Gardener’s Delight: Events And Inspiration For Green Fingers

By Penny McCormick March 28 2025

Special events and inspiration for gardening lovers …

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EVENTS OF NOTE

On Mother’s Day weekend, meet expert beekeeper Michael Wilde from Tara Hill Honey in Co Wexford at Bees & Blossoms in Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, Dublin. He will lead short 15-minute workshops, offering insights into the world of bees, their life cycle, and honey production. To help support local pollinators, each workshop will end with a sunflower planting activity. Participants will receive a biodegradable pot and sunflower seed to take home, encouraging families to grow their own bee-friendly flowers at home. www.liffeyvalley.ie @liffey_valley

Organic gardeners Jo Newton, Kitty Sully and Jim Cronin are some of the speakers at Clare Garden Festival at Ennis Showgrounds in April. www.claregardenfestival.com @claregardenfestival

The Irish Specialist Nurseries Association plant fairs take place in April at Farmleigh House, Phoenix Park, Co Dublin; in May at Mallow Home and Garden Show, Co Cork; in August at Loughcrew Estate, Oldcastle, Co Meath; and in September at Fota House and Garden, Co Cork. www.irishspecialistnurseriesassociation.com @irishspecialistnurseries

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The Easter Bunny Trail at Mount Congreve Gardens in Co Waterford is the perfect place for families to explore, followed by Restival on the May bank holiday weekend where pilates, yoga and wellness talks are part of the programme. www.mountcongreve.com @mountcongreve

Mount Congreve cottage

SEE MORE: Sara Dolan From Mount Congreve Gardens Lives In A Pretty Gardener’s Cottage

Northern Ireland’s newest garden centre, Langtry Lane, Co Down is worth a detour if you happen to be in the vicinity of Moira. It comprises an extensive nursery, with the largest selection of David Austen roses I’ve seen anywhere. There’s also a great gift shop, lovely café and children’s play area. Stay locally at Ralph’s on Main Street, a 13-bedroom boutique hotel decorated with floral headboards, beside the acclaimed Wine & Brine restaurant. Don’t leave without a trip to Hannan’s The Meat Merchant to stock up on deli and picnic items! @langtrylane

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Flowers – Flora in Contemporary Art & Culture at Saatchi Gallery in London comprises 500 artworks, including this huge dried flower installation by Rebecca Louise Law, as well as floral gems by Buccellati. www.saatchigallery.com @saatchi_gallery

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Cecil Beaton’s Garden Party at The Garden Museum in London explores how his passion for flowers and gardening provided inspiration for his work as a photographer and set designer. www.gardenmuseum.org @gardenmuseum

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Stay at Number 16, near Kensington Gardens and the V&A Museum. Its pretty Orangery restaurant and secluded garden are perfect for leisurely morning coffees and evening cocktails. www.firmdalehotels.com @firmdale_hotels

OUR INSPIRATION

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