National Botanic Gardens
Historic botanic garden in Glasnevin with glasshouses, riverside walks and seasonal family events, free to visit all year.
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About
Large botanical garden in Glasnevin with winding paths, lawns, and a mix of formal beds and wilder corners along the River Tolka. Families tend to drift between the big glasshouses, the rock garden, the vegetable plots and the arboretum, with plenty of space for buggies and kids who like to wander and look closely at plants, ponds and insects. The Victorian Palm House and Curvilinear Range feel like a different climate and are a big hit with children who notice the heat, height and huge leaves. Seasonal events like sculpture trails, pumpkin displays and craft markets add extra reasons to visit through the year. It works well for toddlers in buggies, primary-school kids who like to spot squirrels and birds, and teens who enjoy photography or just a slow loop in the fresh air.
- Victorian wrought-iron Palm House and Curvilinear glasshouses with tall tropical plants and cacti.
- Riverside paths along the River Tolka, with bridges and small viewing points.
- Arboretum and collections of rare trees, conifers and themed beds for children who like spotting different shapes and colours.
- Kitchen garden and glasshouse areas that show fruit, vegetables and herbs growing through the seasons.
- Regular guided tours, family nature walks and science talks, especially in spring, summer and during Biodiversity Week.
- Annual Sculpture in Context exhibition with large outdoor artworks placed throughout the garden.
- Seasonal markets and events, including sustainable Christmas craft markets and Halloween displays.
Where to find it
Good to know
About
Large botanical garden in Glasnevin with winding paths, lawns, and a mix of formal beds and wilder corners along the River Tolka. Families tend to drift between the big glasshouses, the rock garden, the vegetable plots and the arboretum, with plenty of space for buggies and kids who like to wander and look closely at plants, ponds and insects. The Victorian Palm House and Curvilinear Range feel like a different climate and are a big hit with children who notice the heat, height and huge leaves. Seasonal events like sculpture trails, pumpkin displays and craft markets add extra reasons to visit through the year. It works well for toddlers in buggies, primary-school kids who like to spot squirrels and birds, and teens who enjoy photography or just a slow loop in the fresh air.