Gardens Along The Gulf Stream by John Anderson

John Anderson trained at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin and The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England.  His first gardening role was the position of Head Gardener at the famous Mount Usher Garden, Co. Wicklow. He made many changes and plant introductions over the period and wrote a plant inventory before he left in early 2002. For the remaining part of 2002 Anderson travelled in the Southern hemisphere especially Australia, Tasmania and South Africa. On his return in early 2003 he took up a new post as Head Gardener at The National Trust for Scotland’s premier garden Inverewe, in the north-west corner of the Highlands. This coastal 40 acre woodland garden boasts some of the finest tender rhododendrons amongst a wealth of tender and exotic perennials in these islands. Three years later he headed south to the world famous Exbury Gardens, home of the Rothschild Family along the south coast of Hampshire. In June 2016 Anderson became the fourth keeper of the gardens at Windsor Great Park with responsibility for the Savill Garden, the 250 acres Valley Garden and the private garden of Windsor Castle Frogmore.

As you gather in Altamont Gardens for this special talk, take the opportunity to discover one of Ireland’s most enchanting horticultural treasures. In Carlow we invite visitors to Wander Off the Track – to slow down, look closer and uncover experiences that reveal the true character of a place. Few locations capture that spirit better than Altamont Gardens.

Nestled in the gentle countryside of Ireland’s Ancient East, Altamont is a place where nature, heritage and beauty come together. Lovingly shaped by the vision of Corona North, and maintained by the OPW since her death in 1999, these magnificent gardens are regarded as one of Ireland’s finest. Every path, border and woodland walk offers something new to discover, inviting visitors to wander at their own pace through a landscape rich in colour, texture and seasonal interest.

Following the talk, visitors can join one of the guided tours of Altamont Gardens, offering a deeper insight into the history, design and remarkable plant collections that make this garden so special. Beyond the formal gardens, Altamont’s beautiful riverside walks lead through ancient oak woodlands to the banks of the River Slaney, where tranquil pathways and birdsong provide the perfect setting to slow down and reconnect with nature. The historic walled garden, ornamental lakes, arboretum and celebrated snowdrop collection ensure that every season brings a different experience.

Just a short distance away, visitors can continue their journey through Carlow’s rich landscape. Explore the nearby village of Ballon, discover local food producers at Malone’s Fruit Farm, and Cafe de Mode, or follow winding country roads that reveal spectacular views of the Blackstairs Mountains.

Speciality teas and coffees, sandwiches and salads are available in Sugar and Spice Café on the grounds of Altamont Plants in Altamont Gardens.

This café provides comfort and refreshment in the beautiful setting of the walled Garden in Altamont, offering delightful home baked cakes and scones with freshly brewed tea and coffee. Light snacks including sandwiches and salads in the summer months. Open end of January to October daily 10.30 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. and weekends, weather permitting in November and December.