A historic botanical garden located within three kilometres of a major Irish port city has been named the best in Europe, beating gardens in Italy, France and Sweden
The National Botanic Gardens in Dublin has been named the most beautiful garden in Europe.
Just three kilometres from Dublin city centre, the National Botanic Gardens offer a tranquil retreat, according to Accor Live Limitless. Featuring over 15,000 plant species from across the globe, Ireland’s gardens are renowned for their glass greenhouses dating back to the early 19th century.
Whilst the garden tearooms are currently closed for maintenance works, visitors can still enjoy a refreshment from the Courtyard café.
One visitor said: “The Dublin Botanical Garden is an absolute gem! Our visit was fantastic, starting with the convenience of easy parking, which made the experience stress-free from the get-go. The garden itself is sprawling and meticulously maintained, offering a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
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“We were impressed by the variety of plants and beautifully curated sections, each with its own unique charm. The sheer size of the garden means there’s plenty to explore, with numerous paths leading to delightful discoveries around every corner. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.”
Guided tours of the gardens are available daily for €5 (£4.21), and throughout the summer the gardens host many events including ‘Blissful Blooms – A Flower Lover’s Tour’. The Blissful Blooms tour celebrates vibrant flowers, and attendees get to enjoy the garden’s array of blossoms including sweet peas and sunflowers, all whilst learning about the differently plant species (€5/£4.21). For kids, over the summer period the gardens also have many drop-by activities for children and even camps.
There are several walks visitors can take around the gardens including a walk to a statue of Socrates — a famous Greek philosopher. One of the gardens is the Sensory Garden, which was built by the voluntary effort of staff and students at the Botanic Gardens. Visitors are encourage to experience plants with touch, sound, taste and smell, as well as sight.
The gardens were originally founded in 1795 by the Dublin Society and today they are owned through the Office of Public Works. The gardens are open every day throughout the year, except Christmas Day and what’s even better, admission is free of charge.
Close to the gardens is also the Royal Canal Walk, which stretches alongside the canal and reaches River Liffey, which flows into the sea. Located a short walking distance from the gardens is also The Tolka House gastropub. Originating from 1756, Tolka House serves traditional pub dishes and offers an array of entertainment events.
Due to its proximity to Dublin, the National Botanic Gardens offer the perfect day out to escape the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
If also heading into the city, Dublin is home to some great museums and experiences including an immersive Guinness experience at its storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol museum which is the prison where many of Ireland’s political prisoners where incarcerated, tortured or executed and the Irish Museum of Modern Art.
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