Dating from as far back as 1860, Mount Usher Gardens are one of the top-rated attractions in Ireland. The gardens have many plant species and trees including rhododendrons, magnolias, camellias, eucryphia and shrubs.
Designed in the Robinsonian-style, Mount Usher Gardens feature water as an essential part of the scenery, with cascades and a suspension bridge visible from many sections. Take a journey through winding paths, groves and glades and on to the riverbanks. A collection of eucalyptus trees and a hidden fern walk are just some of the delights that you’ll find there.
A delightful, award-winning garden, Caher Bridge Garden is nestled in the heart of the Burren near Fanore. The garden is based around a restored riverside cottage and was created from what was dense hazel and blackthorn greenery.
Stroll through this idyllic place and admire the unusual plants including large collections of snowdrops and daffodils, hostas, daylilies, crocosmia and woodland plants and ferns. Included in the Top 100 Best Gardens in Ireland, it is open throughout the year by appointment only.
Visit these fascinating gardens near Glengarriff. The Ewe Experience and Sculpture Garden is a unique combination of natural history, art, narrative and humour. Journey through four themed gardens – water, time, the environment and ancient earth - and enjoy the interactive sculptures. Visitors of all ages can relax and explore this creative space that’s built along a spectacular waterfall.
Wander the meandering pathways over bridges and into hidden corners and see how the words and art are woven throughout the winding trail. Amble the fern labyrinth, pass the time with the human sundial or build your own sculpture.
Covering nearly seven acres, Kilmokea Country Manor Gardens date back to 1947. Visit the walled garden with winding paths and its showcase of exciting exotic plants. With over 130 different species, the garden is a delight to keen amateurs and more serious horticulturalists.
A guided tour of the garden is available for groups but must be booked in advance. This tour includes information on the history of the house and garden as well as the Anglo-Norman homestead, Viking settlement and monastic site, all of which were on the grounds of Kilmokea.
Just outside the picturesque village of Inistioge, you’ll find Woodstock Gardens. The gardens overlook the River Nore Valley and were developed in the Victorian Period, with the works being overseen by Lady Louisa Tighe and her head gardeners.
Woodstock Gardens have a mix of formal and informal gardens, with an arboretum, walled garden, terraced garden, yew walk and rose garden.
Two stunning avenues are of significance, the Monkey Puzzle Avenue and Noble Fir Avenue. Take time to see the rustic summer house, constructed from materials from the gardens. The arboretum is home to many fine specimen trees from Asia and South America in particular. Guided tours are available by appointment.
This arboretum and walled and pleasure gardens are part of Fota House which is seen as Ireland’s finest example of Regency period architecture with superb neoclassical interiors designed by 19th-century architects.
Fota House gives visitors an intimate look at how life was lived in the past, whether as a servant or as a member of the gentry. Take tours of the Arboretum and visit the fascinating Victorian Frameyard kitchen garden. Tours are available from April to September and by appointment at other times.
The ancestral home of the Earls of Bantry, Bantry House and Gardens overlooks Bantry Bay in West Cork. Since 1946 the house and garden have been open to the public. See the garden that was inspired by the travels of the 2nd Earl and laid out in the Italian style over seven terraces, with the house sitting on the third terrace.
A Parterre facing south surrounding a wisteria circle which again surrounds a fountain was also created. From there rise the famous Hundred Steps, a monumental staircase built of local stone, set amidst azaleas and rhododendron.
Less than 200m from the sea, just outside Mountcharles, you’ll find Salthill Gardens. This contemporary garden whispers stories of walled gardens of the past. The walls have stood for more than 100 years and have been well maintained. Since 1985, the lawn and cultivated perimeter have been gradually transformed by Elizabeth Temple to the present individually styled garden.
Come visit and see the evolution which continues to change season by season and always features a good selection of perennials, vegetables and shrubs.
By the shores of Lough Derg, the impressive Portumna Castle and Gardens casts a shadow on the peaceful lawns. Admire the spectacular architecture of the castle, with plenty of exhibits to show how the aristocracy lived 300 years ago, or spend a warm day strolling through the gardens.
Wander the Willow Maze and enjoy the shade of fruit trees and the scent of lavender, or browse the flowers, herbs, hollies, and vegetables in the potager gardens, which have been beautifully restored to their original splendour.
June Blake spent over a decade devoting her time to creating an experimental and contemporary garden. Make a trip to West Wicklow and discover this exciting garden which is in the grounds of an early Victorian steward’s house and farmyard. Surrounded by mature trees and meadows, the gardens themselves extend over three acres and contain an eclectic collection of plants from around the world.
See exciting, bold herbaceous plants, ferns, grasses bamboos and other choice woodland plants punctuated by enormous granite boulders. For a moment of reflection make your way to the linear pool amidst exciting tropical plants.
Inspired by the manicured gardens of Mr Lionel de Rothchild, Mount Congreve Gardens was built in 1760 by local architect John Roberts. Open all year round, Mount Congreve Gardens is home to one of the largest private plant collections in the world, including the incredibly rare Wollemia Tree which is native to Australia.
Brush up your botanical knowledge by picking from a selection of expert-led guided tours, from the edible woodlands tour to a relaxing stroll in the formal gardens. Or enjoy a delicious meal made from local produce at the Stables Café in the heart of the grounds.
High on the list of every garden lover is a visit to the National Botanical Gardens in Dublin. Just a short distance from the city centre, these peaceful and enchanting gardens are a slice of paradise in the capital. See towering native trees, ornamental grasses and greenhouses full of succulents and cacti. Stroll around the grounds, savouring the beautiful scents and scenery, before enjoying refreshments in The Garden Tearoom.
The Powerscourt Gardens in Wicklow are truly spectacular. Surrounded by the magnificent Powerscourt House, the classically designed gardens are meticulously maintained and beautifully contrast the wild vistas of the Wicklow Mountains in the distance. Explore the Japanese garden, the walled garden and the Italian garden, and if you're craving more natural beauty, visit the nearby and awe inspiring Powerscourt Waterfall.
Known as one of the finest Japanese gardens in Europe, the lush landscape at The National Stud delights visitors with its delicate plants, rich colours and trickling streams. Built over 100 years ago, the garden's iconic red bridge is a firm favourite while kids love to chase butterflies and search for insects amongst the shrubbery. Finish off your day by visiting the majestic horses and watch them gallop across the open fields.
Slow down, take time out and find your new favourite Irish garden, creating special memories along the way. Don’t forget to pop over to our Things to Do page and discover more beautiful gardens across the country.
