Uniquely NI Gardens

"The qualities that make Northern Ireland's gardens so special are the splendor and diversity of the plants, the enthusiasm and dedication of the local plantsmen, and the knowledge that no matter where you are in the region, there is always a garden close by.  Indeed when visiting Northern Ireland’s gardens you will find ‘once is not enough!’"

Local horticultural author Trevor Edwards has it spot on. Northern Ireland's gardens are splendid, delighting not just specialists, but everyone, over and over!

Northern Ireland has one of the best gardening climates in the world, enjoying mild winters, high humidity and long hours of sunshine particularly in the east of the country.  Our mild oceanic climate is attributed to the Gulf Stream Drift. Enriched and cultivated by generations of gardeners, the soils are mostly free draining and lime-free, ideal for growing rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and pieris which are the pride of many gardens.  The conditions suit plants from many parts of the world so well that they soon settle down and thrive – sometimes even better than in their native habitat!

Such is the variety that flourishes here, plantsmen past and present have created public and private gardens in many styles. From medieval formal to colourful contemporary creations incorporating sculpture and water features. But it's not all floral beds and herbaceous borders; our gardens also encompass arboretums, woodlands, estates, demesnes and parks. Some form the grounds of stately homes, so if showers threaten, pop in for a tour.  Acclaimed examples, such as National Trust properties Mount Stewart, Rowallane and Florence Court harmoniously combine many styles. In a single garden discover a rocky outcrop brilliant with Alpines; an arboretum of giant redwoods; a walled garden ablaze with hot Mediterranean colours, banks of rhododendrons, and of course, traditional beds filled with Northern Ireland's renowned McGredy, Dickson and Steele roses.