lake shore and woodland walks

An Ice House has been located in the woods in this section. Many of the "Big houses" of Ireland boasted the amenity of an "ice house" in which to store foodstuffs. The essentials were an underground chamber to ensure an equable low temperature, adequate drainage, and a cover which would give both insulation from the sun's rays and easy access for charging and extracting. Availability of ice was also of importance and here it was readily obtained from the lake in Winter. The continuity of Belvedere and its landscape and particularly its great trees is perhaps best summed up by the carved initials on the tree trunks noticeable along the early part of the walk, some of which date back to the last century. No doubt through the centuries, these woodlands as they abut the lake shore were a great source of adventure for young un-invited visitors to the Estate, as they came across the lake in boats or indeed walked the 4 mile distance from the nearby town of Mullingar. Some left a monument of their visit which still remains today, and will remain as long as the tree stands. Most of the trees in the woodlands are well over 100 years old, with one particular Yew tree located close to the Ice House reputed to be over 800 years old.