The restoration of Ballywalter Park, perhaps the most notable Victorian country mansion in the North of Ireland, is remarkable for several reasons. It was built in 1845 while the famine ravaged the country yet Belfast was booming. It has survived in the same family since then and remains a private residence. The magnificent restoration for the present owner Brian Mulholland, Lord Dunleath, has just been awarded one of the thirty EHS (Environment and Heritage Service) Conservation Awards given this year to mark the thirtieth anniversary of Listed Buildings in Northern Ireland. Dick Oram tells its story
As the Royal Hotocultural Society of Ireland celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, President of the RHSI Robert S Myerscough, recalls its foundation and reports on its plan to renovate Russborough’s walled garden