Kilmokea - Hidden Ireland

Kilmokea is a former Georgian rectory, in a quiet, rural location where the Three Sister Rivers, the Suir, Nore and Barrow, meet before flowing out into Waterford Harbour. It’s rightly renowned for its seven acres of award-winning gardens, with a wide range of unusual sub-tropical plants and wonderful organic vegetables. Nearby is beautiful Hook Peninsula, with excellent coastal walks and magnificent Blue Flag beaches, or you can stay at home and relax in our private indoor pool or with a soothing aromatherapy treatment.

Kilmokea in County Wexford, was originally a simple late Georgian Church of Ireland rectory built in 1794 and bought by Colonel and Mrs. David Price, who planned and planted a seven acre garden between 1950 and the mid 1980s with determination and taste. The mild, frost-free climate allowed them to plant a wide range of unusual plants from all around the world, including a number of sub-tropical species. These all flourished at Kilmokea and the garden became justly famous.

Kilmokea was purchased by Mark and Emma Hewlett in 1997 and together with their three boys they have transformed Kilmokea into a stunning location to visit & stay in. The gardens have been extended to accommodate a fruit & vegetable pottage and the Hewlett's creative energy is constantly coming up with innovative ways to improve the gardens. Kilmokea has been thoroughly refurbished which provides luxurious country house accommodation for visitors. It is decorated with warm colours and all the bedrooms, some of which have four poster beds or bateau-lits, have wonderful views over the garden. Throughout the gardens you will find storyboards which highlight much of the history of the area.

New offerings at Kilmokea include outdoor dining for lunch & their new forest bathing. Japanese Forest Therapy known as “Shinrin-Yoku” offers the opportunity for garden visitors to lift the spirit and calm the mind to improve our mental health which is a major health concern after a year of lockdowns. In Japanese ‘Shinrin’ means forest and ‘Yoku’ stands for bathing. Broadly it means taking in all of one’s senses in the woodland atmosphere. Not simply a walk in the woods, it is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of the woodland around you, spending quiet, mindful time in nature to improve your wellbeing. This relaxation practice asks you to take notice of the natural world, breathe deeply and calm your mind. Through immersing yourself in nature in a mindful way, you use your senses to achieve a whole range of benefits for your physical, mental, emotional, and social health.

Kilmokea has a spa with a tennis court, an indoor swimming pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna, a gym and a croquet lawn, all for the exclusive use of their guests who can also avail of a complimentary exclusive hour daily in the indoor swimming pool. Aromatherapy & massage may be booked to further aid relaxation.

"Poppy had an amazing time as did her owners and our 19 year old son. We never felt awkward with our dog Poppy in the Manor or cafe! She was accommodated for so well. The gardens were unbelievable-- beautifully kept and so much fun. There was a little adventure and slice of history at every turn. ☺️ The food hit every spot. The staff and owners were so lovely and helpful. We have never felt so relaxed in a place other than home as we did here! So we will definitely be back for a visit or better still, another stay."

Lorraine B, Tripadvisor, July 2020

"We spent 3 nights in this country manor set amongst the most beautiful gardens and just a few hours from Dublin. You get a real feel for what it must have been like to live in a grand manor. Price includes breakfast which was top quality and plenty of selection. Dinner is extra and must be booked in advanced. Make sure you let them know in advance if you are vegetarian, vegan. The owners are very charming and the staff are polite pleasant. A true treasure and well worth a visit. Not to mention there is an indoor pool and a tennis court."

Linda H, Tripadvisor, Aug 2020