FESTINA LENTE GARDENS

One of the few surviving restored walled Gardens in Ireland still in use today as it would have been in the late Victorian period. The House and gardens were home to the Plunkett family from 1807 until 1946. Each generation extended and modified the gardens which now stand at two and a half acres, divided into a Kitchen garden, pool and ornamental garden with the original walls dating back to 1780.The Festina Lente Foundation acquired the lease and commenced the garden restoration programme in line with a Historical Survey founded by the National Heritage Council. The main house and head gardener’s house are now in private ownership.

Directions: From Dublin southbound on N11, take first exit for Bray. At roundabout, take second exit for Bray town and proceed to traffic lights. Turn right onto Old Connaught Avenue. Entrance to Festina Lente is approximately ½ km on the right. From Wicklow northbound on N11, take the Bray / Rathmichael exit. Turn left off the slip road. Entrance to Festina Lente is approximately ¼ km on the right.

Open: 10-4pm Mon- Fri. From March 2010 10-4pm 7 days a week all year round.

Admission: A donation of €3 per Adult is requested Children are free but must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Booked Guided tour minimum number five €20

Facilities: Free Parking, Wheelchair Accessible, Toilets, Pet Friendly, Turtle Sanctuary, Guided Tours, Picnic’s allowed. Tea/Coffee available. View our Allotments, and Community Garden areas. Visit our New Garden Shop opening March 2010.

GPS Coordinates: N 53 12.628 W 6 07.220

Important Events: Victorian Garden party held outdoor in the ornamental garden in period costume each summer. Heritage day celebration, Lectures, Garden workshops, Halloween Treasure Hunt, Christmas tree sales