Gardens > Northern Ireland > County Antrim > Ballyrobert Cottage Garden

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden

The Irish born garden and landscape philosopher, William Robinson, was the inspiration in the design of this garden. Originally a small traditional farm, the owners have used context-sensitive design following the Robinsonian principle of a 'garden to fit the place'. Many traditional landscape features have been retained and others added in the context of an "Ulster Cottage Garden".

Head Gardener's Comment

A series of naturally linking garden areas is the foundation of this garden These are themed and differentiated to create interest all year round. Perhaps the striking feature is the very large collection of herbaceous plants which create an array of colour, texture and form from spring to autumn.

Photograph © Ballyrobert Cottage Garden and Nursery

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden, County Antrim

Photograph © Ballyrobert Cottage Garden and Nursery

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden, Northern Ireland

Photograph © Ballyrobert Cottage Garden and Nursery

History

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden has its 'roots' steeped in the history of Ulster. The cottage and nearby barn are at least two hundred years old and the farm was most likely an original property assigned via the English Crown's initiative to achieve the 'plantation' of Ulster.

Whilst there was a small garden associated with the property this was insignificant. The present owners, who acquired the property in 1995, embarked on a unique design to combine the built heritage with that of nature and horticulture. What has emerged is a garden rich in tradition but teaming with plants and wildlife.