Significance of Historic Parks, Gardens and Demesnes

The character and appearance of the modern landscape of Northern Ireland owes much to planned landscape enhancement carried out since the 17th century, and many of the hedgerow trees or tree stands which are seen in the countryside today were once planned and planted as part of land management measures. This has resulted in a rich legacy of gardens, parks and demesnes of archaeological, historical and botanical interest. Demesnes with their distinct boundary features also make a valuable contribution to the quality and character of the local landscape, whether or not the original house survives, while those parks, gardens and demesnes that are open to the general public provide an important informal recreational resource. The Department considers it important therefore that these valuable features of our built heritage are protected from development which would harm their historic character.