carlow tourism

With mountains, glorious countryside and river valleys all close at hand, Carlow is a hidden gem.

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿Join Fionnuala Fallon – gardener and Irish Times gardening columnist – for an engaging and practical workshop focused on creating your own sustainable perennial cut-flower garden

Date: Monday, 28th July at 3 p.m.
Venue: Delta Sensory Gardens, Strawhall, Carlow R93 Y959
Admission: €12.50 which includes admission to Delta Sensory Gardens

👉Get your tickets here: https://t.co/ISiV4V6tPh

Designed for both beginners and experienced growers, this session explores how to cultivate a beautiful, long-lasting flower garden that’s in harmony with nature.

Returning year after year, perennials provide a reliable source of blooms with less long-term input. Fionnuala will share her expert knowledge on selecting hardy, pollinator-friendly perennials that thrive in Irish conditions and offer exceptional value as cut flowers. Participants will learn how to plan and design a perennial flower patch that provides colour, structure and texture throughout the seasons.

The workshop will explore sustainable gardening practices, including soil health, plant division, mulching and organic pest control. Fionnuala will also discuss the importance of biodiversity and how a perennial cut-flower garden can support pollinators, beneficial insects and wildlife year-round.

Attendees will gain practical advice on establishing and maintaining your garden, choosing flowers for extended vase life, and harvesting techniques that encourage regrowth and longevity. Whether you have a large garden or a small space, this session will give you the tools and inspiration to create a thriving, low-impact cut-flower garden that brings lasting beauty indoors and out.

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿Join celebrated historian, tree enthusiast and author Thomas Pakenham for a special journey into the world of trees.

Date: Monday, 28th July at 11 a.m
Venue: Huntington Castle and Gardens, Clonegal, Co. Carlow Y21 K237
Admission: €12.50 which includes admission to Huntington Castle Gardens

👉Get your tickets here: https://t.co/m34f46XB37
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.

INSIDER TIP: Signed copies of The Tree Hunters – How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed Our Landscape will be available on the day, while stocks last. To avoid disappointment, you can reserve your copy in advance by emailing [email protected] – we’ll have it ready and waiting for you.

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿In this engaging talk, A Tale of Two Gardens, Matthew Wilson reflects on his time managing two of the UK’s most iconic RHS gardens — Hyde Hall in Essex and Harlow Carr in Harrogate — offering a behind-the-scenes look at the contrasting challenges, opportunities and transformations of these beloved public spaces.

Date: Sunday 27th, 3 p.m.
Venue: Duckett’s Grove, Kneestown, Carlow
Admission: €20

👉Book your place now: https://t.co/vbb9ROt3yW

During his tenure with the Royal Horticultural Society, Matthew played a key role in shaping both gardens, bringing his creative vision, practical experience and deep understanding of landscape design to the fore. At Hyde Hall, he oversaw significant developments on a dry, windy hilltop site, turning it into a flourishing garden showcasing drought-tolerant planting and innovative design. In contrast, Harlow Carr in Yorkshire, with its cooler, wetter climate, demanded a different approach — one that embraced its naturalistic setting and northern heritage.

Gardeners attending this talk will come away with a wealth of practical insights, from plant selection and design ideas to adapting planting schemes to different conditions and making the most of your garden’s microclimate. Matthew will share the design principles, planting strategies and maintenance techniques that worked — and those that didn’t — in these two very different environments, providing valuable takeaways for gardens of all sizes.

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿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 perspectives on working in harmony with nature.

Date: Sunday 27th July, 11 a.m.
Venue: An Gairdín Beo, Dublin Road, Carlow R93 E1HF
Admission: €12.50

👉Book your place now: https://t.co/46FB9I7We4

For many years, June’s 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 talk 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!

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿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.

Date: Saturday 26th July, 7.30 p.m.
Venue: Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow R93 P9F4
Admission: €25.

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.

👉Book your place now: https://t.co/9472Vjayni

For Peter, his 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.

🌿This year, sustainability takes centre stage, with the introduction of a dedicated shuttle bus service connecting all garden festival venues across the county from five locations in Carlow Town. Visitors are encouraged to leave the car behind and enjoy the stunning Carlow countryside in a more environmentally friendly way.

For more information and bus bookings visit: https://t.co/YdhKGPrrPr

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia @ArboretumGC
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿New for 2025, Carlow Garden Festival will be offering a dedicated bus service to venues for attendees.

Taking the bus, you’ll be able to sit back, enjoy the scenery and chat to your fellow gardening enthusiasts on the way!

For more information and bus bookings visit: https://t.co/YdhKGPrrPr

Carlow Garden Festival is offering a dedicated bus service from five venues in Carlow Town (Seven Oaks Hotel, Talbot Hotel, Woodford Dolmen Hotel, and Railway and Bus Station) to each venue for attendees. The Climate Action team of Carlow County Council, in conjunction with Carlow Tourism and the Ring A Link bus service are offering this bus service to support carbon reduction in County Carlow.

We advise passengers to allow sufficient time for connections and onward travel plans.

Visitors are welcome to ring Carlow Tourist Office
T: 059-9130411 E: [email protected] to secure details of alternative rail and bus connections.

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌿Are you ready for Carlow Garden Festival 2025?

From Saturday, July 26th to Sunday, August 3rd, the beautiful gardens and stately homes of County Carlow will host the Carlow Garden Festival 2025, a spectacular celebration of gardens, heritage, nature, horticultural inspiration and sustainability.

Now in its 23rd year, this beloved festival brings together some of the most celebrated gardening minds from Ireland and the UK in a nine-day programme of talks, guided tours, garden visits, workshops and culinary experiences. Informative demonstrations and talks will be delivered by some of the top names in gardening circles including Adam Frost of BBC Gardeners World along with Peter O’Mahony, Irish rugby international and passionate gardener. The calibre of speakers is a standout feature of the Carlow Garden Festival, attracting some of the most respected voices in horticulture and helping to position the festival as the leading event of its kind in Ireland.

👉The full programme can be viewed at: https://t.co/K57Cs7UCbd with handy booking links.

🌿This year a dedicated shuttle bus service connecting all garden festival venues across the county is available from five locations in Carlow Town including the Seven Oaks Hotel, Talbot Hotel, Woodford Dolmen Hotel and Carlow bus and train stations.

Visitors are encouraged to leave the car behind and enjoy the stunning Carlow countryside in a more environmentally friendly way. The new service supports the festival’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint while making it easier for attendees to access multiple events with ease.

Please remember that we are always at the end of a phone line should you experience any difficulties in reserving tickets or have a query that is not addressed within the FAQ section.

We look forward to having you with us in this nine-day dedicated festival of gardening fun and inspiration!
@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland @Bordbia
#WanderOffTheTrack #CarlowGardenFestival #tourismireland #carlow #carlowtourism #irelandsancienteast #discoverireland #tourismireland #carlowcation

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🍃Step into nature and history on this captivating walk along the Clashganny Viewing Point Loop.

Departing from the famed viewing spot at Clashganny, the walk travels downhill towards the River Barrow. From there a rugged path, narrow in places, runs through deciduous woodland before passing an old mass rock to join the old towpath immediately adjacent to the river, where horses pulled barges for transport. After a short distance, Ballykeenan Lock is reached and from there the walk re-enters the forest to return to the starting point.

👉Book your ticket: https://t.co/dA9GfXdVeL

▪️Date and Time: Sunday, 27th April 2025 at 10 a.m.
▪️Tickets: €15

▪️Actual Distance: 6km
▪️Walk Duration: 3hrs (approx.)

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland
#WanderOffTheTrack #IrelandsAncientEast #KeepDiscovering #inCarlow #CarlowTourism #Carlow #walkingfestival

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

The Blackstairs Mountains are a landscape of remarkable ecological and scenic value, designated as a Special Area of Conservation to protect their rich biodiversity. Their moorlands—unique in Carlow and Wexford above 300 metres—are a rare and precious habitat where wet and dry heaths support a tapestry of plant life. This diverse environment is a haven for wildlife, with red grouse, skylarks, pheasants and woodcocks thriving in the heathland.

👉Book your ticket: https://t.co/qJqiuvYaYv

This walk is the perfect opportunity to discover more about this unique landscape, immersing yourself in its ever-changing scenery, wildlife and rich biodiversity. The walk begins at the well-known viewing spot of the Nine Stones on the Blackstairs Mountains before descending towards the cattle grid on the Mountain Road. The route then loops around Tomduff, leading up to the cairn on Slievebawn and returns to the Nine Stones vantage point. Here, you can take in an unrivalled panorama of Carlow’s rich and colourful countryside, stretching across the southeast like a vibrant tapestry. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of the distant Welsh coastline.

From the Nine Stones, the walk continues through Corrabut Gap and ascends Kilbrannish Hill, offering more stunning views. The route then follows the South Leinster Way, winding down to the peaceful village of Kildavin, where this scenic and rewarding hike concludes.

Date and Time: Sunday, 27th April, 2025
Tickets: €25
Registration: Conway's Pub & Lounge, Kildavin, Carlow Y21 PX98 at 8.30 a.m.
Actual Distance: 19km
Walk Duration: 5hrs (approx.)

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland
#WanderOffTheTrack #IrelandsAncientEast #KeepDiscovering #inCarlow #CarlowTourism #Carlow #walkingfestival

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Join us on April 27th for a mountain walk focusing on hill walking skills and getting the most from your walking trips!🏞️

Book now: https://t.co/71BazNXRCr

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

🌙Experience the magic of the Blackstairs Mountains by night on April 26th! Enjoy stunning views of Carlow with an experienced guide.

Book now: https://t.co/nOGvBTC5ae

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Join mindfulness expert Mary Clare Harte for a restorative walk through Clogrennane Wood on April 25th! Immerse in nature & learn tips for cultivating a positive mindset 🌿🧘‍♀️

Book now: https://t.co/79A0TIWh9W

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Join us on Saturday, April 26th for scenic walks along the River Barrow! Explore from Goresbridge to Bagenalstown. Learn about the river’s history & enjoy breathtaking views. 🌿

Book now: https://t.co/ngtYe04qz2

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Explore the beauty & history of the River Barrow! Join scenic walks on the Barrow Way from Bagenalstown to Leighlinbridge. Walk through history, nature & wildlife!

📅 April 26th
Tickets: https://t.co/x39Z1RahzI
@CarlowCountyCouncil @FailteIreland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Explore the Blackstairs Mountains! Join a 19km walk through stunning views, wildlife & biodiversity. Starts at Nine Stones, ends in Kildavin. 🌿
📅 April 26th, 9 AM
Tickets: https://t.co/5r2egpyzAD
@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland #WanderOffTheTrack

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

Join us for a guided walk through the Blackstairs Mountains, where you’ll discover the fascinating history of the area. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this six-hour mountain trek offers a deep dive into the area’s ancient past, revealing the many stories etched into its rugged landscape.

Ample time will be taken to pause and discuss the history and significance of these sites. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this walk is a great opportunity to connect with the ancient heritage of this special area.
Please note that normal hill walking gear is required for this walk.

👉Book your ticket: https://t.co/EQkcwL0FPR

Date and Time: Saturday, 26th April, 2025 at 9.00 a.m.
Registration: Ballymurphy Hall, Ballymurphy, Borris, Carlow 8.30 a.m. R95 NN62
Walk Duration: 6hrs (approx.)

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland
#WanderOffTheTrack #IrelandsAncientEast #KeepDiscovering #inCarlow #CarlowTourism #Carlow #walkingfestival

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

All roads lead to Carlow for the Spring Walking Festival 2025!

This walk begins in picturesque Knockmulgurry on the Blackstairs Mountains. Walk along old trails and paths, passing by traditional stone walls and remnants of old farmsteads that tell a story of former times. Rich in history and folklore, Knockmulgurry is the ideal setting for walkers that seek a challenging and tranquil walk.

Your trek continues onto Blackstairs Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Carlow and Wexford. From there your walk takes you to Scullogue Gap, a hidden gem nestled between the peaks, and an important focal point of activities in the 1798 rebellion. The walk continues onto Knockroe and from there the route climbs to the RTÉ TV mast which transmits television to the region. Wonderful views along with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the heritage and natural beauty of the Blackstairs Mountains makes this a wonderful walking experience.

👉Book your ticket: https://t.co/YAczWwXB2E

Date and Time: Saturday, 26th April 2025 at 9.00 a.m.
Registration: Ballymurphy Hall, Ballymurphy, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 NN62 at 8.30 a.m.
Actual Distance: 17.4km
Walk Duration: 7hrs (approx.)

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland
#WanderOffTheTrack #IrelandsAncientEast #KeepDiscovering #inCarlow #CarlowTourism #Carlow #walkingfestival

[carlow tourism @carlowtourism]

All roads lead to Carlow for the Spring Walking Festival 2025! 🍃

With a wide selection of walks to choose from, all ranked in order of their difficulty and duration, this festival which takes place from April 26th to 27th, 2025, is perfect for all levels of walkers!

👉Book your place now at https://t.co/8uDHiILwGY

Catering for those who love a leisurely walk, taking in and learning more about nature, biodiversity and their general surroundings, the walker with a thirst for history, those energised by the challenge of an invigorating mountain trek, and those who like the stillness of mindfulness. The walks are graded and timed to suit the capabilities of walkers in each category. All walks finish with soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee giving participants the opportunity to recap on their experiences.

Carlow is a gem in terms of spectacular scenery with the walking festival offering visitors the opportunity to walk through some of these stunning landscapes including The Blackstairs Mountains, Mount Leinster, Altamont Gardens, the South Leinster Way and Clogrennan Forest. All walks are led by knowledgeable guides and local walking enthusiasts and are of varying duration from 1.5 to five hours.

For further information on the walks, starting points and rules of participation and to book into the walks, log onto https://t.co/NDBkylYozE or phone [phone]. Details of special accommodation packages are available at https://t.co/5m2kthgtxB

The Carlow Spring Walking Festival has been supported by Carlow County Council under the Festival and Events Scheme.

@Carlow_Co_Co @Failte_Ireland
#WanderOffTheTrack #KeepDiscovering #inCarlow #CarlowTourism #Carlow #walkingfestival