Altamont Gardens
Altamont Gardens near Tullow, Co. Carlow kown as the most romantic garden in Ireland. It is an enchanting blend of formal and informal gardens located on a 100 acre estate. Whilst still unknown, it is ranks in the top ten of Irish gardens and is often referred to as ‘the jewel in Ireland’s gardening crown".
The estate gains much of its character from the many mature trees, natives in the avenues and woodland areas, and exotic specimens throughout the gardens. Lawns bisected by sculpted yews slope down to a lake surrounded by rare trees and rhododendrons and lead in turn to a very different garden featuring exotic shrubs and trees.
The 2½ acre lake at Altamont Gardens was dug out after the Irish Potato Famine. Research indicates that it took 100 men with horses and carts 2 years to complete this task at a cost in 1847/8 of £12,000, a not inconsiderable sum at that time.
Lawns are bisected by sculpted yews sloping down to a romantic lake surrounded by rare trees, rhododendrons and shrubs. A profusion of roses, old fashioned and modern, and herbaceous plants scent the air.
A fascinating walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen with its canopy of ancient oaks leads to the majestic River Slaney. Along the River Walk, you may see salmon and trout rising, perhaps even an otter, and throughout the garden, an abundance of birds and butterflies.
On your return via the Hill Walk, there are wonderful views of the Blackstairs and Wicklow Mountains and Mount Leinster.
Large, beautiful old world garden, Robinsonian in style with a strong emphasis on the informal tradition of combining a good plant collection within the natural landscape of its environment.
So why not take a journey back in time in this tranquil old world setting and experience one of the most unique and magical gardens in Ireland.
School Tours At Altamont Gardens
The 2½ acre lake and the fascinating walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen at Altamont Gardens are a great experience for children and students of all ages and an ideal location for a school tour or an educational visit and picnic.
Please contact Altamont Gardens Tel +353 59 915 9444. for more details
Please mention Familyfun.ie when Booking
Altamont Gardens Facilities
- Toilets
- Otdoor picnic tables
- Lrge car and coach park
- Rstricted wheelchair access.
Altamont Gardens Opening Times:
- Summer: Open 7 days including bank holidays
- Easter – End of April: 9am – 6.30pm
- May – End August: 9am – 7.30pm
- September: 9am – 6.30pm
- October: 9am – 5.00pm
- November & February: 9am – 4.30pm
- December & January: 9am – 4.00pm
Closed on Christmas Day
(Subject to change. Please telephone in advance of visit)
Altamont Gardens Admission
- Currently Free.
- Guided tours available for groups by prior appointment – adults €2
Directions To Altamont Gardens
Signposted on N80 and N81 – 9 km. from Tullow, 22 km. from Carlow town on the Bunclody road.
