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Tullynally
has been owned by the Pakenhams, later Earls of Longford, since
the 17th century. The original house was remodeled by the 2nd Earl
as a huge rambling Gothic revival castle in the early 1800's, now
one of the largest in Ireland to survive as a family home. There
is a fine collection of Irish furniture and portraits, and guided
tours include the splendid Victorian kitchens and laundries.
The
romantic pleasure grounds and walled gardens also date from the
early 1800's and cover nearly 30 acres including two ornamental
lakes and a grotto. The present owners have added a Chinese garden,
complete with pagoda and a Tibetan garden of waterfalls and streams;
and a local sculptor has made fantastic woodcarving in existing
roots and trees. The walled gardens have extensive flower borders
and a magnificent avenue of 200 year old Irish yews.
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