Gardens of the Emerald Isle
What's Included
- Return flights from London to Dublin
- Five night's accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the four star The Killashee Hotel, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
- 5 dinners
- 2 lunches
- Full coach touring itinerary
- Expert Tony Russell throughout
- Tour manager throughout
Itinerary
Day 1 to Day 6
Day 1: Fly from London Heathrow to Dublin. Transfer to the hotel for a welcome drink. Tony will give an introductory talk this evening before dinner.
Day 2: This morning, visit Glasnevin, one of Ireland’s two National Botanic Gardens. Explore its historic glasshouses and diverse plant collections. The afternoon is free to enjoy Dublin at your own pace.
Day 3: Begin with a guided tour of the Japanese Garden at the Irish National Stud, followed by a visit to Birr Castle. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle and explore the gardens with Tony, including the Great Telescope and rare plant collections.
Day 4: Visit Hunting Brook Gardens, hidden in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, and home of plantsman Jimi Blake, known for its bold, contemporary planting. Continue to his sister June Blake’s Garden, a vibrant and colourful space filled with rare plants. In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Powerscourt Gardens, with its charming walled garden, striking terraces, and mountain views.
Day 5: Tour the lovely informal garden at Mount Usher, a naturalistic paradise inspired by William Robinson, dating back to 1850. In the afternoon, visit Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens, known for its rhododendron and conifer collection. A scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains rounds off the day.
Day 6: Enjoy a guided tour of Malahide Castle Gardens with an expert gardener. Discover the Victorian conservatory, walled garden, and exotic plantings. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your return flight to London.
NB: Exact order of itinerary may vary according to local conditions, weather and tour manager's discretion.
Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 30 passengers.
The Killashee Hotel
Set amidst 55 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodlands, just outside Naas in County Kildare, Killashee Hotel is a gracious four-star retreat exuding Victorian charm. With 141 elegantly appointed rooms and suites—including the characterful Manor House rooms with period details and antique bathtubs—the hotel offers a tranquil and refined atmosphere. Guests can unwind in the award-winning spa, take a dip in the indoor pool, or enjoy leisurely dining at the Pippin Tree or Oak & Anvil restaurants. The peaceful surroundings, inviting lounges, and garden walks make Killashee a perfect base for a restorative country escape with easy access to Dublin.