National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh
An oasis of rare horticultural delights
09:00 - 17:00
Limited Access
Social distancing: 2 metre rule applies; gates may be closed if numbers get too high.
Admission
Free admission
National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh
There was a monastery at Kilmacurragh, in this tranquil corner of County Wicklow, in the seventh century, and a religious foundation remained right up until the dissolution of the monasteries. After Cromwell invaded the land passed to the Acton family.
By the time the estate came to Thomas Acton in 1854, an unprecedented period of botanical and geographical exploration was afoot. In collaboration with the curators of the National Botanic Gardens, Acton built a new and pioneering garden.
In 1996, a 21-hectare portion of the old demesne officially became part of the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland. The following ten years were spent giving the estate’s rare and beautiful plants a new lease of life.
Kilmacurragh is now part of the National Botanic Gardens, providing a complementary collection of plants to its parent garden at Glasnevin. Arrive in spring to witness the transformation of the walks, as fallen rhododendron blossoms form a stunning magenta carpet.
Gallery
Opening Times
Open all Year
Average Length of Visit: 1 hour
Last admission 30 minutes before closing
Seasonal Opening Times
- Mid November – Mid February
Daily 09.00 – 16.00
- Mid February – Mid November
Daily 09:00 – 17:00
Notice
Free Guided tours daily at 12:00 and 15:00, limited to 6 persons. Places may be booked at 0404 48844.
Social distancing: 2 metre rule applies; gates may be closed if numbers get too high.
Contact
Kilbride
Co. Wicklow
A67 YR12
0404 48844 / 01 8570909
botanicgardens@opw.ie
Facilities
- Cafe
- Car park
- Coach parking
- Guided tours
- Picnic Area
Restrictions
- Appropriate footwear
Nearby sites to visit
National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh
Glendalough Visitor Centre
A valley of sanctuary for saints and scholars
Approx. 14.9 km from National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh
Dwyer McAllister Cottage
An unlikely battle-site of the 1798 Rebellion
Approx. 28.2 km from National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh
Pearse Museum – St. Enda’s Park
An enthralling chapter in the story of 1916
Approx. 40.3 km from National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh