A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined by Arthur Shackleton
Thursday, 30th July 2026
A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined by Arthur Shackleton
A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined offers a great insight into the restoration and transformation of the gardens at Sandbrook House, one of Ireland’s finest Queen Anne country houses. During this special evening on Thursday, 30th July, acclaimed plantsman and garden designer Arthur Shackleton will share the story behind the vision, creativity and careful planning that has shaped these beautiful gardens over the past ten years.
Set within the grounds of the beautiful Sandbrook House, owned by the Bielenberg family, the gardens have evolved through a thoughtful process that respects the property’s rich heritage. Ten years ago Bella Bielenberg began re-envisioning this garden – having always loved roses she wanted to create something romantic and timeless. Over the years the garden has gradually taken shape, filled with roses, pathways and brick spirals that symbolises eternity and enduring love. She has also created a symmetry that reflects the house, built in 1720 with a hope that the garden would feel as though it belonged naturally to the house.
Arthur will explore the inspiration behind the project, the challenges encountered along the way and the principles that have guided the creation of a garden that sits comfortably within its historic setting while looking firmly to the future.
Visitors attending the Carlow Garden Festival will also have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Sandbrook House and its gardens first-hand. Throughout the festival, from July 25th to August 2nd, the gardens will be open to pre-booked groups of five or more, with admission priced at just €5 per person, providing an excellent opportunity to discover one of County Carlow’s hidden garden treasures beyond the evening talk itself.
Time: 6 p.m.
Venue: Sandbrook House and Gardens, Castlegrace, Ballon, Co. Carlow R93 YK09
Admission: €20
Ticket options
Thursday, 30th July 2026
A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined by Arthur Shackleton
A Tale of a Country Garden Reimagined offers a great insight into the restoration and transformation of the gardens at Sandbrook House, one of Ireland’s finest Queen Anne country houses. During this special evening on Thursday, 30th July, acclaimed plantsman and garden designer Arthur Shackleton will share the story behind the vision, creativity and careful planning that has shaped these beautiful gardens over the past ten years.
Set within the grounds of the beautiful Sandbrook House, owned by the Bielenberg family, the gardens have evolved through a thoughtful process that respects the property’s rich heritage. Ten years ago Bella Bielenberg began re-envisioning this garden – having always loved roses she wanted to create something romantic and timeless. Over the years the garden has gradually taken shape, filled with roses, pathways and brick spirals that symbolises eternity and enduring love. She has also created a symmetry that reflects the house, built in 1720 with a hope that the garden would feel as though it belonged naturally to the house.
Arthur will explore the inspiration behind the project, the challenges encountered along the way and the principles that have guided the creation of a garden that sits comfortably within its historic setting while looking firmly to the future.
Visitors attending the Carlow Garden Festival will also have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Sandbrook House and its gardens first-hand. Throughout the festival, from July 25th to August 2nd, the gardens will be open to pre-booked groups of five or more, with admission priced at just €5 per person, providing an excellent opportunity to discover one of County Carlow’s hidden garden treasures beyond the evening talk itself.
Time: 6 p.m.
Venue: Sandbrook House and Gardens, Castlegrace, Ballon, Co. Carlow R93 YK09
Admission: €20
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