Coole Park was once the home of Lady Augusta Gregory (1852 - 1932) -- a famous dramatist, co-founder of the Abbey Theatre in Ireland and a friend of the poet William Butler Yeats. Coole Park is now a national park open to the public all year round. Marked nature trails weave through many different specimens of trees and plants, many of which were imported from abroad by the Gregorys. A map for self-guided walks in the estate is available at the Visitor Centre for a nominal fee and guided tours can be arranged for pre-booked groups. The grounds are is also famous for the autograph tree in its grounds, with signatures of John Masefield, George Bernard Shaw, Sean O'Casey, John Millington Synge and Douglas Hyde. The park is located approx 3km north of Gort on the N18 road. A coffee shop provides light lunches during the summer season. Admission to the park is free. Admission to the visitor centre (2006 prices): Adult EUR 2.90; Concession EUR 2.10; Child EUR 1.30; Family EUR 7.40.