Welcome to “The Garden Trails of Wexford” podcast series, part of our #findyourtrail campaign. This series is all about giving you a closer look at the amazing gardens that make Wexford a special destination. Each episode dives into the unique features, fascinating stories, and the love and care that go into each garden on our trail. Join us as we explore the beauty of Wexford’s gardens!

Orchard Park Gardens are set in the sunny southeast just three miles from Rosslare Europort and one mile from Tagoat village.

Lovingly tended to for over  55 years by the owners, the garden has been described as one of the most eclectic, fascinating and interesting gardens in the southeast.

Along with mature trees and shrubs, a well-stocked pond with water lilies and fish, which the heron and other wildlife frequent – the woodpecker also visits the bird feeder.

The cherry blossoms along with the woodland area are especially beautiful in spring. Herbaceous borders and rose beds add colour during the year.

The garden has a beautiful view across to Forth Mountain from the model of the Hook Head Lighthouse.

Springmount Garden Centre, the perfect venue for plant lovers, offers a great range of plants, trees, fruit and vegetables. Helpful, knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide advice both in the garden centre and in the garden shop where there is an extensive range of home and giftware.

Many creative events and demos for children and adults take place throughout the year.

Rosslare Harbour Village Park and Gardens (Kirwans Garden) Set in 4.4 acres of beautiful and well maintained community gardens, the Village Park consists of 5 discreet areas interconnected and characterised by attractive formal gardens and some very informal biodiverse areas that are a delight to explore.  The gardens are developed from reclaimed lands by local volunteers of the Rosslare Harbour/Kilrane Environment Group with the assistance of community employment Tús staff.

This Victorian house is steeped in history. The house is a stunning example of renowned architect Daniel Robertson’s style, famed for his work in Powerscourt and Johnstown Castle. Relax in our beautifully restored formal gardens; discover hidden treasures in a verdant landscape of mature plants and trees. An impressive entrance that showcases the house’s Tudor Gothic-style facade will enchant you. 

 Wells House has a stunning Victorian Terrace garden, parterre garden and arboretum designed by the renowned architect Daniel Robertson. The terrace gardens have been restored to their former glory and sit beautifully in the setting of this vast parkland creating a stunning landscape.

Woodland walks, an adventure playground and café provide a perfect day out for all the family.

Johnstown Castle was built by the Esmonde family who came to Wexford in 1169. It was then acquired by the Grogan family who developed the castle, grounds, lakes and estate. The walled gardens and hothouses, covering 4 acres, were originally laid out between 1844 -1851 and retain their early design today. Pathways meander through the grounds, the woodland garden and around the lakes. 

This 2.5 acre country farmhouse garden has borders which blend old favourites and new introductions in an informal atmosphere. Pathways lead through the front garden, rose pergola and laburnaum archway, a richly under-planted orchard, Egyptian garden and finally a woodland garden with many rare trees and shrubs. In spring the lawn becomes a crocus carpet, originally planted over 80 years ago, a tribute to the history of this garden.

This one acre garden, created over ten years ago on the challenging Macemore soil, depicts the four seasons and is centred round a beautifully recreated Japanese pavilion. Stone lanterns, statues and other features accentuate this theme and a Liquidambar flanks one of the perimeters. There is also a craft shop to visit while you are there.

Beechdale Garden Centre and the Wildflower Cafe are passionate about plants and food. Located in an attractive rural setting, Beechdale has a reputation for offering an extensive range of unusual plants, specialising in roses. All the mouth-watering food

John F. Kennedy Arboretum is dedicated to the memory of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, 35th President of the United States of America. It consists of 623 acres including 4,500 types of trees and shrubs, 200 forest plots, rhododendrons and dwarf conifers. Attractions include exhibitions, guided tours, signposted walks, lake, café and a playground with picnic area.