What nicer way to spend St Patrick’s Day than taking a stroll around the lovely gardens of Lismore Castle. The annual ‘Devonshire Day’ at the castle is taking place this St Patrick’s Day. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the Pugiin Room at the Castle before having a preview of the spring gardens.

With tours organised at various times throughout the day, visitors can schedule their visit around the viewing of local parades and still not miss this opportunity of the rare treat of a Devonshire Cream Tea in such salubrious surroundings and an equally delightful viewing of the gardens. The gardens are set in seven acres within the 17th century outer defensive walls of the castle and have spectacular views of the castle and the surrounding countryside.

Devonshire Day has become an annual tradition at the castle. Guests are served cream tea by the Duke of Devonshire’s butler before being given a guided tour of the garden under the expert guidance of the head gardener. It’s an opportunity not normally available to visitors.

Devonshire Day is a fundraiser organised by the ‘Immrama Festival of Travel Writing’ committee. The Immrama Festival takes place this year for the 11th year in Lismore from June 13 to 16.

Commenting on the launch of Devonshire Day, Jan Rotte, Event Manager of Immrama said, “we are delighted to again be announcing Devonshire Day at Lismore Castle. This really is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy some Devonshire Cream Tea in the most picturesque surroundings.”

He revealed that Devon recently applied for protected geographical status for Devonshire Cream Tea but said, “We are sure it will always be available to be served at the Irish home of the Duke of Devonshire and for guests to the castle to enjoy each year at Devonshire Day.”

Tours will take place at 11.30am, 12.40pm, 1.50pm, 3pm and 4.10pm. Entrance is by ticket only. Children under 10 are free but must be pre-registered with the ticket office. Tickets are available from the Immrame office and Lismore Heritage Centre. They cost €20. For further enquiries or bookings contact 058-53803 or 058-54975 or see facebook.com/lismoreimmrama