News from the Walled Garden Russborough – Conor Gill

When volunteer Conor Gill is not strimming, painting the glasshouse,  or restoring benches,he writes poetry.
Here is his tribute to the walled garden.

The Garden (Russborough)

This place leaves me puzzled as we keep going back for more
Weeding, edging, planting, painting nothing seems to be a chore
Once a walled in wilderness attached to this great big house
In its day a food basket, for the privileged, and guests shooting grouse

You have to stop a while to take it in, breathe, think and wonder
A 12 foot high red brick walled garden, surviving years of storms and thunder
The elliptical brick entrance archway that welcomes everyone inside
The massive big iron gates all built by hand with skill and loving pride

And now a great big work in progress with endless possibilities
As a committed team of volunteers, share and stretch their abilities
They work quietly and sometimes loudly, sharing stories, gossip and song
The fruits of their labours so colourful and clear, getting it done, getting along

Russborough is indeed a place to go, and spend a few tranquil hours
A real gem in the heart of West Wicklow, I believe with some healing powers
A place to marvel the architecture, history, pathways, trees and flowers
A welcome awaits everyone who enters, in sunshine and even showers.