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Victorian walled gardens and tropical greenhouses: 6 stunning Irish botanical sites to visit
A guide to Ireland’s beautiful gardens to inspire budding gardeners of all ages.
“I MUST HAVE flowers, always, and always,” said the French Impressionist painter, Claude Monet.
People have travelled across the world to stand before Monet’s beautiful paintings of idyllic gardens and ponds decorated with delicate water lilies. These tranquil scenes are as transportive and endlessly inspiring as the act of gardening, itself.
In Ireland, up and down the country, there are countless gardens to visit (the majority of which are open to the public and free to roam around) with the same splendour of the stunning sites Monet captured across his work.
Exploring Ireland’s gardens, and the stately buildings they often surround, make for a great weekend activity for families, casual walks and budding garden enthusiasts. As the weather continues to get warmer as we edge closer to summer, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most spectacular gardens to visit in Ireland in the coming months.
Killruddery House and Gardens, Co Wicklow
What: On the outskirts of Bray’s beautiful surroundings, the stately Killruddery House is steeped in history as it has remained in the Brabazon family for over 400 years. Today, the heritage of the house and grounds remains intact with elements of its 17th-century walled gardens providing a striking space to roam. There’s so much to enjoy within these spectacular 800 acres (only a short drive from Dublin’s city centre) and is an idyllic spot to visit at weekends to stock up on delicious fresh produce from their sustainably run farm and have a bit to eat at their Pizza Shed.
Where: Kilruddery Demesne West, Bray, Co. Wicklow
Muckross House & Gardens, Co Kerry
What: Overlooking the vast Muckross Lake and the commanding landscape of Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens is a truly breathtaking site. Built in 1839, the mansion was initially constructed for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife Mary Balfour Herbert, a painter who often captured the beautiful environment encompassing the estate in her watercolours. Once construction on the house was completed in 1843, work then moved to develop the gardens which continue to blossom in an abundance of colourful flowers and shrubs. As well as taking in Muckross’ gorgeous gardens, there’s so much to enjoy and appreciate in the local craftwork such as Mucros weavers and Mucros pottery.
Where: Dromyrourk, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Kilmokea Country House & Gardens, Co Wexford
What: The danger of stepping onto the tranquil site of Kilmokea Country House and Gardens, is that you’ll want to stay there forever. Surrounding the cosy Manor House, are extraordinary gardens that have been developed to rejuvenate everyone who passes through its spectacular horticulture. In particular, Kilmokea provides a unique experience called Forest Bathing in which the woodland surroundings act as a calming stimulant for the senses. This outdoor-based activity to reconnect with nature and restore one’s energy is then best followed by a stroll to observe all their seasonal flowers in full bloom.
Where: Kilmokea Gardens, Greatisland, Campile, Co. Wexford, Y34 TH58
Garinish Island, Co Cork
What: Known by a few names, Garinish and Ilnacullin, this magical island situated in Glengarriff Bay, Co Cork will instantly amaze visitors. Contained within 37 acres, there’s so much to explore on the plush grounds whose flora are enhanced by the micro-climate. Aside from the colourful array of flowers and stately trees scattered across the gardens, there are a number of interesting pieces of architecture such as a Martello Tower, a Grecian Temple and a clock tower. The thoughtful design of Garinish undoubtedly inspired some of its guests over the years, notably the writer George Bernard Shaw. This is a popular attraction so be sure to plan ahead and book your visit to this stunning garden.
Where: Garinish Island (Ilnacullin), Glengariff, Bantry, Co. Cork
The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, Co Dublin
What: Amongst the many free activities to do in Dublin, nothing beats a trip to the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin. From the tropical plants in the astonishing historic greenhouses and the splendid rose gardens to the art gallery and cafe, there’s so much to do during your visit to the Botanic Gardens which makes it a perfect weekend spot for family trips. It should also be a top priority for anyone planning a trip to the capital city to visit, especially due to its close proximity to Glasnevin Cemetery.
Where: Glasnevin, Dublin 9, D09 VY63
Kylemore Abbey Victorian Walled Garden, Co Galway
What: Ireland’s west is home to a myriad of magnificent sites, perhaps one of the most extraordinary landmarks is the majestic Kylemore Abbey which is nestled in the plush forestry at the foot of Druchruach Mountain. The site of the Abbey, which dates back to 1868, has been home to the Benedictine order and today welcomes guests to explore the incredible interiors as well as the remarkable Victorian Walled garden which contains several glasshouses, vibrant flower beds, vegetable patches and is subtly soundtracked by the trickling water of the mountain’s stream. This is an unmissable Connemara landmark that must be seen to be believed.
Where: Kylemore Abbey, Pollacappul, Co. Galway
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