The Old Garden Blooms in Clane: A New Community Space Grows from a Green Field!
A vibrant new chapter in community, sustainability, and local food production has begun in Clane with the first of many Community Open Days at The Old Garden, community gardens and farm located on land generously made available by the Jesuits at Clongowes Wood College.
Offering allotments for annual rent, The Old Garden is already thriving as a hub for environmentally conscious living and community engagement. The initiative proudly qualified for the Community Climate Action Grant last year, and with the backing of generous local sponsors, work on developing the garden’s facilities has steadily progressed.
The first Open Community Day which took place on June 21st was a resounding success, with a full house of attendees enjoying an afternoon of talks, tastings, and tours. A featured presentation by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) on solar power drew an enthusiastic crowd, while guided tours of the gardens showcased the impressive progress and potential of the site.
Children, (and some adults!), enjoyed face painting, while others were busy purchasing freshly harvested hen and duck eggs, a wide range of herbs and vegetables, and the first jars of honey from this year’s harvest from the produce stall run by board member Jenny Tope.
The event’s BBQ—described by many as a highlight—was masterfully run by Company Secretary Joan Dempsey and board member Blathnaid Keogh, who flipped countless burgers and even more sausages. They were joined by two visiting Italians who brought with them a delicious selection of handmade sausages and gave expert help with buns and condiments. Refreshments were provided by board member Richie Byrne who show cased two superb examples of his WineLab wine on tap!
The community spirit was further boosted by the Clane Men’s Shed, whose volunteers managed traffic and parking under the coordination of Ted Murray, Director of Finance at The Old Garden. The Old Garden team is very grateful also to our very artistic face painters, Charlie O’Donovan, Ciarán Carthy & Erin Arun, Seamus Malone for the use of his BBQ, Niall Doolan (Londis, Clane) for all the soft drinks, Cribbin Family Butchers Naas for the BBQ fare & Choice in Clane for the donation of a fabulous wooden garden bench!
Speaking at the event, Chairman Tom Foley expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support: “The turnout today is a testament to the strength of our community and the shared desire for sustainable, local initiatives. This project is only possible because of the incredible generosity of the Jesuits and the dedication of local volunteers, supporters, and sponsors.”
With a strong start and a flourishing vision, The Old Garden is set to become a cornerstone of sustainable living, education, and community in North Kildare.
Allotments will be open for registration again in December for 2026. To get involved, donate, or learn more, please visit www.theoldgarden.ie