European Heritage Open Day 2026 at The Walled Garden, Helens Bay Guided Walled Garden Tour

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European Heritage Open Day 2026 Heritage at Risk, Revive, Resist, Reimagine

Celebrate European Heritage Open Day 2026 with a visit to one of Northern Ireland’s hidden historic gardens. Usually closed to the public, except for workshps and events, The Walled Garden, Helen’s Bay offers a rare chance to explore a remarkable restoration project.

When James and Lorraine Small first discovered the Victorian Walled Garden, they found an overgrown, weed-infested garden with crumbling walls, hidden pathways and neglected borders. Beneath the years of neglect, however, they could still see the beauty and character of this forgotten place. They fell in love with its story and its potential, and committed themselves to bringing it back to life.

Over the past nineteen years, they have revived the garden with traditional craftsmanship, careful planting and a deep respect for its history. At the same time, they have reimagined its future through rural diversification. Today, workshops, guided tours, locally produced food, private events and, soon, self-catering accommodation all help fund the ongoing restoration. As a result, the garden continues to grow while remaining true to its Victorian character.

Guided Garden Tour

Join James and Lorraine Small for a guided tour and hear the remarkable story behind the restoration. Along the way, you’ll discover the challenges they have faced and the traditional skills they continue to use. You’ll also learn about their long-term vision for the garden.

As you explore, you’ll see restored walls, productive gardens, wildlife habitats and historic features. In addition, you’ll discover how conservation, biodiversity and sustainable gardening work together to protect this special place. Every corner tells a story of resilience, craftsmanship and hope.

Whether you love gardening, local history, architecture or conservation, European Heritage Open Day 2026 offers a unique opportunity to experience a heritage project that continues to evolve.

Refreshments

Enjoy tea, coffee and homemade traybakes during your visit. You can also browse our selection of homemade Walled Garden jams, chutneys and award-winning fudge. Every purchase supports the ongoing restoration of the garden.

Please note that restoration work continues across the site. Consequently, Wi-Fi is unavailable and mobile phone reception can be limited. Therefore, we recommend bringing cash if possible.

Admission: Free

Dogs: Welcome on leads

Parking: Free onsite parking

Finding Us

Access Craigdarragh Road from the A2 Belfast to Bangor carriageway and follow the signs for Helen’s Bay.

Continue for approximately 0.8 miles until you see The Walled Garden on your left.

Next, turn left at the event signs just before the 30mph speed limit. NOT at the laneway adjacent to the white house. Then follow the temporary driveway to the visitor car park.

Finally, take a few moments to explore how one forgotten Victorian garden has grown into a thriving destination through heritage, horticulture and rural diversification.

For more information about European Heritage Open Day 2026, visit the official European Heritage Open Days website.

We look forward to welcoming you to discover how one forgotten Victorian garden has been revived, reimagined and given a sustainable future through heritage, horticulture and rural diversification.

For more information about our other events and workshops CLICK HERE