Formal gardens and lake
Lawns bisected by sculpted yews slope down to a lake surrounded by rare trees and rhododendrons - the centrepiece of the garden and the clearest expression of its 'honest simplicity' design.
Altamont Gardens
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About
A 16-hectare estate on the banks of the River Slaney, where lawns and sculpted yews tumble down to a lake ringed by rare trees, and a shaded glen leads to a riverside walk. Laid out in the naturalistic style of William Robinson, it is one of Ireland's most loved gardens.
Things to Do
Altamont House
The old country house at the heart of the estate was home to Corona North, who developed the gardens over decades and left them to the State on her death in 1999. Ongoing care is by the Office of Public Works.
The Arboretum
A mature collection of native and exotic trees, best known for its ancient oaks and rhododendrons, threaded by sheltered tree tunnels and woodland paths.
Ice Age Glen and River Slaney walk
A steep descent through the Ice Age Glen, under a canopy of ancient oaks and past huge stone outcrops, leads down to a riverside walk on the banks of the River Slaney.
Snowdrop season
From the end of January and throughout February the gardens hold one of the largest snowdrop collections in Ireland, with guided tours of the display on weekdays.
Walled garden cafe and plant sales
The Walled Cafe (Sugar & Spice) serves coffee, tea, scones, homemade cakes, salads and sandwiches, with takeaway available, and Altamont Plant Sales sells plants grown in the garden.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open all year, 7 days including bank holidays. January 09:00-16:00; February 09:00-16:30; March 09:00-17:00; April-September 09:00-18:30; October 09:00-17:00; November 09:00-16:30; December 09:00-16:00. Closed Christmas Day. Last entry 30 minutes before closing. Gardens may close in severe weather - phone ahead.
- Admission: Free admission; €2 car parking per vehicle
- Parking: €2 car parking per vehicle, Pay & Display, with car and coach parking on site.
- Food: The Walled Cafe (Sugar & Spice) in the walled garden serves light snacks, coffee, tea, scones, homemade cakes, salads and sandwiches, with takeaway; open daily. There is also an outdoor picnic area.
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