Blooming Gardens and Big Houses

Daffodil Time in Carlow

Visitors are invited to make a break for County Carlow this March, where the garden season continues with the arrival of Daffodil Time along the Carlow Garden Trail.

As the days grow longer and gardens awaken with colour, thousands of golden daffodils are beginning to bloom across some of Carlow’s most beautiful gardens. From sweeping drifts in historic landscapes to specialist collections and plant sales, the county offers lots of opportunities to view this much-loved spring flower.

Among the highlights is Altamont Gardens, one of Ireland’s most treasured garden destinations. Set on a 40-acre estate on the banks of the River Slaney near Tullow, Altamont is renowned for its unique combination of formal and informal gardens, arboretum and riverside walks. In spring, the gardens come alive with vibrant daffodil displays, both in the gardens and along the entrance avenue creating a spectacular welcome for visitors. The gardens are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with guided tours each afternoon at 2 p.m., and admission to the gardens is free. www.heritageireland.ie

On the grounds of Altamont Gardens, Altamont Plant Sales offers visitors the opportunity to explore and purchase a wide selection of daffodil varieties alongside other seasonal plants. The Corona North Commemorative Border makes it a must-visit for gardeners looking for inspiration for their own spring planting. In a workshop scheduled for Saturday, March 14^th “Re-Awakening the Garden: Timely Tasks and Plants that Shine in the Spring Garden”, Mary Keenan will guide you through key tasks to refresh your garden after winter and prepare for the season ahead, while also highlighting some of the best plants to bring colour and interest to your spring garden. Along with the owner of Altamont Plant Sales, Robert Miller, Mary will also be picking their favourite plants for this time of the year with tips on how to best grow them. A fun and practical talk for all gardeners! To book your space visit www.altamontplants.com

At Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow Town, visitors can experience a unique celebration of daffodils from Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th March, when the gardens host their annual Daffodil Time event. Set across 2.5 acres and designed to stimulate all five senses, Delta features themed garden spaces, colourful spring displays and the welcoming Café Thyme, making it a perfect outing for families and garden enthusiasts alike www.deltasensorygardens.ie

Further along the Carlow Garden Trail, Huntington Castle and Gardens offers the magical combination of daffodils and newborn lambs during March and early April. Visitors can enjoy woodland walks, the famous Yew Tree Walk and the historic castle grounds while experiencing the sights and sounds of spring across the estate. The gardens are open each weekend in March and daily from March 27th to April 12^th 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

At Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven in Leighlinbridge, spring brings vibrant displays of daffodils throughout its inspirational gardens. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed day out browsing plants and garden inspiration while exploring Arboretum’s extensive garden centre, boutique and café. With family-friendly facilities and beautiful outdoor spaces, Arboretum is an ideal stop along the Carlow Garden Trail.

Together these destinations showcase why County Carlow is recognised as Ireland’s gardening county, where visitors can truly appreciate the changing seasons from early spring blooms to vibrant summer colour. For more information on events and garden openings visit www.carlowgardentrail.com or contact Carlow Tourism on 059-9130411.