Go to My Ireland
logo-mini

Are you sure you want to sure you want to leave the feed?

Leave

Oops... something went wrong!

My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks

Oops, no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to ‘My Board’. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

    See what Ireland has in store for you

    Oops, no internet connection

    While offline, you can still add items to ‘My Board’. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

    My Board

    Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

    Looks like your board is empty

    Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com, simply tap the icon to start adding items to your board!

    Board settings

    Collection cover image

    Visible to people you share your board with

    No image

    Wander through the Mount Usher Gardens

    Take a trip to Ashford in County Wicklow where an excellent example of a Robinsonian garden awaits
    • #Gardens
    • #Museums
    • #IrelandsAncientEast
    County Wicklow
    Amazing landscapes
    50 mins from Dublin Airport

    Lush, tranquil and ever-changing, Mount Usher Gardens has a top rating from The Good Garden Guide, and when you walk the twisting paths between awe-inspiring displays of azaleas, magnolias and even exotic plants, it’s easy to see why.

    In a sheltered valley, Mount Usher Gardens sits on what was originally the site of a cottage and small mill owned by the Ussher family who gave this area its name. When Edward Walpole – a wealthy businessman and lover of walks in what is known as Ireland’s “garden county” – bought the land in 1868, he began turning it into the magnificent 22 acres of gardens you see today. From Montezuma pines to Chilean fire trees, there are over 5,000 species of vibrant plants, many exotic or protected.

    Mount Usher Gardens follows a modern Robinsonian style introduced by William Robinson who studied at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, County Dublin. Robinson was a fantastic gardener and writer, and a strong believer that gardens should be expressive and free from imposed order. You’ll see that free-flowing style as you wander through the forests, stroll alongside the River Vartry, listen to the pleasing crashing of waterfalls and admire the mixed flowerbeds. There’s a little bit of everything here. When you’re ready to head back indoors, don’t miss a trip to the Avoca Garden Café. It’s a great spot to enjoy a seasonal snack and coffee.

    Mount Usher Gardens Visitor Centre, County Wicklow

    Need to know

    1

    Follow the Mount Usher Gardens Tree Trail to ensure you don’t miss any showstoppers, such as one of the oldest introduced trees in Mount Usher and an oak whose leaves repel rainwater.

    2

    British horticulturist and presenter of Gardeners’ World Monty Don claimed Mount Usher Gardens as one of his favourites!

    3

    It’s free to wander Mount Usher Gardens on a self-guided tour, and guided group tours of the gardens should be booked in advance.

    Things to see and do nearby

    Johnnie Fox's Pub and Restaurant

    Established in 1798, Johnnie Fox's Pub & Restaurant is one of the oldest pubs in Ireland. Renowned for being the highest pub in the country, it is nestled in the peaceful township of Glencullen and surrounded by the beautiful serenity of the Dublin Mountains.

    Dublin

    View details

    Attraction

    The Bridge Tavern

    Wicklow

    View details

    Attraction

    Russborough House and Parklands

    Russborough is one of Ireland’s most beautiful historic houses, located in Ireland’s Ancient East, and just 30 minutes from Dublin. A must see destination, it boasts spectacular views, a rich heritage and has 200 acres of scenic parkland to explore.

    Wicklow

    View details

    Attraction

    Greenan Maze

    Greenan Maze is a hidden gem worth finding in the tranquil hills of County Wicklow. Spend the day wandering through two mazes, farm museums, nature trails, seeing farm animals and doing treasure hunts. A visit to Greenan Maze is a fun day out for all the family.

    Wicklow

    View details

    Attraction

    Wicklow's Historic Gaol

    Get a glimpse into life in prisons of the past at Wicklow Gaol, an atmospheric jail museum experience. As one of Wicklow’s top visitor destinations, Wicklow Gaol tells the story of its prisoners through an interactive tour.

    Wicklow

    View details

    Attraction

    Black Castle Wicklow

    Wicklow

    View details

    Attraction

    Wicklow Head Lighthouse - Irish Landmark Trust

    Wicklow Head Lighthouse has safeguarded the scenic Wicklow coastline since 1781. It is a peace seeker's self catering haven with inspiring and refreshing views of the Irish Sea.

    Wicklow

    View details

    Accommodation