Stroll the Broad Walk
Planted with alternating rows of crimson and white rhododendrons and Irish yew, this is the garden's showpiece. Jane Acton had a hand in planting it in the early 1870s and it is at its best in April.
National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh
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About
A free, 100-acre Victorian plant collectors' garden in east Wicklow, famed for its two-century-old rhododendrons, ancient oaks and tranquil wildflower meadows — and far quieter than its Dublin sister garden at Glasnevin.
Things to Do
See the Victorian double herbaceous borders
Kilmacurragh's renowned Victorian double borders have been restored by the National Botanic Gardens. In summer they burst with bright, exotic herbaceous plants.
Wander the wildflower meadows
Tapestries of wild flowers and grasses change through the seasons, with snowdrops, crocuses, narcissi and native orchids appearing among them.
Find the ancient trees
Discover avenues of ancient oaks and yews, including Monk's Walk along an old pilgrim road to Glendalough, plus the Fossil Lawn where monkey puzzles and maidenhair trees sit beside their relatives the wollemi and kauri pines.
Join a free guided tour
Free guided tours run daily at 12:00 and 15:00 from mid-March to mid-October. Booking is essential for all bus and coach tours; free school tours are also available on request.
Marvel at the rhododendrons
The collection dates back over two centuries and now holds 180 species and over 420 varieties, many grown from Himalayan seed. Early April is the time to see them in full bloom, when fallen blossoms carpet the walks.
Refresh at the Acton Café
The on-site café, run by Brambles, is open daily with indoor seating and an outdoor patio, serving coffee, cake, quiches, sandwiches and salads.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Mid February to October: 09:00-17:00 (last admission 16:30). 1 November to mid February: 09:00-16:30 (last admission 16:00).
- Admission: Free admission
- Parking: Free car park on site (coach parking also provided). The OPW notes there is no parking on the road outside the gardens.
- Food: The Acton Café offers coffee and lunches on site. You can also bring a picnic and use the picnic area.
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