Guest Activities

Darina Allen’s world renowned, multi-award-winning Ballymaloe Cookery School is located just 4km from the hotel. Residents can collect a complimentary entry ticket from reception to go and enjoy their organic farm, gardens and shop that sells fresh produce, baked goods, artisan cheese and meat.

Ballymaloe House is not just one of the leading hotels in Ireland; it is also a fully working farm. As such, there are a variety of animals, including free-range hens, pigs and sheep for you to visit. As you do, you will also notice many of our nature initiatives, such as owl breeding boxes and our own beehives.

No trip to Ballymaloe House is complete without a visit to our charming collection of Irish-made gifts, crafts, knitwear and kitchenware. As you browse them all, make sure to head towards the rear of the shop to find delicious light bites, homemade cakes hot teas and strong coffees in our beautiful café.

As fun as it is relaxing, a game of croquet on our lawn is a fantastic way to pass some time, especially in the evening. The relaxed pace of croquet makes it a hugely fun activity for people of all ages and skill levels. Mallets, balls and a list of the rules for this classic pastime are available from reception.

Located on the grounds of the hotel, this beautifully refurbished 17th-century farm building plays host to rotating art exhibitions featuring some of Ireland’s most talented artists. With a curated collection that changes every six weeks, this is a fresh, inspiring and unique opportunity to catch their work up close. The Grainstore also hosts weekly fitness activities and yoga classes for paying guests.

Open all year round, our lovely little pool features a small paddling area, a shallow end and a deep end of 2 metres. Powered by our biomass boiler, it efficiently utilises waste straw, making it extremely eco-friendly. It offers a refreshing plunge after the Woodland Sauna in the cooler months, with the water heated by our biomass boiler from mid-May to September.

Surrounded by wild roses, ivy and hydrangeas, our rustic tennis court offers a serene setting for a friendly match. While you are welcome to bring your own equipment, we are happy to provide you with some rackets and balls so that you are free to enjoy what is a great way to stay active during your visit.

Our stunning walled garden is a fascinating experience for anyone interested in gardening and seasonal planting. Filled with seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs, it is a fantastic place for a leisurely stroll. There are even guided tours with our head gardener every Wednesday from 10.45-11:30 from April to September.

Borrowing a pair of wellingtons from reception is the best way to start exploring the gardens, the woodlands or the farmlands that surround our historic country house. With paths suitable for every fitness level and a detailed map outlining the trails and their average times, you have everything you need to get out and go.

If you exit the main house and follow the charming flagstone path into the middle of our enchanting forest, you will arrive at something truly special. Our classic, wooden-barrel woodland sauna is the perfect place to reawaken your senses and restore harmony to your mind and body. A timeless wellness escape, it’s available to prebook all year round at €30 per hour per couple, with space for up to four people.