Always wanted to visit the Emerald Isle? If you love gardens as much as we do, a trip to Ireland is a truly unmissable experience. From heritage estates to iconic castles and rugged natural beauty, there are so many unique gardens that await.

Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best gardens to visit in Ireland. Let’s take a look at some of the best and brightest destinations on offer.

The Beautiful Gardens of Ireland: A Brief Overview

Although many people naturally associate Ireland with cosy pubs and castles, this region is brimming with a wide range of stunning landscapes and beautifully curated gardens. Of course, its fertile ecosystem has paved the way for a great variety of native plant species to thrive, including the likes of the Bee Orchid, Blacken, Bluebell, Dandelion, Foxglove, Hawthorn, Herb Robert, Holly, and countless more.

In addition to its gardens (both small and expansive), there’s also the chance to marvel at remarkable coastlines, rock formations, rolling hills, and forests. Although some regions have a familiar feel, the native landscapes represent a stark contrast to what we experience back home in Australia.

Now, without any further ado, let’s begin our journey through some of the finest gardens in Ireland. 

Mount Stewart – A Fairytale Garden

Nestled in the heart of County Down, Mount Stewart (pictured above) is a fairytale garden come to life. Built in 1921 by Edith, Lady Londonderry, Charles Vane-Tempest-Stewart and a workforce of WW1 ex-servicemen, the garden was originally designed as a series of compartmentalised spaces that each offered something unique. 

Edith’s Italian Garden, Spanish Garden, Shamrock Garden, and the whimsical Dodo Terrace (with humorous Portland cement creatures), are just a few highlights of this sprawling estate. The National Trust now preserves this magnificent space, where visitors can step back in time and immerse themselves in the historical significance of the site.

Designed by award-winning garden designer Diarmuid, the King Charles Coronation Garden, Gavin is another must-see feature of Mount Stewart. This area is filled with symbolism, marking a significant historical event with its bold design and rich plant life. 

Rowallane Garden – A Plant Hunter’s Paradise

Also located in the stunning Drumlin country of County Down, Rowallane Garden is a treasure trove of plant varieties. After being established by Rev John Moore in 1858, it was later developed by his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore, who had a keen interest in collecting plants from around the world. 

The garden is now home to an extensive collection of rare and unique plants, including rhododendrons, daffodils, and many varieties of trees and shrubs. Featuring meandering paths and hidden corners, this is an excellent place to explore.

One of the most iconic features of Rowallane Garden is its Edwardian Rock Garden, which has a stunning display of alpine plants, as well as a relaxing and serene Water Garden. Put simply, Rowallane is a must-see destination for anyone with an appreciation for horticulture. 

Giant’s Causeway – Nature’s Masterpiece

No trip to Northern Ireland would be complete without visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site known as the Giant’s Causeway. Located along the rugged Antrim Coast, this stunning geological formation consists of thousands of hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.

The unique rock formations are a striking natural phenomenon that draws in visitors from around the world. As you walk along the Causeway, a sense of awe and wonder grows with every step, and the views over the crashing waves below only add to the grandeur of the site.

The Giant’s Causeway is also surrounded by the echoes of Irish myths and legends. According to local legend, the columns were built by the giant Finn McCool (aka Fionn Mac Cumhaill) after a confrontation with fellow giant Benandonner. 

Already excited to visit? Learn all about our Ireland Garden Tours here.

Powerscourt Gardens – A Grand Garden in the Heart of Ireland

If you’re planning to visit County Wicklow (located below the capital of Dublin), keep Powerscourt Gardens at the top of your to-do list. The gardens, which cover just over 47 acres, feature a mix of formal and informal spaces, with plenty of diverse landscapes to explore. 

Highlights of the garden include the Italian Garden, Japanese Garden, and the stunning walled garden with its vibrant herbaceous borders. Every section of the garden has been carefully designed to complement each other, and this really creates a harmonious flow from space to space.

Powerscourt Gardens is a testament to the art of garden design, with its carefully curated landscapes offering visitors a chance to experience a unique blend of horticultural beauty, breathtaking nature, and landscaping ingenuity.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden – A Slice of Heaven

Next up, we have Kylemore Abbey, a majestic building that offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s history. Originally completed in 1871 as a castle for a wealthy couple, the estate’s Victorian Walled Garden is now one of the largest and most impressive in the country. 

The garden once featured 21 interconnected heated glasshouses, which housed everything from grapevines to fruits, palms, and even banana houses. Although the estate has changed hands over the years, its restoration by a community of Benedictine nuns in the early 20th century brought it back to life as a popular tourist attraction.

The Victorian Walled Garden at Kylemore Abbey is a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the gardeners who once worked there. These days, the garden is a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Trust us when we say it’s not a destination you don’t want to miss!

Caher Bridge Garden – The Flora of the Burren

Located within another UNESCO heritage site, we have the Caher Bridge Garden; a beautiful space that showcases the stunning flora of this unique environment. Designed by plantsman Carl Wright, the garden is situated within a restored riverside cottage that forms part of a larger nature reserve. 

Carl’s extensive knowledge of the Burren’s flora is evident throughout the garden, where you can witness a variety of native plants thriving alongside exotic species. The diverse plant life, combined with the beauty of the surrounding Burren region, converges to create a relaxed yet captivating setting.

The garden gives visitors a chance to see how plants from different climates coexist in harmony, making it an ideal destination for those interested in sustainable gardening and native plant conservation. 

Ring of Kerry – A Garden at the Heart of Nature

A bewitching 179 km circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry is justifiably famous for its breathtaking views, with dramatic mountains, valleys, and rugged coastline. Along this scenic route, there are several beautiful gardens, including the one at the Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa in Killarney. The hotel garden offers a serene atmosphere where guests can enjoy a vibrant array of plants while taking in panoramic views of the Iveragh Peninsula. 

The gardens along the Ring of Kerry reflect the natural beauty of the region, and many of them make the most of their surroundings to offer unique experiences. The Aghadoe Heights Hotel garden, for example, uses its location to enhance the visitor’s experience, creating a sense of connection between the garden and the surrounding nature.

With its majestic scenery and beautiful gardens, the Ring of Kerry is an unforgettable part of any Irish adventure.

Garinish Island – A Garden Paradise in West Cork

After a visit to Garinish Island, it’s hard to imagine that you’re in Ireland and not a villa somewhere in Europe. Designed by Harold Peto and developed by Annan Bryce, the gardens here combine sub-tropical foliage with formal garden structures that create an exotic setting.

The island is home to a variety of plants, including palm trees, bamboo, and lush Mediterranean species, making it a unique destination for garden lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. As a result, these gardens have become the perfect example of how careful planning and a love of horticulture can transform a space into a paradise.

The combination of lush greenery, delicate blooms, and coastal vistas creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s just perfect for relaxation. 

Ballymaloe Cookery School Garden – The Heart of Irish Cuisine

Situated in County Cork, the Ballymaloe Cookery School is well renowned for its exceptional culinary courses, but its gardens are equally impressive. These gardens feature a stunning display of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, all grown with love, care, and attention to organic principles. A guided tour of the gardens is an essential part of any visit to Ballymaloe, offering visitors a chance to see where the school’s produce is grown.

The Ballymaloe Cookery School Garden is a shining example of sustainable gardening practices in action, and it serves as an educational resource for anyone interested in organic farming. If you too are passionate about food and farming, a visit to the garden is an inspiring experience that highlights the importance of growing food in harmony with nature.

Visit Ireland with Ross Tours

Although we’ve been operating for more than 40 years, we‘re still driven by a passion to bring you access to the world’s best and most beautiful gardens. Our 15-day Ireland Garden Tours take you on an unforgettable journey to the Emerald Isle and back, all led by horticulturist, landscape designer and presenter Colin Barlow.

Book now or contact us to learn more!