Loughcrew Historic Gardens in Co Meath, are ideal for a day tour being located within easy travelling distance of Dublin and having a full range of visitor facilities on site - refreshments and light meals are available.

The Temple of the Rains

This vast structure, which formed the Entrance Portico of the 1823 Loughcrew House, has been re-erected in its original position as a Folly. Originally designated The Temple of the Winds, it was renamed The Temple of the Rains at the request of the Welsh builders (no Irish contractor could be found who would undertake the task), who were impressed by the constancy of the Irish rain during their work. (It might also have been designated The Temple of the Fires, as the house fell victim to three fires).

The Millpond and Mercury Gate

The Millpond, reclaimed in 1999, was made to power the c19 Watermill. This mill, with an unusually large wheel compensating for an inadequate supply of water, probably powered a Sawmill. A much earlier Cornmill is recorded, nearby but evidently at a different site. The Watermill is to be partially restored and re-thatched in the near future.

Mercury is depicted in a 'tromp-d'oeuil' creation, in the gateway to the c19 section of the Walled Garden. Mercury, the Messenger of the Gods, was himself regarded as a God of Gardens. The Gateway is arched in distinctive grotesque stones, which feature throughout the various c19 follies and rockeries.