
Jazz at Johnstown is a recipient of the Small Arts Festivals and Experimental Art Events Grants Scheme 2023 from the Arts Department, Wexford Co. Council. It is also supported by Johnstown Castle, Rosslare Municipal District, Wexford Co. Council, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Irish Heritage Trust and Price Waterhouse Cooper.
FULL SCHEDULE: *Subject to change*
Mark Redmond and Chris Colloton Trio
Jazz at Johnstown, in the first of two indoor concerts at the Visitors Centre, brings together jazz and Irish trad to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the seminal Horslips album, The Táin. Our special guest is Wexford piper Mark Redmond, playing alongside Jazz at Johnstown frequent headliners, the Chris Colloton Trio, featuring on keyboards the young wizard Killian Browne, and guesting on drums, the brilliant Lorcan Byrne. Guitar supremo Chris and Mark will reimagine The Táin, which represented the zenith of the Horslips’ Celtic Symphony years, as the opening concert of the 2023 Jazz at Johnstown festival. The coming together of these great musicians will demonstrate how both trad and jazz can easily incorporate aspects of each other into a stunning fusion of improvisational brilliance. Making his debut at Jazz at Johnstown, Mark Redmond has toured globally as a soloist and ensemble musician. This is a one-off occasion to see these four eminent musicians playing a classic from the Irish repertoire as an ensemble. (8 p.m @ the Visitors Centre)
SATURDAY, JUNE 24
The Ivy Sisters
The Ivy Sisters (Sharon Clancy, Jilly Cox and Aileen Donohoe), a vintage vocal harmony trio from Wexford, is one of the country’s most accomplished exponents of vocal jazz and swing. A live performance by these singers, all of whom come from a performing and theatrical background including the West End, promises a cocktail of sassy entertainment which can switch from seductive harmonising to a full blown, delicious euphony of pitch-perfect harmony, in seconds. A perennial favourite at Jazz at Johnstown.
(11.30 a.m @ the Visitors Centre)
Carole Nelson Trio
Carole is a London-born jazz pianist, saxophonist and composer who has been living in Ireland since 1986. Her current project, the Carole Nelson Trio, with Carole on piano, bassist Cormac O’Brien and drummer Dominic Mullen, began at a piano festival in Dublin in 2015. Their first album, One Day in Winter was released November 2017. Comprising all original compositions from Carole, the album follows the course of a winter’s day, inspired by the South County Carlow landscape between the River Barrow and the Blackstairs Mountains, where she currently lives and was described as ‘a finely-wrought meditation that tapped into the spacious European piano trio tradition of Tord Gustavsen and Marcin Wasilewski’ by Cormac Larkin in The Irish Times. Arboreal is the trio’s second album, which was released in 2020 and featured another collection of outstanding compositions.
(12.30 p.m. @ the Sunken Garden)
Gediminas Karkauskas Trio
Gediminas Karkauskas from Lithuania is a jazz pianist, composer and educator who has been living in Dublin for the past two decades. In 2020 Gediminas released his debut album, Lost Suite, which was critically acclaimed not only in Europe but also in the USA, where it remained in the charts for fifteen weeks. It was cited by ‘jazzfuel’ as one of the top jazz albums of the year whilst American author Debbie Burke devoted a whole chapter of her book , “tasty jazz jams for our times vol.2” to an appreciation of Lost Suite. Gediminas will be joined by Wexford drummer Kevin Lawlor and Kilkenny bassist Adrian Jackson.
(1.15 p.m. @ Johnstown Castle)
ÄTSCH
Dublin four-piece ÄTSCH started life in 2016 as the graduation project of German-born guitarist Matthias Winkler, but the chemistry between its members – the band also features keyboardist Graeme Bourke, bassist Eoin O’Halloran and drummer Hugh Denman – has kept them together over the last six years: the band’s third album proves the musical rewards that can flow from such sustained engagement.
(2.15 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre)
Pogo Bear
Pogo Bear – Daniel Rorke, saxophone, Cormac O’Brien, double bass and Shane O’Dononvan, drums – is a trio of dynamic and innovative musicians. Formed in the vibrant and thriving music scene in Dublin, this trio have honed their sound over recent years, drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical genres. They have created a distinctive sound that is both accessible and complex, showcasing their technical proficiency and improvisational skills. Pogo’s live shows are a tour de force of energy and creativity, with each member taking turns to shine as they weave intricate melodies and harmonies together. From high-energy bebop to soulful ballads, this trio seamlessly blends genres and styles to create a truly unique musical experience. Whether on stage or in the studio, this trio is a true embodiment of the power of collective musical expression.
(3.15 p.m. @ the Courtyard)
TBL8
TBL8 is a big-band inspired brass and stage ensemble based in Dublin and playing together since June 2017. Most of the band learned their instruments in the Finglas Concert and Marching Band as kids, where they became friends and started playing the music they wanted to play. Since then, they have put together a set-list of both original compositions as well as original arrangements based on modern pop songs.
(4.15 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre)
Stella Bass (with Barry Donohue, Dominic Mullan and Johnny Taylor)
If ever a trio of musicians in contemporary Irish jazz warranted the description as a super group, bassist Barry Donohue, drummer Dominic Mullan and keyboardist Johnny Taylor fit the bill. They are the sensational sound behind one of the best jazz vocalists in the country, Stella Bass, making her Jazz at Johnstown debut on Saturday, June 24, at 8 p.m.
Since she released her first album in 2014, Stella has performed at most of the major jazz festivals in Ireland, as well as at Pizza Express in London and jazz venues in Germany, France and Australia. She was a headline act at the 2017 Cork Jazz Festival in a concert she devised with acclaimed jazz guitarist Hugh Buckley, which paid tribute to the Ella Fitzgerald/Joe Pass collaborations.
This show also toured Ireland that year, and sold out twice in Dublin’s National Concert Hall. Stella had similar sell-out success in the NCH with her jazz-inspired interpretations of the music of Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim; this concert also toured Ireland. Stella’s versatile repertoire crosses over jazz, classical and musical theatre, though she is still most at home singing her beloved jazz standards, inspired by her major influences, Ella Fitzgerald and Barbra Streisand.
(8 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre)
SUNDAY JUNE 25
Jazz Alley
For such a short and innocuous word, ‘Swing’ packs quite a punch in jazz, and few ensembles pack as powerfully and as infectiously as the Vicky Barron-led Jazz Alley. Last year’s Jazz at Johnstown festival opener, Jazz Alley will return to the familiar haunt of jazz on the grass at the Visitors Centre, with a set which includes popular favourites and occasional rarities with an astonishing sound. Jazz never gets old, played by a band like Jazz Alley from Wexford. Vicky’s unique tone and approach to melody have helped define lyrical saxophone playing in Wexford for many, many years.
(11.45 a.m. @ the Visitors Centre)
Melanie O’Reilly Quartet
Wexford-based Melanie O’Reilly and her star-laden swing jazz trio – Gediminas Karkauskas – piano, Adrian Jackson –bass and Kevin Lawlor – drums present a bouquet of sultry swinging jazz celebrating legendary singers Anita O’Day, Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, Nina Simone, Mel Torme, Jon Hendricks among many, revisiting the Great American Songbook while bringing new life to the memory of jazz vocal legends and songwriters of Tin Pan Alley.
(1. p.m. @ the Sunken Garden)
Presto
Presto from Wexford is a newly formed duo between Des O’ Callaghan and Hayley Crosbie. Between them they have a whirlwind of experience! Guaranteed to provide a high energy and entertaining performance with a variety of different music, from classics to modern to jazz! They are not to be missed over a cup of coffee or Sunday lunch!
(1.15 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre restaurant)
Cormac Kenevey (with Dominic Mullan, Dave Redmond and Johnny Taylor)
In 2006, Cormac Kenevey funded and recorded his first album This Is Living – a collaboration with the exceptionally talented Dublin stalwart Phil Ware and his Trio. It was quickly picked up and released by Alan Bates at the CANDID record label in London (home to Stacey Kent and Jamie Cullum). Thus began a career as a jazz singer with a string of critically acclaimed national and international appearances. His second album The Art of Dreaming confirmed his place on the international jazz scene. His tour dates have included locations in London (Ronnie Scott’s, Pizza Express Dean St) around Europe, and as far afield Abu Dhabi and Mexico. During this period he also took the time to complete a Master’s Degree in Jazz performance, specialising in the art of Vocalese and in the vocal stylings of hero and eventual mentor, Mark Murphy. A big crowd favourite last year, he brings a magnificent trio to Jazz at Johnstown: Dominic Mullan, Dave Redmond and Johnny Taylor.
(2.15 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre)
Sharon Clancy Trio
An opportunity to see this ensemble on home soil before it makes its international debut at the Aberjazz International Festival in the UK in August. With Vicky Barron on saxophone/clarinet and Terry Byrne on keyboards/piano, singer Sharon Clancy can sing straight-ahead jazz with aplomb but switch styles in the blink of an eye. A frequent headliner over the years at Jazz at Johnstown with the Chris Colloton Trio, Sharon has both a smouldering and sensuous vocal with a seasoned performer’s mastery of the stage.
(3.15 p.m. @ the Courtyard)
Lee Meehan Quintet (with Shane O’Donovan, Dave Redmond and Darragh O’Kelly)
The Lee Meehan Quintet is a high octane ensemble. Lee, guitar, will be joined on stage by the incredible talent of Shane O’Donovan on drums, Dave Redmond on bass, Darragh O’Kelly on keyboards and Michael Buckley on saxophone. Lee will be performing his own original songs as well as jazz standards from the great American songbook. Lee is best known on the Irish music circuit for being a blues guitarist and singer playing with the likes of Don Baker, The 9Bars (9bar blues band) Gotcha!, The Business, Rob Strong, Damien Dempsey, Mik Pyro (Republic Of Loose). After hearing Wes Montgomery for the first time Lee quickly became fascinated with jazz and studied the genre extensively for some time.
(4.15 p.m. @ the Visitors Centre)

Heraldic Castle Tour with Peter Henry
2023-06-17 14:30 - 15:45 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Date: Saturday 17th June at 14:30pm.
Johnstown Castle is decorated with many heraldic emblems – birds, bears, griffins, lions and more – representing the families who owned the estate.
The interior and exterior feature coats of arms connected to the Grogans and their descendants, many of them indicating the marriages that took place between them and other wealthy families – including names such as Reynolds, Jervis, Rowe, Forbes and FitzGerald.
Beyond the castle itself, many documents and other items connected to the castle’s proprietors are marked with these intriguing decorations. On Saturday,17th June, Peter Henry will lead a special tour of the castle, pointing out and identifying the various items of heraldry and giving a general introduction to this colourful, esoteric subject.
Peter is the author of The Heraldry of Johnstown Castle: A Wexford Estate’s Armorial History (2019), which is available in the Visitor Centre shop (limited availability). This tour will be especially interesting to local history enthusiasts who want to further their knowledge of the castle and its owners, from the Esmondes to the Grogans, Fitzgeralds and Lakins.

Lady Catherine Colclough by Alan Ryan
2023-06-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Come along to what is sure to be a fascinating talk about Lady Catherine Colclough on Saturday 17th June at 11am.
Learn about this intriguing character who was born into the Grogan family at Johnstown Castle. The talk will be presented by Alan Ryan, Project Manager for Colclough Walled Garden. Alan will also provide an update on latest work at the garden.
This event will take place in the Ballroom in the newly restored East Wing of the Castle.
**We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in, to collect your tickets at the desk and make your way to the castle ballroom**

Guided Tree Walk with Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald
2023-06-15 11:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Join Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald on a fascinating guided tree walk on Johnstown Castles Estate on Thursday 15th June at 11am. Ciarán will talk about the huge variety of trees throughout the estate.
He will also discuss the future plans for the estate including the plans for the walled garden and gardeners house and the ongoing work.
The tour duration is approx. 1.5 hours and the meeting point is in the courtyard.
**We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in and to collect your tickets at the desk.**

Castle 'N' Cars at Johnstown Castle
2023-05-27 09:00 - 15:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
On Saturday May 27th, Park ‘N’ Chill Waterford are back for the third instalment of Castle ‘n’ Cars.
This year will be even bigger than before with a huge selection of cars from Supercars to JDM legends, classic restorations and European Elites.
Enjoy your Saturday with a walk around the grounds of a 12th Century Castle, weaving in and out between the Irish Car Culture.
Gates open to the public at 09:00, through the Visitor centre.
Free parking available on site.
This year the event is supporting Wexford Marinewatch as well as Junior for Juniors.
General Admission will cover access to the see the car show, the gardens, the arboretum as well as the museum.
€9 per adult
€24 per family (2-2)
€7 student/ Seniors
Children over 5 years of age – €4
Children under 5 go free.
Members are FREE and any guests accompanying a member will receive a 20% discount on the admission fee.

Guided Bee Walk
2023-05-20 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
(Limited Tickets Remaining)
Join us on Saturday 20th May for ‘World Bee Day’ to celebrate the wonderful world of bees.
Hosted during ‘National Biodiversity Week’, this guided walk and talk will be led by Property Curator Matt Wheeler and wildlife expert Harm Deenen. You will learn all about the Johnstown apiary and the wild honeybees that inhabit the Estate as well as more unusual types of bee which are also important for pollination.
The walks take place at 11am (fully booked) and 2pm (1 space remaining) and places must be booked in advance.
Tours start promptly so please check in at reception at least 20 minutes before the start time of the tour. The tour will start from the museum courtyard.
All children should be accompanied by an adult.

Tickets for this event are non-refundable and not for re-sale by third parties.
Please take careful note of your date and time booked, as your event is a while away and it’s easy to forget or mix up dates.
Please be aware that if you miss your time or day we may not be able to accommodate you at an alternative time.

Guided Garden Walk
2023-05-18 11:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Join Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald on a guided tour of Johnstown castle’s grounds on Thursday 18th May at 11am.
Ciarán will talk about the history of the gardens as well as the future plans for the estate.
He will also discuss the plans for the walled garden and give a sneak peak into the newly restored glass house.
The tour duration is approx 1.5 hours and the meeting point is in the courtyard.
**Places are limited and tickets must be pre-booked. We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in and to collect your tickets at the desk.**

Qi Gong at Johnstown Castle
2023-05-17 11:00 - 2023-08-30 12:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese form of movement and meditation to improve health and well-being.
In the outdoor Qi Gong class with Mary you will start with a Wellness Qi Gong warm up routine. This will be followed by a Shaolin Stretching (Yi Jing Ba Shi) routine to activate and stretch the main energy meridians.
We will finish with Han Yang Ryu Yi Gong – a moving meditation to harmonise the yin and yang energy in the body.
No special equipment is required for the class as all routines are performed standing. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Mary will be hosting weekly classes every Wednesday at 11am.
This event is non refundable and if required can be moved indoors on any given day.

Yoga at Johnstown
2023-05-13 10:00 - 2023-11-28 11:00 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Alanna is a Yoga Teacher with a background in Mental Health Nursing. Combining her experience of working in the field of mental health with yoga teachings, Alanna takes a considered approach to her yoga classes. She will be hosting weekly indoor classes every Tuesday & Saturday at 10am.
What to expect:
This indoor slow yoga flow uses the surrounding nature & castle to create a calm and grounding energy for a lovely weekend reset. Through gentle, intentional movement and connection with the breath we can learn to tune in to the body and bring calm to the mind.
What is needed:
This class is suitable for all levels, no previous yoga experience is necessary.
All you need to bring is a yoga mat, and whatever else you might need to feel comfortable on the day (water bottle, layers, blanket etc).
*We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time as this event will take place in the Castle’s stunning ballroom.
** This event is non refundable and if required the location of the class can be moved to another area on a specific day**.

The Richie Buckley Quartet at Johnstown (SOLD OUT)
2023-04-21 20:00 - 22:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
The Richie Buckley Quartet – Friday April 21st at 8pm.
Having recorded with Van Morrison, Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello, one of Ireland’s most acclaimed tenor saxophonists Richie Buckley will make his debut at Jazz at Johnstown on Friday, April 21, with an extraordinary trio of musicians.
With his unique style and virtuosic technique, Richie is internationally recognised as a legendary jazz performer, lionised by The Sunday Independent as a musician who “manages to be simultaneously passionate and gentle, romantic and elegiac.”
Richie will be accompanied at this one off Jazz at Johnstown spring special by Myles Drennan on Hammond organ, John Moriarty on guitar and Kevin Brady on drums.
Richie is one of the most sought after saxophonists in Europe: his collaborations include Van Morrison, Freddie Hubbard, Dave McKenna, Harry Allen, Lew Soloff, Guy Barker, Jiggs Wigham, Bob Dylan, Georgie Fame, Jon Hendricks, Carlos Santana, Barry Manilow, and Elvis Costello.
Among his recording credits are Van Morrison, James Williams, Barry Manilow, Elmer Bernstein, The Cranberries, Christy Moore, Sharon Shannon, Sinead O’Connor, Paul Brady and Bill Whelan.
He has also scored three documentary films – ‘Luke’ (Luke Kelly, directed by Sinead O’Brien), ‘Friel’, ‘Lee Marvin’ (directed by John Boorman) and the film ‘The General’ (directed by John Boorman).
Tickets are priced at €25 for members of Johnstown Castle and €30 for non-members.
**Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in, finding a table and the purchasing of some refreshments **

(SOLD OUT) National Tree Week Tour
2023-03-23 11:00 - 12:30 | Johnstown Castle Estate, Y35 HP22, Ireland
Join Head Gardener Ciarán Fitzgerald on a fascinating guided tour of Johnstown Castles grounds on Thursday 23rd March at 11am as part of National Tree Week. Ciarán will talk about the huge variety of coniferous trees throughout the estate.
He will also discuss the future plans for the estate including the plans for the walled garden and gardeners house, the ongoing works and the re-wilding activities that are taking places on the estate.
**Places are limited and tickets must be pre-booked. We recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the start time to allow for check in and to collect your tickets at the desk.**
