Brook Hall rings changes following significant upgrade

Pictured above, from left, John Gilliland and David Gilliland (managing partners, Brook Hall), Matt Doherty (business development officer, Visit Derry), Ciaran Doherty (head of regions, Tourism NI), Andrea Campbell (festival organiser, DCSDC) and Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Patricia Logue. PICTURE: Martin McKeown.

A horticultural estate situated on the banks of the River Foyle has launched a new 'landscape destination experience' aimed at attracting tourists and locals alike. 

Brook Hall Estate and Gardens on the Culmore Road has undergone a series of upgrades that will enable the historic parkland, noted for its picturesque gardens, arboretum and sustainability practices, to be opened up for public tours and special events.

With the help of financial support from Tourism NI, improvements to the estate's infrastructure - such as car park expansion, renovation of the visitors' centre, new toilet facilities, better security, restoration of heritage features and expansion of the gardens - have been carried out over the last three years as part of a development plan aimed at making Brook Hall a popular heritage attraction, both for visitors to the city and the local community.

During the Siege of Derry in 1689, Brook Hall was used as headquarters for James II's troops. An elegant villa replaced the original house around 1780 and it was at this time that extensive planting and landscaping took place.

The arboretum – a botanical garden devoted to trees – created in the 1930s is considered one of the finest in the north of Ireland, while a working farm is a model of sustainability.

As a result of the recently-completed improvements, the estate is now in a position to open its gardens for a range of activities, from a selection of public open days throughout the year to guided tours, conferences and workshops.  

David Gilliland, managing partner at Brook Hall, said: “Without the support of Tourism NI we would not be here today. The vital investment in both the essential infrastructure and heritage features of the estate would not have been possible. 

“Their efforts allow us to showcase and share the stories of this landscape from the Siege of Derry to our current research in sustainable landscape management.”

Ciaran Doherty, head of regions and investment at Tourism NI, said: “We are delighted to support the development of this new landscape destination experience through Tourism NI’s Experience Development Programme which will serve to enhance the visitor facilities on offer at Brook Hall Estate and Gardens.

“We are also pleased to see one of the Embrace a Giant Spirit Brand Experience Portfolio sustainably growing their business and delivering authentic, memorable experiences which can be enjoyed in these beautiful surroundings throughout the year.

“I have no doubt this project will create new and compelling reasons to visit the area.”