National Botanic Gardens
About
The National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, situated in the Glasnevin suburb of Dublin, spans 19.5 hectares of meticulously curated horticultural landscapes. Founded in 1795 by the Dublin Society, the gardens have evolved into a world‑class research and public amenity site, housing over 20,000 living plants and countless dried specimens in the National Herbarium. A visitor’s first draw is the impressive glasshouse architecture – the restored Palm House, the historic Curvilinear Range, and the celebrated Great Palm House – showcasing Victorian ironwork and modern conservation techniques. The Curvilinear Range, designed by Richard Turner and awarded for conservation excellence, and the expansive Palm House, a former tropical rainforest, are both architectural landmarks that illustrate the gardens’ heritage and scientific mission. Admission is free for all visitors; however, guided tours are available at €5 per person, requiring pre‑booking by arrangement. Visitors can explore the gardens any day of the year, taking advantage of the open hours listed on the official site, and can book tours directly via the gardens’ online portal.
Highlights
- Palm House
- Curvilinear Range
- Historical Gardens
- Free Public Access