Escorted Tours
Gardens of the Emerald Isle
Across soft green landscapes, gardens unfold like living tapestries, telling stories of the hands that tend them. From wild borders to formal terraces, each one reveals its own character and charm. Step inside Ireland’s finest gardens, from the sweeping grounds of Powerscourt and Birr Castle to gardens nurtured by famed horticulturalists Jimi and June Blake.
Discover botanical treasures at Glasnevin, Kilmacurragh and Malahide, and raise a glass of local whiskey to the gardeners who bring these landscapes to life.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Tony Russell
Tony has worked in horticulture for almost forty years, including fourteen years in charge of Britain’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt and ten years as a plant consultant to the National Trust. His career began with the Forestry Commission and has given him exceptional knowledge of trees, shrubs and designed landscapes.
Tony has also presented television and radio programmes and appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time. His expert commentary combines botanical detail with the stories behind each garden, making him an informed and thoroughly engaging companion.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
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: Glasnevin Botanical Gardens and Dublin
This morning, visit Glasnevin, one of Ireland’s two National Botanic Gardens. Explore its historic glasshouses and diverse plant collections. Walk through themed outdoor collections including the herbaceous borders, rose garden, and alpine house, and take time to appreciate the garden’s role in plant conservation and research.
The afternoon is free to enjoy Dublin at your own pace.
Day 3: Japanese Garden & Birr Castle
This morning, travel to County Kildare to visit the Irish National Stud, home to one of the finest Japanese Gardens in Europe. Enjoy a guided walk through this symbolic garden, designed to represent the “Life of Man,” with its winding paths, bridges, and meticulously placed planting, creating a contemplative atmosphere.
Continue to Birr Castle for a guided tour of the estate, followed by time in the grounds with commentary by Tony. Highlights include the famous Great Telescope —once the largest in the world—and extensive gardens that feature rare trees, historic plantings, and riverside walks.
Day 4: Hunting Brook, June Blake’s Garden & Powerscourt
Travel into the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains for a visit to Hunting Brook Gardens, the creative haven of plantsman Jimi Blake. This contemporary garden is known for its bold, immersive planting style—expect perennials, grasses, and unusual species that create a dynamic and ever-changing landscape.
Continue to his sister June Blake’s Garden, a secluded garden filled with vibrant colour and rare plants. Designed as a work of living art, it offers a more structured yet equally imaginative contrast to Hunting Brook.
In the afternoon, explore the grand setting of Powerscourt Gardens, one of Ireland’s most magnificent estates. Discover its charming walled garden, formal terraces, ornamental lakes, and sweeping mountain views.
Day 5: Mount Usher & Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens
Tour the lovely informal garden at Mount Usher, a naturalistic paradise inspired by William Robinson’s philosophy of working in harmony with nature. Established in 1850, the garden features informal plantings set along the River Vartry, with drifts of flowering shrubs, trees, and bulbs creating a tranquil, romantic atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens, known for its rhododendron, magnolias, and conifer collection. A scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains rounds off the day.
Day 6: Malahide Castle Gardens
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.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“Mount Usher Garden and Birr Castle were definite highlights of the tour, both offering beautiful surroundings and plenty to discover.”
Mrs S, May 2026
“The two Botanic Gardens were real highlights of the trip, along with Mount Usher and the Irish National Stud gardens, all of which were especially enjoyable to visit.”
Anonymous, May 2026
“Birr Castle and the Great Telescope were a real highlight for me, especially as I had visited around 50 years ago on a previous touring holiday. It was fascinating to return after so long and see it again.”
Mrs C, May 2026
“A real highlight of the trip was having Tony as our tour leader, absolutely superb throughout. The gardens were fantastic, the hotel was excellent, and everything came together to make a truly enjoyable holiday.”
Anonymous, May 2026
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
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 country escape with easy access to Dublin.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
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