Survey Data
Garden ID
DG0002
Garden Number
DG-02-C-087346
Date
1810 - 1850
Townland
ARDS DEMESNE
County
DG
Coordinates
208561, 434404
Category
2
General Description
Map ID 2581
Composition
A large demesne situated on the Ards peninsula, on the extreme northwest coast of Co. Donegal. House, c. 1830, built for the Stewarts on the site of an earlier house for the Wrays. House demolished c. 1965; friary built adjacent to the site. Set in a wooded park of over 2000 acres. Described by Young in 1909, as "one of the most beautiful demesnes in the north of Ireland." Some developments, such as a car park and landscaping changes have been made in the vicinity of the friary. In addition, trees have been planted by the Forestry Commission on the northern side of the demesne. However, many elements of the historic demesne remains, including fine mature trees, some outbuildings and a large walled garden and associated buildings. The northern half of the demesne is now Ards Forest Park, managed by Coillte and the southern half is owned by Ards Friary.