- Mount Stewart: Voted one of the top ten gardens in the world, this magnificent National Trust estate on the shores of Strangford Lough showcases the visionary creation of Edith, Lady Londonderry. The formal gardens feature a rich tapestry of themed compartments — including the vibrant Italian Garden with sizzling reds and yellows, the cool Spanish Garden with its circular pool and loggia, the whimsical Shamrock Garden adorned with topiary from Irish mythology, and a restored Rose Garden. Exotic and tender plants thrive in the mild microclimate, complemented by woodland walks, a lake, and miles of trails, offering year-round inspiration and sensory delight.
- Rowallane Garden: This enchanting National Trust garden near Saintfield is often described as one of the most beautiful in Ireland. Carved from the County Down landscape since the 19th century by Reverend John Moore and his nephew Hugh Armytage Moore, it blends formal and informal spaces with a dazzling collection of rare trees, shrubs, rhododendrons, azaleas, and the National Collection of penstemons. Highlights include a striking natural rock garden, wildflower meadows, a walled garden with herbaceous borders and bulbs, and sweeping vistas across the countryside — a hidden gem perfect for immersive nature walks and seasonal colour.
- Castle Ward Gardens: Surrounding the eccentric 18th-century Castle Ward mansion (with its unique blend of classical and Gothic architecture), these extensive grounds offer Victorian and earlier pleasure landscapes. The restored four-tier sunken garden bursts with vivid seasonal flowers, subtropical plants, and geometric beds, while the historic Pinetum, rockery, fernery, and ornamental Temple Water canal provide serene, naturalistic planting. Sheltered woodlands and trails add to the charm, making it an ideal spot for appreciating classic estate horticulture with views over Strangford Lough.
- Seaforde Gardens, Maze and Tropical Butterfly House: This historic demesne near Seaforde features a renowned plant-rich garden with a large collection of trees, shrubs, and exotic species. The walled garden displays vibrant borders and rare plants, while the adjoining maze and tropical butterfly house offer an interactive, family-friendly element amid lush surroundings. Set within a 400-year-old family estate, it provides a delightful mix of traditional horticulture and nature-focused attractions in a peaceful rural setting.
- Bangor Castle Walled Garden: Located in Bangor town, this restored Victorian walled garden offers a charming urban escape with formal beds, colourful herbaceous borders, a rose garden, and productive fruit and vegetable areas. The well-maintained displays evoke classic estate style, with seasonal interest from bulbs to perennials, complemented by paths for leisurely strolls. It’s a compact yet inspiring example of traditional gardening, perfect for visitors seeking accessible beauty near the coast.
Gardens to Visit
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