Most days, I find myself glued to a computer screen in a stuffy office, where the hours blend and the life seems to drain out of me. The constant buzz of emails and meetings can feel overwhelming, leaving little room for the beauty of nature in my daily routine.
I dream of escaping to lush gardens filled with vibrant flowers and serene landscapes during those moments. If you’re like me and crave a break from the ordinary, you’ll want to discover the magic of Ireland’s most beautiful gardens.
In this article, I’ve gathered a list of enchanting spots that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your love for nature. Join me on this journey and find out which gardens are worth exploring!
1. Iveagh Gardens
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Website: http://www.iveaghgardens.ie/
Address: St Stephen’s Green, Park, Dublin 2, D02 HX65, Ireland
Contact details: +35314757816
Operating hours: 8 AM–7:30 PM
Iveagh Gardens, often called Dublin’s “Secret Garden,” was designed by talented landscape architect Ninian Niven in 1865. It started as part of an earl’s estate and eventually became the Dublin Exhibition Palace.
What interests me is how the gardens blend seamlessly. This cool mix of French formality and English landscape design is everywhere, with charming features like a restored rockwork fountain and classical statues.
In 2019, they snagged the Green Flag award. There’s something so soothing about watching the water flow over rocks from all 32 counties of Ireland, especially in the summer. It’s the perfect hideaway for a picnic or to soak in the peaceful vibe.
Pro tip:
Head to the sunken lawn near the Earlsfort Terrace entrance. It’s visually stunning and steeped in history, as it was once used for archery in Victorian times.
2. Garinish Island
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Website: http://garinishisland.ie/
Address: Garnish Island, Co. Cork, Ireland
Contact details: +353872345861
Garinish Island, or Ilnacullin as it’s sometimes called, is about 15 hectares, but its micro-climate makes it special. Thanks to the Gulf Stream’s warmth, a whole world of exotic plants is thriving there.
Over a century ago, a guy named Annan Bryce teamed up with a garden designer named Harold Peto to create this lush paradise. In 1953, the island was bequeathed to the Irish people. It means that its beauty is meant to be enjoyed for generations.
You have to check out the Italian Garden. It’s filled with Mediterranean plants like cypress and lemon trees. It feels like you’ve stepped into a different world, especially when you find that central fountain surrounded by climbing vines.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss capturing the stunning views from the Italian Pavilion, where you can frame the gardens and the serene waters of Bantry Bay in one shot.
3. Belvedere House and Gardens
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Website: http://www.belvedere-house.ie/
Address: Belvidere, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
Contact details: +353449338960
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
Belvedere House and Gardens was built in 1740 as a hunting lodge for Robert Rochfort, the first Earl of Belvedere. Its architecture is stunning—think of Richard Cassels’s beautiful Palladian style.
As I walked around, I couldn’t help but admire the exquisite Diocletian windows and Rococo plasterwork. It’s no wonder that about 160,000 people visit yearly to soak up the history and enjoy the gorgeous grounds.
The Victorian walled garden was just bursting with vibrant flowers, and I found myself wandering for what felt like hours. And there’s a café on-site where you can grab a coffee while enjoying views over Lough Ennell.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss out on capturing stunning photos—one of my favorite spots is right by the Jealous Wall, where you can frame both the wall and the picturesque lake in your shot.
4. Blarney Castle and Gardens
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Website: https://blarneycastle.ie/
Address: Blarney, Cork, Ireland
Contact details: +353214385252
Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM
Blarney Castle and Gardens was built back in 1446 by Cormac MacCarthy. The place is most famous for the legendary Blarney Stone, which is supposed to give you the gift of gab if you kiss it.
The gardens span around 60 acres. I wandered through the Fern Garden, which felt like stepping into a secret world, and then into the Poison Garden, where I learned about all the plants known for their toxicity.
While there, I enjoyed some time at the Stable Yard Café, where they serve this delicious loganberry ice cream. I also loved walking along the lakeside paths, soaking in the vibrant colors of the arboretums.
Pro tip:
Head to the top of the castle battlements. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the sprawling gardens below. It’s an iconic spot that perfectly captures the essence of Blarney Castle.
5. Airfield Estate
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Website: https://www.airfield.ie/
Address: Overend Ave, Dundrum, Dublin 14, D14 EE77, Ireland
Contact details: +35319696666
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM
Airfield Estate is this stunning blend of a working farm and gardens that sprawls over 38 acres! It all started in 1974 with the Overend family, who set it up as a charitable organization, and now it’s turned into this vibrant spot for education and recreation.
The gardens cover more than six acres! The Walled Garden features meticulously curated gardens with a vibrant herbaceous border, a beautifully restored Victorian glasshouse, and an organic food garden.
I loved wandering through the meadows, losing track of time while appreciating all the intricate details in the plant collections. You can also explore walking trails through native woodlands or experience farm life, such as collecting eggs or milking cows.
Pro tip:
Head to the Walled Garden. The decorative pergola adorned with climbing roses creates an enchanting backdrop that captures the essence of this beautiful estate.
6. Powerscourt House & Gardens
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Website: https://powerscourt.com/
Address: Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow, Ireland
Contact details: +35312046000
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–5 PM
Powerscourt House & Gardens is sprawling over 47 acres and is famous for its gardens. National Geographic ranked them as the third-best gardens in the world!
It started as a 13th-century castle and underwent a major makeover in the 18th century. Today, it is a stunning testament to Ireland’s landscape artistry, featuring over 200 varieties of trees, shrubs, and flowers.
I was mesmerized by the Italian and Japanese gardens. Imagine wandering through the Japanese garden, where the paths twist and turn, leading you to tucked-away grottos and peaceful ponds with colorful koi fish swimming around.
Pro tip:
Head to the Italian Garden, where you can capture the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain in the background. This scene perfectly encapsulates the beauty of Ireland.
7. Derreen Gardens
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Website: http://www.derreengarden.com/
Address: Derreen Garden Lauragh, Beara, Co. Kerry, V93 D792, Ireland
Contact details: +353831662160
Operating hours: 10 AM–6 PM
Derreen Gardens is spread over 60 acres. Its incredible story started in 1863 when the 4th Marquess of Lansdowne decided to create it. But his son, the 5th Marquess, warned the garden into the lush paradise it is today.
As you wander around, you’ll find nearly 12 kilometers of winding paths that take you through a stunning array of exotic plants. Many of these beauties were brought back from his travels as Viceroy of India and Governor General of Canada.
The rhododendrons and tree ferns thrive in the mild, damp coastal climate. I loved wandering around, admiring the unique plants, and soaking in the views over Kilmakilloge Harbour and the Caha Mountains.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the opportunity to take photos at the viewpoint overlooking Kilmakilloge Harbour. The interplay of light and water there is magical, especially at sunset!
8. Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden
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Website: https://www.kylemoreabbey.com/
Address: Pollacappul, Co. Galway, Ireland
Contact details: +3539552001
Operating hours: 10 AM–5 PM
Kylemore Abbey was built in 1867 by Mitchell Henry as a romantic gesture for his wife. The estate sprawls over about 1,000 acres, and it’s just stunning—mountains, lakes, and magical scenery that perfectly reflects the grandeur of the Abbey.
The Victorian Walled Garden, one of Ireland’s last walled gardens built during the Victorian era, covers six acres. I also learned about these innovative heating systems used to nurture exotic plants.
The best time to experience it all is spring or summer. The garden just bursts into bloom, and the weather is ideal for outdoor spending. You can enjoy a lovely walk by the lakes or pop into the Tea Rooms for delicious homemade treats.
Pro tip:
Head to the spot just outside the Walled Garden, where you can capture the Abbey and its reflection in Lough Pollacappul. This hidden gem showcases nature’s beauty and tells a story of love and resilience that resonates deeply with every visitor.
9. Birr Castle Demense
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Website: https://birrcastle.com/
Address: Rosse Row, Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 V027, Ireland
Contact details: +353579120336
Operating hours: 9 AM–4 PM
Birr Castle Demesne in County Offaly dates back to the 12th century, but what’s cool is how the Parsons family has called it home since the early 17th century. One of the standout features there has to be the gardens.
They’re award-winning and have over 5,000 rare plant species, collected from all over the world over the past 150 years. The place sprawls across 120 acres, and I loved wandering the peaceful paths next to rivers and lakes.
There are even charming waterfalls! One of my favorite moments was strolling through the beautifully kept formal gardens Anne, the Countess of Rosse, planted in 1936.
Pro tip:
Head to the Moat Walk. It offers stunning views of the castle and the river Camcor, especially during golden hour when everything is bathed in warm light.
10. Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
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Website: https://www.hrp.org.uk/hillsborough-castle/
Address: The Square, Hillsborough BT26 6AG, United Kingdom
Contact details: +443333206000
Operating hours: 10 AM–4 PM
Hillsborough Castle and Gardens are beautifully landscaped and extend over 100 acres. They have a perfect mix of ornamental lawns, woodlands, and charming little glens. One of the highlights is the Walled Garden.
It’s been a space for cultivating fruits and vegetables since the 18th century, which I find fascinating. Also, this magical Yew Tree Walk made me feel like I was in a fairytale.
If you’re visiting with kids, check out the Imaginary Menagerie play trail! Letting your imagination run wild while discovering the animal-themed installations scattered throughout the garden is so much fun.
Pro tip:
Head to the Walled Garden for a photo opportunity. Its historical charm and lush greenery create a stunning backdrop that captures the essence of this beautiful estate.