In early April, the gardens at Kilmacurragh are marked by the splendour of their two centuries old Rhododendron collection bursting into flower. The significance of these venerable trees is down to the site’s long association with the National Botanic Gardens at Glasnevin. The Acton family, who built Kilmacurragh, established a long and fruitful friendship with David Moore and later his son Sir Frederick Moore, successive curators at Glasnevin.  From the early 1850s, the Moore’s advised the Acton family on gardening matters and supplied the latest introductions of the great plant hunters, particularly from the Himalayan range.  For over 70 years a regular exchange of plants resulted in Kilmacurragh becoming one of the best stocked private gardens in Ireland.  Today the collection boasts 180 species of rhododendrons and over 420 varieties. Since taking over the management of the site in 1996, the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland have both restored, and greatly expanded the collection.

Directions: Located just 5km off the N11 (Dublin to Wexford Road) at Junction 18 (near the old Beehive pub/The Wilds)

Website: National Botanic Garden of Ireland – Kilmacurragh | Heritage Ireland

Enquiries/bookings:  kilmacurraghgardens@opw.ie and +353 404 48844

Eircode: A67 YR12

Free guided tours take place at 12noon and 3pm every day from mid March to mid October.

Tours can also be booked outside these times.

Suitable outdoor clothing/footwear advised.

Booking is essential for all bus/coach tours.
Please note there is no parking outside the gardens.

Opening times:        Mid February – October 09:00 – 17:00 (Last Admission 16:30)

1 November – Mid February 09:00 – 16:30 (Last admission 16:00)

Gardens are closed on Christmas Day

The Acton Café at Kilmacurragh:  Contact details – kilmacurragh@brambles.ie or +353 404 48842