Openings ~27
Back in January I was ‘Wowing’ about some changes at Clotworthy House in Antrim.
The Oriel Gallery and the newly laid grounds on a rather damp day.
The opening of the Oriel Gallery marked the completion of the first building of the major restoration project in the Gardens of Clotworthy House and Antrim Castle.
The view of the other side of this enclosed garden:from the oriel Gallery -
Tastefully reconstructed gateway.
The work progresses towards the completion of restoration and development
This gateway leads through to the front of the building. The door to the left leads to a bright office for the staff and further left (unseen) is a coffee shop.On the day back in January, I was more interested in exploring than drinking coffee so did not like asking for photos.
The door to the right is a gift shop and I did go inside and had a very interesting conversation with the young lady responsible for researching, and sourcing the goods for sale. All products and produce are UK based with most from within Northern Ireland.
Sorting the shelves
Great use of natural light is provided with the new roof lights
Going through the Arch to the front of the building
The ground cleared for grassing.
The site is historic, the first trees were planted in the grounds of the castle over 400 years ago.
Six Mile Water from the Main Entrance.
A view through the trees
The bridge taken from the other side while standing on rough ground (May 2009).
View from the bridge on that day back in 2009. I was standing close to the laburnum tree in the previous photo. Note the Yew Tree it will appear again.
Tower of Antrim Castle (2009) through the trees
Elly & George at the base of the ruin in September 2009. The building in the back ground is Antrim Forum.
Can you see the Yew tree? The ground has been cleared and foundations were found of the castle so they are rebuilding low walls along the founds to give an idea of what it was like and how far it extended. Work is still in progress, the area is not accessible to the public at the moment.
I will return when the work is complete.
Alice said,
February 25, 2012 at 4:04 pm
I’m crazy I know, but I liked the naturalness of the first photo featuring the Yew tree. Guess it would be better to see it in person. I wonder if the improvements will confuse the ghosts. There are usually ghosts in old castles, correct?
Grannymar said,
February 25, 2012 at 4:07 pm
Alice - Come back tomorrow for a little more!
wisewebwoman said,
February 25, 2012 at 6:03 pm
Lovely shots of such a spectacular spot, GM~!
XO
WWW
Grannymar said,
February 25, 2012 at 6:40 pm
WWW - There are more delights to discover when the grounds are reopened by about June.
Mayo said,
February 25, 2012 at 9:32 pm
I like the photo thru the trees. Awesome!
Grannymar said,
February 26, 2012 at 12:25 am
Mayo - Thank you!
Mayo said,
February 26, 2012 at 1:38 pm
Grannymar, you do not have to thank me–Just send “kisses”.
Grannymar said,
February 26, 2012 at 2:35 pm
Mayo - Hershey’s chocolate, or sugar candy kisses?