Introduction
The site is a former orchard garden on Blackwater River, linked to a house of 1824. Its features include mature trees, pleasure grounds with yew arbours, two pavilions, a riverside lime walk and a sundial garden of 1833.
The Argory is a classical house of 1824, set in a landscape park, and approached via gate lodges. There are mature trees, pleasure grounds with yew arbours, and two pavilions, one of which is a garden house. There is a riverside lime walk, a sundial garden dating from 1833, and a walled garden.
- Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
Telephone
0844 800 1895Access contact details
For detailed open times visit the National Trust website.
Directions
The site is four miles from Charlemont, which is three miles from the M1 exit 13 or 14, signposted. National cycle Route 95, 7 miles. Ulsterbus 67 Portadown to Dungannon, nearest stop Charlemont, then 2.5 mile walk.
Owners
The National Trust
Rowallane House, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 7LH
- History
The house was built in 1824 for Walter McGeough to the design of A. and J. Williamson, architects in the office of Francis Johnston around 1819. The sundial garden was laid out in 1833. The house came into existence due to a quirky stipulation in a will.
In 1898, The Argory suffered a significant fire, leading Captain Shelton to rebuild and modernize parts of the mansion.
- Associated People
- Features & Designations
Designations
Environment and Heritage Service of Northern Ireland Heritage Gardens Inventory
- Reference: A 002
Features
- Arbour
- Description: Yew arbour
- Garden House
- Riverside Walk
- Description: Riverside lime walk
- Kitchen Garden
- Description: Walled garden
- Gate Lodge
- House (featured building)
- Description: Classical house of 7 bays and 2 storeys. Wing set back.
- Earliest Date:
- Latest Date:
- Key Information
Type
Park
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Domestic / Residential
Survival
Extant
Hectares
130
Open to the public
Yes
- References
References
- Bence-Jones, M. {A Guide to Irish Country Houses} (London, Constable 1990) page 12. A Guide to Irish Country Houses
- Register of Parks, Gardens and Demesnes of Special Historic Interest, Northern Ireland