National Botanic Gardens - Kilmacurragh

In the heart of the garden county of Ireland, Kilmacurragh is home to one of the most important plant collections in the country. The garden dates from the early 18th century and restoration work of this old estate has been ongoing for a number of years under the careful management of the National Botanic Gardens Glasnevin, National Historic Properties. Explore a hidden gem in the garden county of Ireland. Walk through the pathways strewn with rhododendron petals in Spring. Discover avenues of ancient oaks and yews as well as young palms and monkey puzzles. See the double herbaceous border in Summer. Explore the wildflower meadows and their changing flora of snowdrops, crocuses, narcissi and native orchids all growing in tapestries of wild flowers and grasses. Visit the Acton café or bring a picnic and enjoy the vistas of the garden and the Wicklow countryside. Within a 100 acre Victorian plant collectors’ garden, 21st century conservation and planting have focused on innovative new schemes including the monkey puzzle avenue, the Chilean ravine and the fossil lawn, as well as species rich meadows throughout the garden and over 5km of native hedgerow on the boundaries. With the recent acquisition of the former Deer Park and the walled garden, plans are now being made to further develop the garden in keeping with its past while also looking to the future. The 300 year old Queen Anne style house at the heart of the estate is still standing although in disrepair. There is also evidence that a monastic community was established by Saint Mochorog on the site in the early 7th century with the abbey surviving until the early 16th century.

Wicklow