The delicate white and green blooms of the snowdrop, emerging through the cold winter ground, signal the start of the gardening year. Their arrival is celebrated across some of County Carlow’s most beautiful gardens, with a dedicated series of events and guided tours throughout February.
One of the highlights is Snowdrop Month at Altamont Gardens, running from February 1st to 28th. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore Altamont’s unique snowdrop collection, which was first started by the late Corona North, the former owner of the gardens. Over the past twenty years, the collection has been expanded and nurtured by the OPW (Office of Public Works), and it is now one of the largest in Ireland, featuring over 150 named varieties. Set within a 40-acre estate on the banks of the River Slaney near Tullow, Altamont Gardens offers a captivating mix of formal, informal and wild gardens, providing the perfect backdrop for these early spring flowers.
Guided tours are available daily, Monday to Friday, at 2 p.m. throughout February, with group tours available by appointment. The gardens are open for general viewing from 9 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. daily, with free admission and free guided tours. A small car parking fee of €2 per car applies, regardless of the length of your stay.
Now in its 24th year, Snowdrop Month at Altamont is an event that no gardening enthusiast should miss. While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Sugar and Spice Café, located in the Walled Garden, where you can enjoy hot drinks and delicious cakes. For those looking to take home a piece of the magic, Altamont Plant Sales will offer a collection of snowdrops for sale, including recent additions from Robert Miller of Altamont Plant Sales from the Avon Bulbs Collection.
For more information, visit www.heritageireland.ie or https://carlowgardentrail.com/whats-on/snowdrop-month-in-carlow/
T: 087-9822135