Join award-winning garden designer, broadcaster and BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Arit Anderson for an inspiring exploration of how plants can transform the way we design and experience our gardens.
Arit will share her philosophy of placing plants at the heart of every garden design. Rather than treating planting as an afterthought, she demonstrates how the careful selection and combination of plants can create gardens that are beautiful, resilient, sustainable and deeply connected to nature.
Drawing on her experience as a designer and communicator, Arit will discuss how plants provide structure, colour, texture and seasonal interest while also supporting biodiversity and responding to the challenges of climate change. She will explore how thoughtful planting can bring personality and emotion to outdoor spaces, creating gardens that evolve and improve over time.
Packed with expert advice, stunning examples and Arit’s trademark enthusiasm, this is a must-see event for gardeners, designers and plant lovers alike. Discover why, when it comes to great garden design, plants should always be the true stars of the show.
Arit Anderson is a garden designer, writer and presenter on BBC Two’s Gardeners’ World. With 25 years of experience in the dynamic fields of retail fashion and creative events, Arit honed her ability to blend analytical and creative skills. She also worked as a part-time therapist in London and taught holistic therapies, which led her to travel across the USA.
Inspired by the joy of her own garden, Arit studied gardening at Capel Manor College and won the RHS Chelsea Fresh Talent award in 2013. She later received a Gold Medal at RHS Hampton Court in 2016. Her designs emphasise simplicity, environmental sensitivity and careful plant selection. Through her company, Diamond Hill Garden Design, she offers garden services across London and beyond, including Deià, Majorca.
As a presenter and writer, Arit advocates for sustainable gardening solutions in the face of climate change.
Uncover one of Ireland’s most remarkable hidden treasures at Borris House, the ancestral home of the McMorrough Kavanaghs, Kings of Leinster. Nestled within 650 acres of enchanting woodland and gardens, this historic estate invites visitors to wander deeper into the stories, characters and heritage of this property.
One of the few Irish estates that can trace its lineage directly to the royal families of ancient Ireland, Borris House offers a truly authentic connection to the rich tapestry of Ireland’s Ancient East. Its secluded setting, amongst 650 acres of beautiful Carlow countryside, creates a sense of stepping back in time, where every room, pathway and landscape reveals another fascinating chapter.
Join a guided house tour and marvel at lavish ceilings adorned with intricate plasterwork, elegant original furnishings, fine porcelain and treasured artworks. Along the way, discover the hidden stories that bring Borris House to life, from the Chapel of St Moling and Lady Harriet’s pioneering lace industry to the extraordinary life of Arthur MacMurrough Kavanagh, the celebrated landlord, parliamentarian and philanthropist.
House tours available at 10 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. To book the tour: Buy Guided tour of Borris House Tickets online – Carlow Garden Festival
Meet at front entrance of the main house.
Visitors who wish to enjoy lunch as part of their day out are encouraged to book in advance at the Step House Hotel, a former hunting lodge of Borris House. Located just across from the estate, it offers the perfect place to relax and enjoy warm hospitality before or after exploring this remarkable historic setting.
The Store at Borris House will also be open, offering visitors the opportunity to browse a beautiful selection of Irish handmade goods. From crafted gifts to unique keepsakes, it is the ideal place to take home a reminder of a visit to one of Carlow’s most atmospheric heritage experiences.
Date: 29 July 2026
Start Date: 29 July 2026
Start Time: 11:00 am
End Date: 29 July 2026
End Time: 11:00 am
Time: 11:00 am
Admission: €25
Directions: R95 Y2T1. The front gate entrance to Borris House is located in the centre of Borris Town, immediately opposite the Step House Hotel.
Type of event: Indoor event (ballroom). Ticket includes admission to the Lace Garden. House tours of Borris House will be available before the talk at 10 a.m. and after the talk at 12.30 p.m. and 1.30 p.m. Cost €10 each. Meeting point in front of the main house.

Carlow Tourism and Carlow Tourist Office, College Street, Carlow