The John F. Kennedy Memorial Park and Arboretum, located near New Ross in County Wexford, is a 623-acre botanical haven dedicated to the memory of U.S. President John F. Kennedy, whose great-grandfather was born in nearby Dunganstown. Managed by the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland and the Office of Public Works, this internationally significant arboretum offers a serene and educational experience with its vast collection of flora, scenic walks, and historical significance.
Dedicated to JFK, the arboretum was opened on May 29, 1968, by President Éamon de Valera, with Eunice Kennedy Shriver planting the first tree. It was established following JFK’s 1963 visit to Ireland, funded by Irish-American societies as a living tribute after his assassination. Its proximity to the Kennedy Homestead (10 minutes away) ties it to the Kennedy family’s Irish roots.
The arboretum boasts over 5,000 varieties of trees and shrubs from all temperate regions, making it Ireland’s largest such collection. Notable features include:
- Ericaceous Garden: Over 500 different rhododendrons, azaleas, and heathers, offering vibrant displays, especially in spring and early summer.
- Forest Plots: 200 plots organised by continent, showcasing trees from North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
- Special Collections: Includes a slow-growing conifer grove, an Augustine Henry plant collection, and significant collections of Acer (maples), Quercus (oaks), Prunus (cherries), Viburnum, Berberis, and Betula (birches).
- Conservation Efforts: The arboretum hosts provenance plots for conifers and elm adaptability trials, with a focus on preserving endangered species, such as over 10 acres of rare conifers planted in 2022.
Scenic Walks and Trails:
- Signposted Woodland Walks: Tarmacked paths weave through the grounds, making them accessible for wheelchairs, prams, and bicycles. Walks range from short strolls to longer routes, passing exotic trees, rest points, and a decorative lake with ducks, geese, and waterfowl.
- Permanent Orienteering Courses: Four courses, designed with the Irish Orienteering Association, cater to families, individuals, and groups, combining exploration with physical activity.
- Celtic Tree Trail: A guided tour highlighting Ireland’s native trees and their significance in Celtic mythology.
- Slieve Coillte Summit: A road leads to the 271-meter summit, offering panoramic views of six counties, the Hook Peninsula, and a memorial to the 1798 Irish Rebellion. The summit is a highlight for its dramatic vistas.
Visitor Centre and Exhibitions:
- The visitor centre features engaging exhibits, including an audiovisual display on JFK’s life and his 1963 visit to Ireland, as well as the arboretum’s history and plant collection. A new interpretation space, introduced in 2018, enhances the educational experience.
- The centre includes an information desk, public restrooms, and a small gift shop with souvenirs.
Family-Friendly Amenities:
- Play Area and Mini Maze: A playground with treehouses and a hedge maze shaped like a small house is ideal for children. The picnic area nearby encourages families to relax and dine outdoors.
- Dog-Friendly: Dogs are welcome on leads, augmenting the family-friendly atmosphere.
- Picnic Areas: Spacious areas with benches and tables are scattered throughout, recommended for a leisurely meal.
- Café: A bright, cheery café serves teas, cakes, and light meals, praised for its friendly staff and quality food. Visitors can relax here before or after exploring. Note that the café may close temporarily due to unforeseen circumstances, so bringing a picnic is a good backup plan.
Guided Tours:
- Free guided tours, available daily from March to October, are a highlight. Knowledgeable guides like Bernie and Jerry offer 60- to 100-minute tours, often via golf buggy for accessibility, covering the arboretum’s history, rare species, and planting details. Walking tours are also available, with guides sharing insights on the flora and JFK’s legacy.
- Tours are particularly recommended for their engaging storytelling and educational value, making the experience memorable for all ages.
- Accessibility and Practicalities: Situated on the Hook Head Peninsula, 12 km from New Ross, a 30-minute drive from Wexford Town or Waterford City.
Open daily year-round with seasonal hours:
- April to August: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- September: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- October to March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Affordable, with entry under €10 per person (exact prices vary; check www.heritageireland.ie.
- Parking: Ample free parking is available.
- Tarmacked paths ensure wheelchair and pram access, though the summit road will be challenging for some. No toilets are available near the play area, requiring a walk back to the visitor centre.
Atmosphere and Visitor Experience:
- Visitors describe the arboretum as a “slice of heaven,” with lush greenery, peaceful lakes, and a relaxing atmosphere. The staff’s warmth and enthusiasm, combined with the variety of walks and rare plants, make it a standout destination.
- The arboretum is ideal for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts, with ample space to avoid crowds, even during school group visits.
Nearby Attractions:
- Kennedy Homestead (10 minutes): A museum on Irish-American history and the Kennedy family.
- Dunbrody Famine Ship (New Ross): A replica of an 1840s emigrant vessel, offering insights into Ireland’s famine history.
- Hook Lighthouse (30 minutes): One of the world’s oldest operational lighthouses, on the scenic Hook Peninsula.
- Tintern Abbey and Colclough Walled Garden:
New Features
- Building on the 2022 planting of over 10 acres of endangered conifers, the arboretum continues its role as a sanctuary for threatened tree species., expect further expansion of conservation plots, with new species or research trials, reinforcing its international significance.
- Enhanced Visitor Interpretation: The new interpretation space in the visitor centre, introduced in 2018, will see updates, such as refreshed exhibits or audiovisual content about JFK’s legacy or the arboretum’s ecological role, aligning with its ongoing management by the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland.
- Seasonal Events and Activities: The arboretum’s tradition of hosting National Heritage Week events (e.g., Celtic Tree Trail, bat walks, craft fairs) continues with new themes or talks. For example, past events included talks on “Clever Trees” and intrepid plant explorers, suggesting similar innovative programmes. Visitors should check www.heritageireland.ie for the latest schedule.
- The annual Kennedy Summer School, coinciding with arboretum events, features new discussions or guest speakers each September.
- Improved Accessibility: The one-way system and social distancing measures introduced during the 2020 reopening have been refined, with staff from nearby attractions like Tintern Abbey assisting., expect continued improvements to paths or signage to enhance accessibility and visitor flow, especially for those with mobility challenges.
- Potential Filming Opportunities As a recognised filming location (noted by Screen Wexford), the arboretum is seeing increased use for media projects, leading to temporary displays or features related to these productions, adding a unique visitor experience.
Visitor Expectations
- Time and Cost: Plan for a 1.5- to 3-hour visit, with entry fees under €10 (confirm on www.heritageireland.ie). The guided tour (free, March to October) is highly recommended for its educational value. Bring a picnic to save on costs, as the café’s offerings are simple but pleasant.
- Best Times to Visit: Spring (April-May) for rhododendrons and azaleas, summer for lush greenery, and autumn for subtle color changes. The summit views are best on clear days. Open daily, with extended hours (until 8:00 PM) from April to August.
- What to Bring: Wear sturdy shoes or boots for walking, especially to the summit. Bring a picnic, water, and weather-appropriate clothing, as the park is exposed to Ireland’s variable weather. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching at the lake or summit views.
- Who It’s For: Ideal for families (playground and maze), nature enthusiasts (diverse flora), what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious” (JFK exhibits), and those seeking a peaceful escape. The guided buggy tours cater to those with mobility issues.
- Tips: Book guided tours in advance for groups, check the website for café status, and combine with a visit to the Kennedy Homestead or Dunbrody Famine Ship for a full day in Ireland’s Ancient East. Dogs must be on leads.
Recommendations
- Plan Your Route: Start at the visitor centre for the exhibit and guided tour schedule. Take the summit road for views, but wear sensible shoes for uneven terrain.
- Explore Nearby: Pair with the Kennedy Homestead or Hook Lighthouse for a rich cultural and scenic experience.
- Follow Updates: Visit www.heritageireland.ie or follow social media.
The JFK Memorial Park and Arboretum offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical resonance, and family-friendly activities, with 2025 promising continued conservation efforts and enriched visitor experiences. For the latest details, contact +353 51 388 171 or check www.heritageireland.ie.
