e gardens of Carlow are a spectacular show of nature. Blessed with a lush, gently undulating landscape, the county is speckled with grand estate houses, formal gardens and extensive parklands and forests waiting to be discovered.

And as we are all eager to get out and about again they make for a really great day’s entertainment in relaxing and spacioussurroundings. ere are so many great places to explore, from the fabulous Altamont Gardens and Plant Sales Area to the gothic mansion and walled gardens of Duckett’s Grove and the stunning Huntington Castle and Gardens. en there’s Ireland’s largest garden centre, Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven in Leighlinbridge, the inspiring Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow Town and a number of owner gardens where visitors can meet and learn from some of the best gardeners countrywide.

As Ireland’s big house capital, Carlow offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy some of the great manor houses that oncedominated the cultural, social and agricultural life of the county. Beyond the impressive facades of these ancestral homes, visitors can walk in the footsteps of fascinating historical figures and take in the sumptuous splendour of some of the most significant homes in Irish history. Whether you’re strolling through beautifully landscaped historical gardens or marvelling at interiors that have survived for centuries, you’ll be swept away by the magic of these very special Carlow treasures.

ere are nineteen great gardens, garden centres and forest parks on the Carlow Garden Trail for you to enjoy. Here’s a taster of some of them to plan your gardening break this year – visit www.carlowgardentrail.com for more details including information on great accommodation options. Make sure to check for current opening times on the individual websites and social media pages of each premises.

blooming gardens and great houses

carlow garden trail

Altamont Gardens and Altamont Plant Sales, Tullow, Co. Carlow R93 N882t: 059–9159444 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com Start off your day with a visit to Altamont Gardens – this gem is often referred to as the most romantic garden in Ireland. You can’t fail to be charmed by the glistening lake and weaving paths adorned with an amazing variety of rhododendrons, rose bushes and colourful shrubs. Grand oak trees over 200 years old are spotted around theestate, while Irish yews line the formal Broad Walk interspersed with violas, roses and a collection of plants creating a dramatic blaze of colour.

An unmissable highlight of a visit to Altamont Gardens is Altamont Plant Sales,with an extensive range of herbaceous perennials and one of the finest collections of shrub roses, available year round. e delightful on site café provides comfort and refreshments in beautiful surroundings, so make sure to include some time for arelaxing stop there.

OPENING: January 1st – December 31st. June – Sept. 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. seven days per week. Please check website for opening times and further details.

Hardymount Gardens, Tullow, Co. Carlow R93 XN24t: 059–9151769 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com Another fifteen minutes takes you to Hardymount Gardens, just outside Tullow Town. Owned by Mark and Justina McKeever, this wonderful walled garden over 2.5 acres, contains many unusual plants and flowers in the borders. e grass paths take you past a pond with lilies and fish to espaliered apple trees, Lobelia tupa, a pergola clothed with wisteria and underplanted with hollyhocks and foxgloves and on to a vegetable garden. A summer house in a sheltered corner provides a quiet area for rest and relaxation. Hardymount Gardens is a truly beautiful country garden.

OPENING TIMES: Daily 2 – 6 p.m. May to August inclusive. Please check website and social media pages for further details.

e Meadows, No. 7 e Meadows, Myshall, Co. Carlow R21 CF43t: 059–9157530 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com For a different experience consider a visit to the garden of renowned painter Philippa Bayliss, a ten minute drive from Huntington Castle. Situated on about a third ofan acre this garden is a revelation, with Philippa more than happy to share hergardening experience with visitors. In front of the house there are plantings of pampas grass, miscanthus, orange fennel, fox gloves, heathers and catmint while the back features an informal hedge of shrub roses and some interesting trees interspersed with mostly herbaceous plants, set into gravel. A visit to e Meadows demonstrates what can be achieved in a small space with a small budget and limited time, and will certainly inspire others in similar situations to create something of beauty.

OPENING TIMES: March – September, 12 – 5 p.m. daily with the exception of ursday. Please check website and social media pages for further details.

plan your very own trip – option 1: tullow, clonegal and myshall

Huntington Castle and Gardens, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Y21 K237t: 053–9377160 w: www.huntingtoncastle.com A fifteen-minute drive from Altamont Gardens is Huntington Castle where visitors can step into another world. is 17th century house is a treasure trove of historical architecture and objects, while the gardens have so many interesting aspects. From the French lime trees bordering the avenue to the ornamental lawns and fish pond, each is a destination worth visiting in themselves and the perfect place for a family stroll.

Once you have explored the gardens, head back to the castle where a guided tour of the house provides a window into both its fascinating past, and the lives of the family who call the castle home today Originally built in 1625, many generations of the family added various extensions and details, resulting in the creation of a truly unique and interesting building. Afterwards take a well earned break in the tea rooms with a range of refreshments and light lunch options. To get the full Huntington experience stay the night in one of their beautiful castle rooms. Winner of Georgina Campbell Breakfast of e Year Country House 2020.

OPENING TIMES: May – September 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. House tours 2, 3, 4 and 5 p.m. daily. Please check website and social media pages for further details.

Delta Sensory Gardens & Garden Centre, Strawhall Estate, Carlow R93 Y959t: 059–9143527 w: www.deltasensorygardens.com e stunning Delta Sensory Gardens is our starting point for day two of our Carlow garden tour. Delta is an oasis of peace and tranquility, with sixteen interconnecting gardens set on 2.5 acres. From the Waterfall Garden to the Rose Gardens and Willow Garden there’s something for the whole family to discover at every turn. Consistently voted the number one thing to do in Carlow by Trip Advisor, the gardens have so much to offer during every season of the year. e gardens contain numerous water features including the famous Kugal, one tonne of pink marble floating on a cushion of water.Café yme attached to the gardens offers delicious lunches, tea/coffee and snacks while the garden centre stocks a range of shrubs, perennials and seasonal plants.OPENING TIMES: Daily. Please check website and social media pages for opening hours and further details.

Borris House, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 Y2T1t: 059–9771884 w: www.borrishouse.com Located twenty minutes from Leighlinbridge, Borris House is surrounded by 650 acres of lush woodland and gardens, giving it a secluded, otherworldly feel that transports visitors back in time. Stroll along the woodland paths, enjoy some of the beautifulspecimen trees, view the original Stew Pond and on your way take in the original Victorian laundry, the restored granary and the 18th century Ice House. e lacegarden which is set within the walls of the original laundry green illustrates thefascinating story of Borris Lace through its predominantly white colour palette.OPENING TIMES: Open from mid-May to Mid-September most Wednesday – Fridays and occasional weekends. Please check social media pages for further details.

plan your very own trip – option 2: carlow, leighlinbridge and borris

Duckett’s Grove Historic House and Walled Gardens, Kneestown (near Carlow Town), County Carlow R93 RF80 t: 059–9130411 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com Once a grand mansion, Duckett’s Grove is now one of the most photographed ruins in the country. And it’s not hard to see why; it’s magnificent towers and turrets make for an impressive silhouette. Once the centre of a vast estate, Duckett’s Grove was home to the Duckett family in the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. In 1933, the interior of the mansion was sadly destroyed by a fire. What remains is a stunning Gothic exterior and two beautiful interconnecting walled gardens. In recent years the gardens have undergone an exciting restoration. Restored paths and the repaired sunken bridge plus plantings of oak, lime, hazel, spindle and laurel rekindle the spirit of the Georgian Pleasure Grounds.

OPENING TIMES: Gardens and ruined mansion daily, daylight hours. Enjoy guided tours (on selected days), a film of

Duckett’s Grove and audio tours during your visit.

Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow R93 P9F4t: 059–9721558 w: www.arboretum.ieA twenty minute drive from Kneestown, via Carlow Town and the R448 takes you to Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, Ireland’s largest garden centre locatedon the outskirts of Leighlinbridge Village. is family-run business is a complete shopping experience – in addition to the five-star garden centre visitors will find beautiful interior furnishings, quirky gift ideas, Weber barbecues and accessories, ladies’ fashion and kitchenware. Take some time out to relax and plan the next stage of your trip over some delicious food in the award-winning Rachel’s Garden Café – where all food is made on site, using local where possible. Afterwards visit Arboretum Inspirational Gardens, which feature a stunning display of colourful plants, shrubs, fruit trees and ornamental features. Designed to inspire visitors on planting schemes and solutions, the gardens offer endless ideas that can be easily recreated in gardeners’ own homes. Families will enjoy exploring the African mud hut and spotting the friendly koi who reside in the Arboretum pond. ere is an excellent children’s playground and a maze adjacent to the Inspirational Gardens. A short five minute drive takes you to Leighlinbridge – the Garden Village, wherethe local community has built and designed four beautiful gardens to commemorate various aspects of village life over the years. Both the village, winner of Ireland’s Best Kept Town 2015 and the gardens are well worth a visit. OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., ursday 9 a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Bank Holidays 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

carlow accommodation offers

SEVEN OAKS HOTEL AND LEISURE CLUBAthy Road, Carlow R93 V4K5 t: 059–9131308 w: www.sevenoakshotel.com

Midweek:2BB&1Dinner €119.00 per person sharing3BB&1Dinner €169.00 per person sharing

Weekend:2BB&1Dinner €129.00 per person sharing3BB&1Dinner €179.00.00 per person sharingPackages include dinner on one evening, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wineChildren under 12 share free but pay for meals. A single supplement of €25.00 per night applies for single occupancy rooms.

MOUNT WOLSELEY HOTEL, SPA AND GOLF RESORTTullow, Co. Carlow R93 C9H0 t: 059–9180100 w: www.mountwolseley.ie

GREAT ESCAPE:Unbeatable value one night special offer package!Overnight stay in a deluxe room with full Irish breakfast and four course dinner inFrederick’s Restaurant. is exceptional offer also includes the following hotel credits: €5.00 per adult towards Afternoon Tea €10.00 per adult towards full game of golf 15% discount on selected Elemis products From €168 – book now

FAMILY STAYCATION:2 or 3 night family staycation exceptional offer Full Irish breakfast for all the family Four course dinner for adults on one evening “Woolie Bear” dinner menu for children on one evening Access to Woodland Play Park Free Wi-Fi Resort country walking trail From €342 – book now

GOLDEN HOLIDAYS OFFER: Two night stay in a deluxe double room – midweek. Full Irish breakfast – free newspaperFour course dinner on both evenings in Frederick’s Restaurant

PLUS €5.00 per adult towards Afternoon Tea €10.00 per adult towards full game of golf 15% discount on selected Elemis products 10% discount card for RathwoodGarden and Lifestyle Centre Resort country walking trail Only €294 – book now

SUMMER SALE RESORT HOUSESEnjoy a 20% discount on our luxurious resort houses

As tourism businesses in Carlow re-open their doors, members of the sector are dedicated to ensuring that all safety measuresare in place to ensure the health and safety of all visitors and staff. ey are committed to maintaining the highest safetystandards so you can look forward to an enjoyable and relaxing experience!

Fáilte Ireland, has created a series of guidelines for re-opening tailored to the various sectors of the industry which tourismproviders in Carlow are strictly adhering to. Visitors can be reassured that these recommendations are underpinned by advice made available from the HSA, HSE, HPSC, FSAI, World Health Organisation (WHO) and other relevant bodies.Initiatives being implemented include:

Clear social distancing signage Advanced and consistent cleaning regimes Hand sanitising or hand washing facilities Frequently ventilated premises Reassuring and trained welcoming staff

HUNTINGTON CASTLEClonegal, Co. Carlow Y21 K237t: 053–9377160w: www.huntingtoncastle.com

B&B €95 p.p.s. including complimentary house tour and full Irish breakfast.

Ever wondered what’s its like to stay in a 17th Century Castle?

If you like the thought of getting away from it all for a little while then why not come andstay at Huntington Castle.

carlow accommodation offers

WOODFORD DOLMEN HOTELKilkenny Road, Carlow R97 N207t: 059–9142002 w: www.woodforddolmenhotel.ie

B&B with dinner one night getaway from €129

Overnight stay for two in our comfortable and relaxing bedrooms with full Irish breakfast thefollowing morning and a four course evening meal in our Plum Tree Bistro.

Family 2 night staycation – from €260.

Two nights in a family room for two adults and up to two kids (under 11).

Full Irish breakfast each morning for all the family.

Two course family meal on the evening of your choice.

Complimentary Kids movie night with popcorn and juice both nights.

10% discount for great family attractions including Castlecomer Discovery Park, Reptile Zoo and the Chocolate Garden.

Hotel also has a fun fairy garden, nature trail hunt and lots of garden space for kids to play in and enjoy.

ree nights Ancient East Explore – from €330.

Relax on arrival with Tea/Coffee and fresh baked scones on arrival. ree nights in a comfy double room. Full Irish breakfast each morning. Four course evening meal each night.

AVLON HOUSE B&BGreen Lane, Dublin Road, Carlow R93 NT26t: 059–9174222w: www.carlowbedandbreakfast.com

A boutique traditional Irish bed and breakfast where quality meets the personal touch.

Stay and save:7% off 2 night stays10% off 3+ night staysornon refundable

12.5% off advance Purchase bookings more than 5 days in advance10% off last minute bookings within 3 days of arrival.

Book direct on their own website to avail of additional 10% discount on total cost of stay. Use Promo Code “Direct” during checkout process.

For those not ready for communal dining yet Avlon House now offer room only rates inaddition to B&B rates, if your package does not include breakfast this can be purchasedon arrival, full breakfast menu is available for €8.00 per person.

MOUNT BRANDON HOLIDAY COTTAGESTinnahinch, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny R95 P046t: 059–9724789/085–7317501 w: www.mountbrandoncottages.com

Weekly rate (7 nights) 570.00 July/August 2020 27.06.2020 – 29.08.2020 440.00 Late 2020 29.08.2020 – 19.12.2020Weekend rate (2 nights) 340.00 Late 2020 29.08.2020 – 19.12.2020Midweek rate (3 nights) 350.00 Late 2020 29.08.2020 – 19.12.2020Bank Holidays (3 nights) 395.00 October Bank Holiday 23.10.2020 – 26.10.2020 495.00 Christmas 23.12.2020 – 28.12.2020 495.00 New Year 2020/2021 30.12.2020 – 04.01.2021Nightly rate (off season) 200.00Special Event (4 - 7 nights) 570.00 Christmas Break 21.12.2020 – 28.12.2020 570.00 New Year 2020/2021 28.12.2020 – 04.01.2021