Visit my Studio at Castle Ward, National Trust

The Gothic facade of the Mansion House, Castle Ward, National Trust

Visit my Shared Studio in the Grounds of Castle Ward, Northern Ireland

For the past thirteen years, I have been a resident artist at Castle Ward — a beautiful National Trust property on the shores of Strangford Lough.

It feels strange to realise that I have kept this part of my creative life largely separate from my website all this time. I’m not entirely sure why — perhaps it felt like a world of its own. But recently, while having my website reviewed, it was suggested that I share more about my connection to Castle Ward.

And it makes perfect sense.

I absolutely love this place. Even after thirteen years, there are days I have to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming. I feel so incredibly fortunate to create my work here.

The Studio at Castle Ward nestled between the Clock Tower and the Saw Mill

The Studio at Castle Ward is located in the farmyard, inside the Potter’s Barn, next to the old Clock Tower, built in the 1600s and originally home to the Ward family.

Many visitors recognise the setting from Game of Thrones, where this part of the estate became Winterfell, but for me, it is simply where I work, surrounded by history, changing light, open skies and the shifting tides of Strangford Lough.

Over the years, the rhythm of the seasons here has quietly shaped my creative practice.

Open Studio Friday - Sunday 11.00 - 5.00 and by appointment

Open Studio – March to December

I share the Studio with ceramicist Charlene Rooney.

Together, we host an Open Studio every weekend from March to December, Friday to Sunday, 11am – 5pm. We work alternate weekends so that the studio doors are always open, although occasionally we post updates on Instagram if plans change.

You’ll often find me there during the week too, working on commissions and orders and developing new ideas or sometimes just enjoying a cup of tea and watching the seals who have become frequent visitors in recent years. If you are planning a special visit, it’s always best to send me a message first.

Outside the Studio with my talented studio partner Charlene Rooney Ceramics

A quiet moment by the lough shore at Castle Ward

Why This Place Matters

Being a designer-maker can feel solitary at times, which makes sharing a studio space all the more valuable. Having another artist to exchange ideas with, to collaborate with, and to share the everyday realities of creative life makes a real difference.

Last year, we created our first collaborative piece inspired by the seals who frequent the shores nearby and the pull of the sun and moon on the tides of Strangford Lough. It felt like the beginning of something new — deeply rooted in place.

Call of the Sea, a collaboration between Ann Smyth and Charlene Rooney

Thirteen years on, Castle Ward still feels like a privilege.

If you are visiting Castle Ward, exploring County Down, or simply looking to experience a working artist’s studio, you are very welcome to step inside.

Charlene working on one of her fabulous seal sculptures

Working on a collection of hand painted glass roundels using traditional glass painting techniques