The Carlow Garden Festival showcases Carlow’s outstanding collection of gardens, from historic estates to modern landscaped marvels, garden centres and forest parks all brimming with seasonal beauty. With workshops, guided tours and demonstrations, the festival offers practical tips and inspiration for gardeners of all levels.
The festival also features engaging talks by celebrity gardeners, focusing on topics such as sustainable gardening, plant care and landscape design. Many events are designed to inspire creativity and foster a deeper connection with nature.
Whether you’re an amateur or enthusiastic gardener, a nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing day out, the Carlow Garden Festival provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of some of Ireland’s finest gardening spaces.
Saturday 26th July:
Foraging Workshop along the River Barrow in Leighlinbridge
Experience the magic of the River Barrow with a foraging walk led by Mary White of Blackstairs Eco Trails, one of Ireland’s leading foraging experts. This gentle 90-minute stroll along the picturesque banks of the River Barrow in Leighlinbridge offers the perfect introduction to the world of wild food.
Mary will guide participants in identifying a wide variety of edible plants, flowers, and herbs that grow in abundance along the river’s edge. Learn how to safely gather wild foods, discover their culinary and medicinal uses, and hear fascinating stories about their history and place in Irish tradition. Mary’s passion and knowledge of the natural world promises to make this a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
The walk will pass through the award-winning sustainability gardens, developed by Leighlinbridge Improvement Group, showcasing sustainability and biodiversity. These beautiful spaces demonstrate how communities can work in harmony with nature, offering inspiration for anyone interested in sustainable living and gardening.
The banks of the River Barrow are not only rich in plant life but are also a haven for birds and wildlife. Mary will highlight kingfishers, herons and warblers as you explore this beautiful riverside landscape.
After the walk, there will be an opportunity to sit and go through the collection of plants and herbs, deepening understanding of their many uses and benefits.
This workshop is suitable for adults and older children. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. Please note that places are limited and early booking is advised.
Venue: Entrance to The Garden of Remembrance, Quayside, Leighlinbridge
Time: 2 p.m.
Admission: FREE
Saturday 26th July:
From The Rugby Grounds of the Aviva to Garden Beds: Peter O’Mahony and Adam Frost in Conversation
One of the must-see events of the 2025 Carlow Garden Festival, this lively conversation brings together BBC Gardeners’ World favourite Adam Frost and Ireland rugby star Peter O’Mahony, revealing another passion of this great Munster and Ireland legend —gardening.
For Peter, his garden love of gardening is a retreat from the intensity of professional rugby, a place to switch off, relax and reconnect with nature. But does his love of gardening raise eyebrows in the Ireland dressing room? And can he inspire others, including his teammates, to get stuck into this rewarding hobby? Adam also gives his perspective on why gardening is as good for the soul as it is for the garden.
The evening then takes a fun twist when Adam offers his expert insights into Peter’s garden, proposing bold changes to his box hedges and beautiful lawns—some of which might be a step too far for the rugby legend! With Peter’s admiration for Adam’s work well known, expect lively debate, good-humoured resistance and plenty of gardening wisdom along the way, as Adam shares expert tips and insights that every gardener, from beginner to seasoned pro, can take home.
The event will conclude with a book signing, with Adam’s books available for purchase on the night.
Venue: Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow R93 P9F4
Time: 7.30 p.m.
Admission: €25. 5 – 7 p.m. Enjoy two course buffet meal with tea/coffee in Rachel’s Garden Choice of three main courses and choice from the dessert counter – €24.95.
About Peter O’Mahony
Peter O’Mahony is one of Ireland’s greatest rugby players. Born in 1989 in Cork, he has been a key figure in Irish rugby for over fifteen years. A powerful flanker, he is known for his leadership, toughness and skill. He has captained Munster, Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, earning a reputation as a fearless competitor. O’Mahony made his Munster debut in 2010 and quickly became a crucial part of the team. He earned his first Ireland cap in 2012 and has since played in multiple Six Nations tournaments and Rugby World Cups. His leadership helped Ireland win Grand Slams and a number of historic victories over top teams. Off the pitch, O’Mahony has a deep love for gardening. He often speaks about how he enjoys spending time in his garden, working with plants and flowers.
About Adam Frost
Adam is an award-winning British Garden Designer and presenter on Gardeners’ World (BBC2). He regularly presents the BBC’s coverage of multiple RHS Flower Shows and has featured on The One Show and DIY SOS (BBC 1) and The Alan Titchmarsh Show (ITV).
In 2016 he won ‘Best New Talent’ at the RTS West Awards. Since 2007, Adam has amassed 7 gold medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. He regularly lectures on a wide range of horticultural topics, both nationally and internationally and is a regular contributor to Gardeners’ World and other horticultural magazines.
Adam’s first book Real Gardens was published in 2015, followed three years later by How to Create your Garden. In March 2022 he published The Creative Gardener, an incredibly personal book of garden projects created during lockdown. Autumn 2022 saw his first Gardener’s World tie in book published – How I Garden.
Adam is trained in horticulture and landscape design and began his professional career in the mid-1980’s with an apprenticeship at the North Devon Parks Department. Adam later moved to Rutland where he began working with Geoff Hamilton at Barnsdale Gardens where he helped design and create many of the 38 small gardens which are still on show to the public today.
In 2014 Adam set up The Homebase Garden Academy with the specific aim of helping Britain’s next generation of horticulture students kick-start their careers, by teaching them about garden design and landscaping. As well as running his own garden design and landscape business he also sits on the board for the Horticulture Trades Association, is an RHS Ambassador and until 2022 he ran The Adam Frost Garden School where he hosted masterclasses on design and other gardening courses.
Sunday 27th July:
Gardening Naturally with June Blake
Renowned plantswoman June Blake brings her unique insights to this year’s Carlow Garden Festival with a special workshop entitled Gardening Naturally, hosted at the community-driven An Gairdín Beo. Known for her innovative and organic approach to gardening at her celebrated garden in County Wicklow, June will share practical and philosophical perspectives on working in harmony with nature.
For many years, her garden has thrived without the use of sprays or chemicals, encouraging biodiversity and balance in a setting where birds, insects and plants co-exist naturally. Rather than striving for perfection, June advocates for tolerance of harmless weeds and careful plant selection to avoid persistent pests such as vine weevil. With a deep respect for the natural rhythms of the garden, her paths are hand-weeded occasionally and wild areas are managed rather than controlled.
During this workshop, June will also address effective, chemical-free methods of managing invasive weeds such as bindweed and ground elder—issues familiar to many gardeners.
This event reflects the ethos of An Gairdin Beo, a living community garden that celebrates sustainability, biodiversity and wellbeing. Expect to leave inspired to adopt a more mindful, natural approach to gardening your own space!
Venue: An Gairdín Beo, Dublin Road, Carlow R93 E1HF
Time: 11 a.m.
Admission: €15
About June Blake
June Blake was born in Tinode House, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Her first career was in jewellery making, to then become a sheep farmer near the family home on the Wicklow/Kildare border. Over the past twenty years, June has dedicated her time to gardening and developed her now renowned garden “June Blake’s Garden” and restored the Victorian outbuildings on the farm into award-winning accommodation and event space. Her garden is open to the public from Easter with an exciting display of tulips and Spring flowering plants, ending with a spectacular show of wild dahlias grown from seed. Open Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. with refreshments available.
Monday 28th July:
‘The Tree Hunters – How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed our Landscape’.
Join celebrated historian, tree enthusiast, and author Thomas Pakenham for a special journey into the world of trees, inspired by his latest book The Tree Hunters: How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed Our Landscape. In this richly illustrated and personal account, Pakenham uncovers the fascinating history of the 19th-century tree hunters—explorers, botanists, and plant collectors—whose passion for exotic species fuelled a wave of arboretum-building across Britain and Ireland.
Set against the magnificent backdrop of Huntington Castle, an estate renowned for its collection of champion and heritage trees, this talk will explore the remarkable individuals whose passion for trees reshaped our landscapes and our imaginations.
Thomas Pakenham brings a unique blend of scholarship, wit, and personal experience as a tree hunter himself. This promises to be an unforgettable event for gardeners, tree lovers, and anyone curious about how botanical collections like those at Huntington have come to shape the story of Ireland’s landscape.
Signed copies of The Tree Hunters – How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed our Landscape will be available on the day.
Venue: Huntington Castle and Gardens, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Y21 K237
Time: 11 a.m.
Admission: €15 which includes admission to Huntington Castle Gardens
About Thomas Pakenham
Thomas Pakenham, is an Anglo-Irish historian and arborist who has written several prize-winning books on the diverse subjects of African history, Victorian and post-Victorian British history, and trees. Thomas has written a number of books including Meetings with Remarkable Trees (1996), Remarkable Trees of the World (2002) the Company of Trees: A Year in a Lifetime’s Quest (2015) and The Tree Hunters. How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed our Landscape(2024).
Monday 28th July:
Join Fionnuala Fallon, horticulturist, author and Irish Times gardening columnist, for an inspiring talk on how to grow your own cut flowers seasonally and sustainably. Taking place in the beautiful surroundings of Delta Sensory Gardens, this event is a must for anyone who dreams of filling their home with fresh, homegrown blooms.
Drawing on her extensive horticultural expertise and her experience running ‘The Irish Flower Farmer’ — a sustainably managed flower farm set within a Victorian walled garden in west Wicklow — Fionnuala offers practical advice on how to plan, plant and care for your own cutting garden. She shares her knowledge on the best flowers to grow throughout the seasons, how to extend the flowering period naturally, and how to garden in a way that supports biodiversity and reduces environmental impact.
Whether you have a large garden or a small space to work with, Fionnuala’s tips and techniques will help you enjoy the rewards of growing beautiful flowers sustainably, from seed to vase. The talk will cover everything from soil preparation and seed sowing to harvesting and arranging your own seasonal bouquets.
With her warm, engaging style and passion for naturalistic, environmentally-friendly gardening, Fionnuala’s talk promises to be both informative and inspiring, offering a fresh and practical approach to growing flowers at home.
This talk takes place indoors in a comfortable, accessible setting, making it an ideal event to enjoy regardless of the weather.
Admission: €15 which includes admission to Delta Sensory Gardens
Biography – Fionnuala Fallon
Fionnuala Fallon is a National Botanic Gardens-trained horticulturist, author and Irish Times gardening columnist as well as a regular contributor to various gardening magazines including The Irish Garden. Together with her photographer husband Richard Johnston, she also runs a small, sustainably-managed cut-flower farm, ‘The Irish Flower Farmer’ in a Victorian walled garden in west Wicklow, which they established in 2015.
Tuesday 29th July:
The History of the Phoenix Park 1880–1980: A Talk by Dr John McCullen at Altamont Gardens
Join esteemed historian and former Chief Park Superintendent John McCullen for an insightful exploration of the Phoenix Park’s evolution from 1880 to 1980. Building upon his acclaimed 2009 publication, An Illustrated History of the Phoenix Park: Landscape and Management to 1880, this talk delves into a century marked by significant transformations within one of Europe’s largest urban parks.
McCullen’s extensive research, culminating in his latest volume, offers a comprehensive examination of the park’s multifaceted history. From the introduction of ornamental plantations and landscape schemes, such as those at the Gough Monument and Citadel Pond, to infrastructural developments like the iconic bandstand and tea kiosk, the park’s physical landscape underwent notable changes during this period. Additionally, the talk will highlight the park’s role in hosting major events, including the 1903 International Speed Trials, the 1932 Eucharistic Congress, and the 1979 Papal Visit, each reflecting cultural and social changes in Ireland.
Set within the picturesque Altamont Gardens, an OPW heritage site, this event promises attendees a unique opportunity to connect with Ireland’s rich horticultural and cultural heritage. McCullen’s authoritative perspective ensures a compelling talk for both history enthusiasts and garden enthuasists alike. This talk will take place indoors, with the opportunity to explore the beautiful grounds of Altamont Gardens at your leisure or as part of a guided tour afterwards.
Signed copies of The History of the Phoenix Park 1880–1980 will be available for purchase on the day at a cost to be decided as of now.
John A. McCullen graduated from University College Dublin (UCD) with a first class hons. degree in horticulture in 1970 followed by an M.Sc. in Landscape Ecology, Design and Maintenance from Wye College, London University. In 2007 he was awarded a PhD by the University of Dublin (History of Art Dept., Trinity College) for his thesis on the Landscape History and Management of the Phoenix Park from 1800-1880.
He retired as chief park superintendent (Office of Public Works, OPW) in 2012 and had been responsible for the management and conservation of the Phoenix Park for almost 25 years. John had also been involved in the conservation and restoration of many of the OPW’s Historic Parks and Gardens during this period. He is the author of An illustrated history of the Phoenix Park (Landscape and Management to 1880) published in 2009 and co-authored A Manual of Urban Trees (An Foras Forbartha 1983). He also contributed to Wild Plants of the Phoenix Park by P.A. Reilly, P.A., with contributions from Kelly, Synnott and McCullen, 1993. His second book on the History of the Phoenix Park (1880-1980) was published in December 2024. Well-known for his deep knowledge and gentle storytelling style, John’s engaging and informative presentations have made him a much-admired speaker among garden and heritage enthusiasts.
Tuesday 29th July:
Roots and Rhythms: The Heritage and Revival of Danesmoate Gardens
Danesmoate Gardens, nestled in Dublin’s Little Dargle River Valley, boast a rich history spanning over two centuries. Established between 1766 and 1802 by Captain William Southwell and his wife, Julia Ponsonby, the estate was originally known as Glen Southwell. The Southwell’s crafted a garden in the Picturesque style, featuring rustic stonework, follies and bridges that harmonised with the natural landscape.
In 1986, U2 recorded their iconic album The Joshua Tree at Danesmoate House, utilising the acoustically rich drawing room. Two years later, bassist Adam Clayton purchased the estate, embarking on a transformative journey to restore and enhance the gardens. Under his stewardship, approximately 4,000 trees were planted, and the landscape was revitalised to its former splendour.
Today, Danesmoate Gardens are celebrated for their diverse plantings, including an impressive collection of magnolias and rhododendrons. The estate’s commitment to horticultural excellence is evident in its ongoing development, such as the recent addition of a redeveloped walled garden and a newly installed glasshouse, reflecting the dedication of those who have nurtured this historic garden.
This talk will delve into the evolution of Danesmoate Gardens, highlighting the visionaries—from the Southwells to Adam Clayton and the team—whose efforts have shaped its legacy. This talk explores the architectural and horticultural developments that have transformed the estate into the sanctuary of natural beauty it is today.
This event takes place indoors and includes an opportunity to explore the gardens at your leisure after the talk. Guests will also be treated to a most wonderful afternoon tea, lovingly prepared by Ballymaloe-trained cook Justina McKeever. This is no ordinary tea—expect a seasonal spread featuring the very best of Irish ingredients, from homemade cakes and scones to delicate sandwiches and lemon drizzle cake, all served with flair and generosity in this charming garden setting.
About Daragh Stone
With over fifteen years of horticultural experience, Darragh began his journey at the National Botanical Gardens, advancing his skills at Blarney Castle and various private estates. For the past five years, Darragh has been Head Gardener at Danesmoate Gardens in Dublin, a historic estate owned by U2 bassist Adam Clayton. There, he and the team combine traditional techniques with innovative practices to enhance the estate’s enchanting landscape.
Admission: €19.50 which includes entry to Hardymount Gardens and a beautiful afternoon tea
served on the lawns of Hardymount Gardens.
Thursday 31st July:
My Journey to 19 RHS Chelsea Medals with Sarah Eberle
With an extraordinary record of 19 RHS Chelsea Flower Show gold medals to her name, Sarah shares the story of her remarkable journey through the world’s most prestigious gardening event.
Sarah’s career spans over 40 years, during which she has become renowned for her innovative, sustainable and beautifully crafted designs. In this engaging talk, she reveals the challenges, triumphs and lessons learned over decades of competing at Chelsea, offering a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the intense creative process required to produce award-winning show gardens.
Sarah reflects on how design trends and horticultural practices have evolved over her career, and how her own work has responded to these changes. Full of personal stories, practical advice and design inspiration, this talk will appeal to beginner and enthusiastic gardeners. Sarah’s practical experience, engaging style, and deep knowledge of garden design will make this a highly informative and enjoyable session.
This talk takes place indoors making it an ideal event to enjoy and includes admission to the Lace Garden at Borris House.
Venue: Borris House, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 Y2T1
Time: 11 a.m.
Admission: €19.50 which includes entry to The Lace Garden. Guided tours of Borris House
available €10 per person at 10 a.m., 12.30 p.m. and 1.30 p.m.
About Sarah Eberle
Having won more Chelsea gold medals than any other garden designer, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Society of Garden Designers, and recognition as an RHS Iconic Horticultural Hero, Sarah has an exceptional track record. Projects include public and private spaces worldwide. Listed as one of the Top 50 Garden Designers in UK House and Garden.
Friday 1st August:
Design Your Garden in Ten Easy Steps
Join celebrated UK gardener and TV personality Nick Bailey for an inspiring and practical talk on how to design or reimagine your garden with ease. In Design Your Garden in 10 Easy Steps, Nick breaks down the garden design process into simple, achievable stages, perfect for both beginners and seasoned gardeners.
Packed with expert guidance, this talk covers everything from selecting the right plants for the right space to creating year-round interest and colour in the garden. Whether you’re looking to revamp a tired garden, start from scratch or inject new life into your outdoor space, Nick’s clear, step-by-step approach will give you the confidence and know-how to bring your vision to life.
As well as sharing invaluable design tips, Nick will delight the audience with entertaining anecdotes from his career in TV gardening, offering behind-the-scenes insights into the world of horticultural broadcasting! With his trademark enthusiasm and wealth of experience, this is a must-see event for anyone looking to transform their garden with practical, professional advice.
Nick Bailey is a freelance horticulturalist, best-selling author, award-winning TV presenter, garden designer and speaker.
After studying horticulture at Hadlow College and achieving a 1st class honours degree in Landscape Design from Greenwich University, Nick has worked across many sectors of horticulture over the last 30 years, including nursery stock production, garden management, garden design, teaching, public speaking writing and broadcasting.
Nick is currently a regular presenter on BBC Two’s Gardeners’ World to over 2.5million viewers. His film on plants associated with Shakespeare for Gardeners’ World won best TV programme at the Garden Media Guild Awards 2016.
He began his broadcasting career presenting Gardens Wild and Wonderful in South Africa (’95-’96) and spent four years as a panellist on BBC Radio Norfolk’s Garden Party. Nick has since appeared on BBC 2’s Great British Garden Revival and Big Dreams Small Spaces, as well as ITV News and BBC 1’s The One Show, BBC Radio 4’s Food Programme, and BBC Radio 2.
Nick’s horticultural media career spans some 15 years, during which time he worked as an editor for Garden Answers and Garden News, moving on to write freelance for BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, RHS The Garden, The Mail, The Times and The Telegraph. He currently has regular columns in BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine and Garden News.
Nick’s first book ‘Chelsea Physic Garden – A Companion Guide’ was published in 2014. His second book ‘365 Days of Colour in your Garden’ was published by Kyle Books in 2015 and has been a best seller ever since. His third book ‘Revive Your Garden’ was published in April 2018.
As a dynamic and entertaining public speaker, Nick has taught and lectured for Greenwich University, Chichester College, The English Garden School, The Mediterranean Garden Society, The Hardy Plant Society, and numerous garden groups and associations in the UK and overseas. He is a regular speaker at Gardeners’ World Live.
His work has taken him all over the world including designing and managing gardens in the UK, Spain, South Africa and Australia. Nick created his first Main Avenue Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower show in 2016 for which he received extensive plaudits from the press and judges along with a Silver Gilt Medal.
Nick was also Head Gardener for London’s famous Chelsea Physic Garden, where he spent seven years redesigning the gardens and diversifying the plant collection.
Please put up an option to purchase Nick Bailey’s book: cost €35
Pre-order Nick Bailey’s 365 Days of Colour in Your Garden now through the Carlow Garden Festival website and collect your signed copy on the day of his talk. A perfect keepsake or gift for garden enthusiasts!
In ‘365 Days of Colour in your Garden’ BBC Gardeners ‘ World presenter Nick Bailey shows you how to plant and manage your garden, whatever its size, to ensure year-round colour and interest. Initially explaining simple colour theory principles and how to apply them to your garden, the book goes on to highlight beautiful plants and planting combinations for every season no matter what type of garden you have. With chapters covering the longest flowering plants, pot recipes and gorgeous plants for difficult sites, along with a comprehensive seasonal directory, this book will inspire and delight both experienced gardeners and beginners alike.
Nick Bailey is an award-winning garden designer, plantsman and presenter on BBC Gardeners’ Eorkd who has designed and managed gardens on four continents across his 35-year career. He has also appeared on BBC Great British Garden Revival, Big Dreams Small Spaces and The One Show. As former Head Gardener of London’s Chelsea Physic Garden, Nick spent seven years redesigning the gardens and diversifying the plant collection. His other books include Chelsea Physic Garden – A Companion Guide and Revive Your Garden.”
Saturday 2nd August:
Designing and Planting a Fragrant Garden
Join renowned horticulturist Mary Keenan for an inspiring workshop focused on the art of creating fragrant gardens that awaken the senses and elevate the experience of outdoor spaces. With over 40 years of hands-on gardening experience and a lifelong passion for plants, Mary will share her expert knowledge on how to select and combine beautifully scented plants for maximum seasonal impact.
Drawing on her experience as co-owner of the acclaimed Gash Gardens in County Laois, as well as her roles in public park design, Mary brings a wealth of practical advice and planting inspiration. Whether your garden is large or small, sun-drenched or shaded, this session will help you discover the right choices to fill your space with scent throughout the year – from old-fashioned roses and sweet peas to herbs, bulbs, and aromatic shrubs.
As editor of The Irish Garden magazine and a respected voice in Irish horticulture, Mary’s engaging and down-to-earth approach makes this a must-attend event for gardening enthusiasts of all levels. The talk will take place indoors and will be followed by a guided visit to Delta Sensory Gardens, where participants can experience the beauty and impact of a fragrant garden in full bloom.
Mary Keenan, with her husband Ross Doyle, is co-owner and gardener of well-known Gash Gardens and Nursery in County Laois. She has been gardening and growing plants for over 40 years. After studying horticulture at University College Dublin, she worked as a college lecturer at the National Botanic Gardens for several years before taking on a senior role as a Parks Superintendent with a Dublin local authority. She is a Past President and former Executive Director of the Tree Council of Ireland. As editor of The Irish Garden magazine and a regular columnist with the Irish Farmers’ Journal, she is a passionate plantsperson and takes a very practical and down to earth approach to gardening. www.gashgardens.ie
Saturday 2nd August:
Artful Gardening: Styles, Tricks and Short Cuts
Join renowned classicist, author, and celebrated garden writer Robin Lane Fox for a rare and engaging talk in the magnificent setting of Huntington Castle. Titled Artful Gardening: Styles, Tricks and Short Cuts, this talk is a lively exploration of how to make gardens not only beautiful but brilliantly effective—with a touch of flair, a nod to tradition, and plenty of practical wisdom.
Drawing on decades of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of garden history, Robin will share insights into the evolving styles of gardening and the tried-and-tested short cuts that can transform your space with less effort than you might expect. Robin’s witty, insightful commentary will leave you both inspired and informed.
Best known for his long-running gardening column in the Financial Times and his books including Better Gardening and Thoughtful Gardening, Robin brings a unique blend of erudition, humour and real-world advice.
This talk will take place indoors, with time to enjoy the spectacular grounds of Huntington Castle before or after the event. Early booking is advised.
Venue: Huntington Castle and Gardens, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Y21 K237
Time: 3 p.m.
Admission: €19.50 which includes admission to Huntington Castle Gardens
About Robin Lane Fox
Robin Lane Fox has written weekly on gardening for the Financial Times since 1970. He is an Emeritus Fellow of New College Oxford where he is Garden Fellow and runs the gardens. He also gardens in the Cotswolds in his own two-acre garden. His new book is Homer and His IIiad, out in July from Allen Lane-Penguin at £25 ,addressing one of the three H’s in his life, Homer, hunting and horticulture.
Sunday 3rd August:
Rosie Maye at Barrow Experience Gardens
Join Irish Garden Magazine columnist Rosie Maye, also known as The Insomniac Gardener, for a special Walk and Talk through the award-winning Barrow Experience Gardens at BEAM Services, Bagenalstown, County Carlow.
This inspiring event offers garden lovers a chance to explore a truly unique series of ten interconnecting gardens, each telling its own story and reflecting the rich history, folklore and heritage of the Barrow Valley. Set on a picturesque and peaceful site that borders the canal off the River Barrow, the gardens form part of BEAM Services, a training centre for people with disabilities, and are a testament to creativity, community, and inclusion.
The ten gardens that form the Barrow Experience are the Mindfulness Garden, French Garden, Convent Garden, Monastic Courtyard, Potager Garden, Druids’ Wood, Dinn Righ, Reflective Garden, Cooperation Garden and the Water Garden.
As Rosie introduces each garden she’ll share practical tips on planting, composting, seasonal colour, garden structure, pollinator-friendly choices and how to bring both beauty and purpose into your own green space—whether large or small. Her down-to-earth advice makes this a great event for gardeners of all levels.
Rosie has been gardening since the age of four alongside her mother who nurtured her lifelong passion for all things garden related. She studied tourism in college and went on to work in Aer Lingus for sixteen years travelling the world. Rosie gardened in every home she lived in, but it was in her present home in County Meath that she realised her dream of having a big garden. She writes about her garden journey on her FB, Instagram and blog called the Insomniac Gardener. Rosie is a columnist for the Irish Garden Magazine and is also a regular contributor to BBC Radio Ulster’s Gardeners corner. Rosie gives lectures to garden clubs and is garden advisor to the Ledwidge Cottage Museum in Slane. Her own garden in Slane is open for groups by appointment.
Sunday 3rd August:
Eanna Ni Lamhna at Rathwood
Venue: Rathwood 3 p.m.
Admission: €10
Join Éanna Ní Lamhna, one of Ireland’s best-loved environmentalists, for an enchanting walk through the stunning woodlands of Rathwood as part of the Carlow Garden Festival. Set across 170 acres, Rathwood’s serene forest offers a treasure trove of flora, fauna, and towering trees. This walk will explore the rich biodiversity of Fox’s Park, where visitors may spot deer, rabbits, foxes, mink, pheasants, and dragonflies amidst ancient beech, oak, birch, and Douglas fir trees. Expect fascinating insights into the forest’s ecology, geology, and the stories behind Rathwood’s diverse wildlife.
The forest serves not only as a beautiful recreational space but also as an important educational resource, showcasing the balance of nature and biodiversity in action. After the walk, visitors can also enjoy the Maze of Ireland or take a ride on the Rathwood woodland train.
Located close to the ancient Rathgall Hillfort dating back to 800 B.C., Rathwood is the perfect setting for an afternoon of discovery, learning and connection with the natural world.
Venue: All Throughout Carlow Garden Trail Members, Carlow, Leinster, 0000
Date: 26 July 2025
Start Date: 26 July 2025
Start Time: 12:00 am
End Date: 03 August 2025
End Time: 11:59 pm
Time: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
Admission:
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