Travel: Lismore Castle (County Waterford, Ireland)

Lismore Castle, the birthplace of Robert Boyle, the celebrated scientist whose name lives in "Boyle's Law" was also once the home of Sir Walter Raleigh. It is now the Irish residence of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. You can walk through the magical and very beautiful gardens, which are extensive.

The gardens are set in seven acres within the 17th century outer defensive walls. Recently several pieces of contemporary sculpture have been installed in the gardens. It is a place where you can relax and stroll. Prince John built the original castle in 1185. The Estate was granted for a time to Sir Walter Raleigh. He sold the property to Richard Boyle, later the 1st Earl of Cork, who rebuilt the castle.

The present owner of the castle is Lord Harrington, the son and heir of the 11th Duke of Devonshire. Lord Harrington's great uncle Lord Charles Cavendish was married to Adele Astaire. Fred Astaire, her brother, was a frequent visitor to the castle.

By Bobby33