Celebrate Heritage Week at Powerscourt Estate! Join the largest motor club in Ireland, the Irish Vintage and Veteran Car Club (IVVCC), for their 36th rally at Powerscourt. The event talks place on the 17^th of August between 2.30pm and 5.30pm.

The star of the show will be Lord Powerscourt’s 1937 Ford Model ‘Y’ which its current owner is bringing home to the Estate for the event.  With over 150 cars expected at this year’s event, there are sure to be plenty of classics for you to enjoy! Chat with motor enthusiasts and marvel at the stylish array of vintage vehicles on display.

Everyone is welcome to come dressed to impress in their best vintage clothes! Many car owners dress up to match the age of their vehicles so expect plenty of razzle dazzle from feminine flapper dresses from the roaring 20’s to 1950's retro rock and roll frocks.  The event is free of charge and all are welcome. For more information visit www.powerscourt.com/events  

Walk on the Wild side of Wicklow, with RTÉ’s Dale Treadwell! Dale will be taking children on a guided nature trail and bio blitz of Powerscourt Gardens in Wicklow, located in one of Ireland’s most breath-taking country estates.

Kids will enjoy discovering the secret world of mini-beasts and hunting for the insects and plants that live at Powerscourt.  Did you know that butterflies taste with their feet, that we have fifteen types of ladybirds in Ireland and that Grasshoppers are able to jump up to twenty times their own length? Dale will uncover our natural Wicklow habitat for families so they can learn about bugs and beasties and the plants in which they live. There will also be outdoor eco games for everyone to enjoy.

Dale Treadwell is an Aussie with a background in Bushland Restoration living in Ireland for nearly a decade. His company ‘Naturally Wild’ educates both old and young alike with our great outdoors in a fun and informative way. You can catch Dale on ‘Albie the Why Guy’ on RTÉ. Tickets to his guided walk at Powerscourt are limited and must be booked in advance. Visit www.powerscourt.com/events to book your place.

Wilds of Wicklow Foraging Walk

It's nearly harvest time! Would you like to discover the art of foraging wild and edible foods such as wild flowers, herbs, walnuts, berries, mushrooms and garlic? Join Niall O’Sullivan and Paul Quinn from Nádúr Collective for a guided foraging walk along Powerscourt River Walk on 14^th September at 11am and again at 2pm. Usually reserved exclusively for Powerscourt annual members, the river walk offers natural, unspoilt beauty and this is a great opportunity for members of the public to visit this tranquil, hidden gem.

During this educational two hour walk through one of Wicklow's most unspoilt locations,  you will be shown edible food plants with practical advice on how best to use them at home or in a professional kitchen.  From cooking to preserving techniques; the Nádúr Collective will show you the best way to make use of nature's best ingredients – from your backyard to your dinner table in a unique and informative approach. 

With over forty combined years’ experience in professional kitchens and a passion for wild foods, Nádúr Collective’s aim is to get people back in touch with food, nature and nutrition. Niall O’Sullivan is head chef of Isabel’s restaurant on Baggot Street while Paul Quinn is co-owner of the Three Q's restaurant in Greystones. To book tickets to the event visit www.powerscourt.com/events

Just up the road from us at Powerscourt is the beautiful Sugar Loaf Mountain! Why not take a walk and enjoy the marvellous Wicklow views next time you are in the area!

It’s barely 501 metres tall, but this plucky hill is one of Ireland’s most iconic peaks.

Set apart from the Wicklow Mountains, its conical shape and broody demeanour make an instant impression. Is it an extinct volcano? No, though its appearance has led many to think so. In fact, and in contrast to the granite hulks to the south and west, the Sugar Loaf is quartzite.

Its bark is worse than its bite, of course. If you’re reasonably fit, and don’t mind a bit of scrambling on the rocky final stretch, you can be up and back from the summit in little over an hour (access is to the south along the L1031). It’s a hugely popular outing for Dublin day-trippers.

On a clear day here, from a perch dusted with snow and frost in colder climes (hence the name), you can see not only Dublin City and the Wicklow Mountains, but Snowdonia in Wales.

Of course, if you’d rather not scramble on hands and knees, there are more salubrious ways of enjoying the mountain… not least the views from the Sugar Loaf Lounge of the nearby Powerscourt Hotel or the Terrace Café at Powerscourt.

The Great Sugar Loaf Mountain is near the villages of Kilmacanogue & Enniskerry.

• For more on Kilmacanogue go to:   http://visitwicklow.ie/towns-villages/kilmacanogue
• For more on Enniskerry go to:   http://visitwicklow.ie/towns-villages/enniskerry

The Great Sugar Loaf can be found on the following routes:

• Grand Tour
• Coastal Views
• Wilds of Wicklow

Enjoy your trip to the Sugar Loaf! Happy Walking :)

Content: Courtesty of Failte Ireland 

Perfect your Pet! Train the canine in your life at Powerscourt

Join Samantha Rawson on Saturday 13^th September at 2pm in Powerscourt Garden Pavilion for a demonstration on training the canine in your life! Samantha C.A.A.B. is a certified dog behaviourist and therapist who uses motivational and reward based methods. She has over twenty years of professional experience and knowledge to address almost any dog training or behaviour problem.

Samantha says "I love training dogs as all dogs are individuals and dogs and their owners are as unique as each other. Samantha's approach to training is highly motivational for both partners in the relationship! The demonstration is free of charge and no booking is required. Please leave your own canine at home for the event. Visit the website www.powerscourtgardenpavilion.com/events for more information.

It is nearly time to experience the magic of our traditional rural festival once again!

The Enniskerry Victorian Field Day CHARITY event will take place this year on Sunday, September 14^th at Knocklinn Farm on the Ballyman Road. It’s a beautiful setting overlooking the seaside town of Bray, with the backdrop of the Majestic Sugarloaf Mountains.

We are thrilled to announce that our charity partner for 2014 is Lakers, a Sport and Recreational Club for Children and Adults with an intellectual disability. The club provides a wide range of sporting, educational and essential support services to its 350 members across Leinster. Lakers celebrate their 25^th Anniversary this year.

The Enniskerry Victorian Field Day is growing in size and popularity; attracting over 4,500 people each year and has become a popular permanent fixture on the North Wicklow/South Dublin calendar.

The weekend will be kicked off with a traditional Victorian Rag Man’s Ball on the night of Friday the 12th of September 2014. 

Festival events include Steam engines at work, Vintage Car and Tractor Shows, Tug of War battles and Sheaf Pitching! Visitors can enjoy rambling through the craft stalls at the ‘Schoolhouse for Art’ Artisan Market and savor Wicklow's rich culinary delights at our Food Fair.

Other great highlights include Archery, Falconry, Horseshoe Throwing, Arm Wrestling, Nail Driving, Traditional Children's Games, Puppetry, Pony Rides, old-fashioned Carousels, live music and so much more. There are lots of fantastic prizes to be won!

This year we are excited to introduce our "Doggie Village"!! Wonder Paws Pet Dog Training at Festina Lente Bray will be the hosts welcoming all breeds, shapes and sizes to enjoy a ‘pawsome’ Doggie Day Out with full agility course, grooming salon, expert advice on dog adoption, nutrition, training and a fun Dog Show!

For extra enjoyment come along in Victorian costume and be in with a chance of winning some superb prizes in our ‘Best Dressed’ competition.

Proceeds are in aid of the Lakers and the local parishes Enniskerry. The admission is only €10 per person, €5 OAPs and kids go free!! There is free parking and the event is wheelchair accessible.

www.enniskerryfestival.ie

www.facebook.com/EnniskerryVictorianFieldDay

Powerscourt Garden Pavilion and Bray Cancer Support Centre invite you to join them for a morning of health information talks, a fashion show, raffle, coffee and more on Wednesday 1st October from 11am-1pm.

Managing Director of Powerscourt Estate Sarah Slazenger pictured with TV3 Presenter Sinead Desmond and Veronica O’Leary, Founder and CEO of Bray Cancer Support Centre.

The morning will be in aid of Bray Cancer Support Centre and will feature talks from: Veronica O'Leary, founder of Bray Cancer Support Centre, 'Cancer support in the community', Darragh Flynn, The Happy Pear, 'Give yourself a boost! The health benefits of sprouts and wheatgrass' and Isobel Jordan, Dip. Herb, Dip. Nat., MINA, MIRH. 'Health and well-being using diet and herbs.'

There will also be a fashion show featuring clothes from Jenny Turner and designer Liz Quin and accessories and jewellery from The Design Loft.  To add some fun to the morning, there will be a prize for the best dressed lady and gent in purple, the official colour of the Bray Cancer Support Centre.

The morning will also feature an amazing raffle, with prizes such as Avoca hampers, annual membership of Powerscourt Estate, clothes from our designers and much more! The Powerscourt Hotel ESPA will provide a nail bar at the event.

All funds raised from the morning will go to Bray Cancer Support Centre's services in Wicklow and Dublin. Services include counselling, support programmes and complimentary therapies. To find out more visit www.braycancersupport.ie  

www.powerscourtgardenpavilion.com/events 

Over 150 people from the travel industry, local community, family and friends gathered at Powerscourt Estate in Wicklow last Thursday for an evening celebration in the gardens. The event was to mark the accolade from the National Geographic, which voted Powerscourt Gardens no. 3 in the World’s Top 10 Gardens. Other European countries to make it onto the list included Chateau de Versailles in France (1^st) and the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, England (2^nd).

Matthew Jackson, Managing Director of National Geographic Traveller, travelled to Wicklow to present the award to MD of Powerscourt, Sarah Slazenger.  He enjoyed a private tour of the gardens with Head Gardener Michael Byrne. Guests enjoyed listening to a string quartet on the terraces overlooking the Sugarloaf Mountain and drinks and canapés in the gardens.

Niall Gibbons (CEO Tourism Ireland), Sarah Slazenger (Managing Director, Powerscourt Estate), Matthew Jackson (Managing Director, National Geographic Traveller)

Matthew Jackson (Managing Director, National Geographic Traveller) presents Powerscourt Estate with their award for No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens to Sarah Slazenger (Managing Director, Powerscourt Estate)

Powerscourt Gardens is awarded No.3 in the World’s Top Ten Gardens by the National Geographic

Managing Director of Powerscourt Estate Sarah Slazenger pictured with her husband William Micklem and children Leo, Sam and Holly Micklem.

Sara Waldburg (Marketing Manager, Houses, Castles and Gardens), Aoife O’Driscoll (Marketing Manager, Powerscourt Estate) Ruth Andrews (CEO, ITOA), Eoghan O’Mara-Walsh (MD, O’ Mara Consultancy)

Head Gardener Michael Byrne (Pictured centre with the award) with the Powerscourt Gardeners Derek Whelan, Dermot Lacy, Ken Griffiths and Alex Slazenger.

Members of the Powerscourt House reception team past and present including Frances O’Neill, Ger Meindl, Justin Smith, Bridget Greaves, Mary Feeney and Doreen Driver.

Meet Niall Hatch from Bird Watch Ireland for a free talk on bird-watching at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion in County Wicklow on 20^th of September at 10:30am. Over 450 different bird species have been recorded in Ireland, an impressive total for a European island and making it a very exciting and interesting country for bird-watching. Learn about where and when to watch birds, how to buy and use binoculars, how to choose identification books and how to attract birds into your garden.

Niall will also give you some useful tips on how to find bird-watching events and activities! The talk is mainly aimed at complete beginners with no prior knowledge, but will certainly also be of benefit to anyone looking to improve their bird-watching skills or who wants to become more involved with local bird-watching groups and wildlife conservation. The event is free of charge and no booking is required.

About Bird Watch Ireland: Bird Watch Ireland is the largest independent conservation organisation in Ireland. Established in 1968, they currently have over 14,000 members and supporters and a local network of over 20 branches nationwide. 

Here is another event this weekend that you mught like to come along to! 

http://blog.powerscourt.ie/blog/perfect-your-pet-train-the-canine-in-your-life-at-powerscourt 

Spooky Fest kicks off at Powerscourt Estate in North Wicklow this October bank holiday weekend with the 3^rd annual spooky walk and pumpkin carving. It's a great day out for those looking for things to do for Halloween in Dublin and Wicklow.

The ghosts and ghouls of the estate are creeping out into the haunted woods of Powerscourt gardens. And so is Imaginosity, Dublin Children's Museum. With only a map to lead them to safety, brave families will be sure to encounter some creepy characters along their journey including the Corpse Bride and a witch through Powerscourt's 47 acres of haunted grounds. This family walk takes place on Saturday 25^th October.

Whether you're a first-time pumpkin carver or an experienced pro, come along to Powerscourt Garden Pavilion on 26^th and 27^th of October for a Halloween Party. Kids will love the chance to prepare, design and carve a pumpkin into something festive and fun. Afterwards, you can bring your pumpkin home with you and enjoy it during the festive period.

All little goblins and ghouls are welcome to dress up in their Halloween finery and get into the festive spirit. Both events are suitable for children aged 3-10. Places are limited and can be booked online in advance on www.powerscourt.com/events

One of Ireland’s great design success stories, Global Village Interiors, celebrates its 25th anniversary this month – all thanks to a couple’s struggle to furnish their apartment! Global Village has two stores, one based in our very own Powerscourt House.

Husband and wife Martin and Colette Lenehan set out with a vision to introduce quality interior products to the Irish market in 1989, after a fruitless search to outfit their small home in the way they wanted. Over the last 25 years, Global Village has turned that vision into reality, becoming one of the few interiors businesses to survive and thrive during the recession.

Their decision to become a flagship outlet for Neptune in Ireland established them as must-visit interiors destinations both in Powerscourt and KCR in Kimmage, which has the biggest range of Neptune products in Ireland. “We’ve always had a thing about quality, value and the unusual and, to this day, we don’t compromise on our values," said Martin.

The first Global Village shop opened in Glasthule, Co Dublin offering an eclectic mix of ethnic style furniture and accessories such as Afghan chests and Chinese Ming Dynasty-style sideboards. “Although our customers in the area appreciated what we did, we realised that if we were going to advance the business we had to change our business model to attract more customers,” said Martin. The company then moved to bigger premises in the Blackrock Centre where their passion for quality products and great customer service quickly became known. "The Blackrock store became a haunt for designers, architects and customers with a passion for interiors, which is where the brand really started to take off," said Colette.

With the opening of their two present showrooms in Powerscourt House (1999) and KCR in 2005, Global Village Interiors became synonymous with an individual style of quality and quirky interior products. It was their decision-making during the recession that was to be the making of the company. “The furniture business was falling off a cliff and we knew we couldn’t continue to do the same thing or we wouldn’t survive,” said Martin. “That’s when we discovered Neptune – a high-end company who shared the values we really looked for in furniture.  “Neptune furniture is out on its own – high quality, handmade, solid wood. This is furniture with soul. It’s good to use, to feel, to touch and everything about the product is emotive. "Global Village's motto is quality never goes out of style, and even in a depressed market we invested heavily in our showrooms. As a result, we now have the biggest range of Neptune products in Ireland under one roof in the KCR showroom."

Martin and Colette admit it’s been difficult to separate their home and work life as they have lived, slept and breathed what they do, especially over the last five years. It’s that passion and love for Interior Design that has kept them in business. “The real reward for us is to see customers genuinely fall in love with their homes,” said Collette. “We have 25 years’ experience in the interiors business, and customers can get that for free. We also provide a full interior design service. “My advice to a consumer who wants a nice home is to get professional advice, talk to someone who knows what they’re doing. They do it once or twice in their lives – we do this every day."

To find out more about Global Village, visit their website.

Health & Wellness Coffee Morning in aid of Bray Cancer Support Centre

Over 120 people came to support a health and wellness morning at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion on 1^st October and helped raise €1,223.97 in aid of Bray Cancer Support Centre.

Guests enjoyed a lively morning starting with a talk from the centre’s founder Veronica O’Leary, who was recently honoured with a ‘Community Health Award’ at Wicklow’s People of the Year Awards. There were top tips on the health benefits of all things green including sprouts and wheatgrass from the Happy Pear’s grower Darragh Flynn and well-known nutritionist Isobel Jordan.

Karl Tsigdinos from RTE’s Lyric FM spun a few sounds to a lively Fashion Show including the latest fashions from The Design Loft at Powerscourt Estate, Designer Liz Quin and Jenny Turner Boutique in Enniskerry Village.  Afterwards, guests relaxed at the ESPA nail bar, courtesy of the Powerscourt Hotel.

There was a fantastic raffle and lucky winners went home with prizes including a family membership for Powerscourt Estate, Christmas lanterns from the Garden Pavilion, jewellery from the Design loft, a deluxe Avoca hamper, vouchers for Estate and Global Village Stores in Powerscourt House and Jenny Turner Boutique, a Liz Quin coat and a Happy Pear juicer and cookery book set.

To add some fun to the morning, there was a prize for the best dressed lady in purple, the official colour of the Bray Cancer Support Centre and the winner was Amanda Doyle.

All funds raised from the morning will go to Bray Cancer Support Centre's services in Wicklow and Dublin. Services include counselling, support programmes and complimentary therapies. To find out more visit www.braycancersupport.ie  

Powerscourt Golf Club Manager Bernard Gibbons was recognised in the golf industry this week by being awarded the prestigious 2014 “IGTOA Golf Manager of the Year” award. The annual Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA) awards ceremony took place in Knockranny House Westport, with guests including An Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Ryder Cup hero Christy O’Connor Jnr.

Sarah Slazenger Managing Director of Powerscourt Golf Club said of the award "Bernard is an exceptional man as well as an exceptional manager. At Powerscourt we have known for 17 years about his great ability. It is therefore only appropriate that this year Powerscourt has been chosen as Best Parkland Venue and Bernard has been chosen as Golf Manager of the Year. I congratulate Bernard on this special honour."

Bernard Gibbons (General Manager, Powerscourt Golf Club), accepting his award from Shane O’Donoghue (Host of "Living Golf" on CNN)

With nearly 50 years’ experience in the golf industry, Bernard has enjoyed a wide and varied career since beginning as an apprentice to the legendary John Jacobs at age 15 at the driving range in Leopardstown Race Course. His numerous roles have included Golf Professional, RTÉ golf pundit and commentator, Chairman of the Golf Course Owners Association and board member of the Special Olympics Committee. He has been at the helm of Powerscourt for the past 17 years since the golf club opened in 1997.

Bernard Gibbons (General Manager, Powerscourt Golf Club), Denis Kane (Chairman of the Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association)

At the reception Bernard said “From the time I started my golfing career I always wanted to be at the top, whether it was playing the game, teaching, or administration; this award has achieved that for me. I am honoured to have been chosen as Golf Manager of the year, and thank all those who have helped me achieve this honour.”

Some highlights during Bernard’s career at Powerscourt include hosting prestigious tournaments such as the 1998 Irish PGA Championship, won by Padraig Harrington, the 2001 Irish Seniors Open and the 2012 PGA Southern Championship. It has been the venue of choice for many of the Mens’ and Ladies Golfing Unions of Ireland events, as well as the popular annual Powerscourt PGA PRO AM. In 2014, the Golfer’s Guide to Ireland rated Powerscourt ‘Best Parkland Venue in Ireland.’ Powerscourt Golf Club is a member of the East Coast Golf Alliance.

Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance has been announced as European Golf Destination of the Year in the annual golf industry “Oscars”, the IAGTO Awards. Members of Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance include Wicklow Golf Clubs, Powerscourt and Druid’s Glen.

More than 540 golf tour operators in 62 countries, all members of the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) voted Dublin East Coast as the European Golf Destination of the Year in the 2015 IAGTO Awards. The Award recognises the greatest achievements of golf destinations and golf resorts in terms of the experience they deliver to travelling golfers and the professionalism with which the destination and local industry work with golf tour operators.

This prestigious award was presented to Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance Director Aine Mangan at the IAGTO Awards Gala Dinner in Lake Como Italy on Thursday 30th October 2014 on the final night of the International Golf Travel Market.

“It is a great honour to accept this award and a wonderful recognition for the region from the world’s leading golf tour operators” said Mangan. “Dublin East Coast is home to some of the finest parkland and links courses and resorts all within easy access of Dublin International airport and the many attractions our capital city has to offer. Our aim is to consistently provide a great golf experience and warm welcome to our visitors to Ireland.”

Simon Gregory, Tourism Ireland’s Director of Markets, said: “Congratulations to Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance on being named European Golf Destination of the Year for 2015. This is a tremendous honour for the clubs working to promote this part of Ireland – and the superb golf on offer here. The fact that 540 golf tour operators in 62 countries voted for Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance is testament to the superb experience these clubs offer international golfers.

“Ireland has some of the greatest golf courses in the world – so it is wonderful to see them recognised by IAGTO in this way. No doubt this latest accolade for Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance will help to remind golf enthusiasts about our world-class golf, helping to boost golf tourism in 2015 and beyond – to the Dublin East Coast region and indeed, elsewhere around the island.”

Dublin East Coast Golf Alliance is a co-operative marketing group that was established in 2010 to promote Ireland’s Dublin East Coast region as a destination of choice for the golf tourist. By joining forces and working together, this has given a stronger impact internationally and helped explore more international markets. Members of this marketing group include Carton House, Druids Glen, Mount Juliet, Powerscourt, The Island Golf Club and The K Club. DECGA represents this region overseas at over 25 events on an annual basis and coordinates familiarisation trips for journalists, operators and Ambassadors to Ireland.

This region has hosted many prestigious golf tournaments, including the esteemed Irish and European Opens, the Seve Trophy as well as the Ryder Cup in 2006. Dublin East Coast not only has great golf courses but also world-class hotels, restaurants, bars attractions and hospitality and, indeed, most recently its very own Ryder Cup captain, Paul McGinley.

A Celebration of Christmas at Powerscourt Estate

Nothing says ‘Christmas’ like a visit to the atmospheric Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow with its tree-lined avenue, fir trees and majestic stately home! This year follow the star up the avenue at Powerscourt Estate where you will find a wonderful range of Christmas events for your family.

Dating back 800 years, Powerscourt is an enchanting and beautiful place to bring your children. Enjoy a crisp winter walk in Powerscourt Gardens, where 47 acres of discovery and intrigue await. Experience the magic of our Unique and Memorable Santa and his elves and visit his animal friends including the deer and miniature donkeys at the Christmas Stables. Santa and his animals are at Powerscourt from 29^th of November until the 23^rd of December. Tickets to Santa cost €10 and can be booked online through www.powerscourt.com/events while there is no cost to visit his animals in the stables at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion.

Popular Irish story-teller and actor Jack Lynch will be at Powerscourt Garden Pavilion on 6^th of December at 2.30pm for Christmas Story-telling. Bring along your family and enjoy his repertoire of Christmas tales, from well-known stories to ones that may be new to you! Jack is a founder member and current chairman of Storytellers of Ireland and of the Dublin Yarnspinners.

For the home and garden lover in your family, Powerscourt Garden Pavilion has some great Floral Art Classes to give your home the ‘Wow’ factor this Christmas! Using seasonal produce such as ivy and red berries, Orla McGrane and Brenda Joyce from the Association of Irish Floral Artists will create warming wreaths, gorgeous garlands and traditional table pieces to give your home that very personal touch. The talks take place on 19^th and 26^th of November and 3^rd of December at 10.30am in Powerscourt Garden Pavilion and cost €5 per session. Tickets can be booked online in advance on www.powerscourtgardenpavilion.com/events.  There’s so much to see and discover with your family at Powerscourt this Christmas. For more information on upcoming events and whats on in wicklow visit www.powerscourt.com

We recently ran a competition and asked our social media fans' Is Powerscourt a place to visit more than once, and why?' The prize was annual membership for one family and what we thought was the most intriguing and clear answer was the winner! Below are the entries and the winning entry was: 

Sue B: "Powerscourt Gardens is the most magnificent place to visit. You just can't see everything in one visit. As the seasons change the gardens change too. The beautiful thing about the gardens is the familiarity of the gardens, they welcome you each time like an old friend but as your welcomed in, its like you're finding things out about that friend you never knew. Lovely secrets at every turn. It's the one place you can go that you can lose yourself in time. You can visit every garden all at once or just sit back in your amazing surroundings and just watch the world go by. It truly is the closest place to Heaven. It lifts the heart, soothes the soul and energises the body"

Congrats Sue! Here are the other entries:  

Sharon K: Absolutely from the acres of springtime flowers to the snows of winter no two days are the same there is always something new to see :0)

Andrea C: I've been visiting powerscourt since I was a child, this magical place has held me captivated each and every time I go. From pretending to be a princess trapped in the tower or a geisha in the Japanese gardens, to first dates walking hand in hand around the lake, and the perfect place to practise photography skills in college right the way to today, when I take anyone who hasn't been before, half because I want to show powerscourt off to visitors, and half because I want an excuse to go again!

Beth H: Always something new to see and do in Powerscourt

Liz L: Everytime we visit the journey up the drive takes our breath away and that's only the beginning.There is something for everyone in such a magical place. It's fun for the family and also a place where my husband and I go when we want some time together in beautiful surroundings.Everytime I visit I get a warm tingling feeling it makes me do happy and I always look forward to our next visit.Thanks for all the memories, santa, communions, family days out..hope there will be many more happy memories in powerscourt.

Mira S: Any time I visit Dublin, powerscourt gardens is MUST. Every time it looks different but every time amazing!!!

Margaret C: because it is simply stunning and makes you happy to be alive!

Katherine OB: Powerscourt is a place to go and escape from everyday life. Its like another world in powerscourt

Fiona F: powerscourt is a year round beauty you have to see the pet graveyard in the damp dark weather the pepper tower in mid autumn surrounded by leaves and lunch should be enjoyed in high summer by the beautiful water and if your ever lucky enough to make it in the snow the entire world changes everything takes on a magical air and glow like something out of a fairytail much can be seen year round in powerscourt and much can be gained from seeing it 

Lyn K: A beautiful treat for all seasons!

Petra B: That must be the longest running competition ever. Over a year before we know the winner! But to answer the question: Powerscourt Estate is the most beautiful and peaceful place.

Cathy B: Beautiful peaceful place to walk around

Teresa C: powerscourt is like stepping back in time it is so beautiful as you step out on the terrace and view the italian gardens the grand steps down to them the japanese garden the pet cemetery of course you can enjoy the beautiful restaurant and shops here too you can sit out on the terrace and have your lucn and soak up the views of the the wicklow mountains

Martina B: Amazing and stunning the grounds are fab and inside is so lovely ..

Mark P: Love the gardens totally amazing would love to bring the kids for a chillaxing day

Andrea D: Because it is a timeless beauty!

Sarah C: Without a doubt it's a fantastic place for all ages. We were lucky to get a membership at Christmas last year and have loved it. The landscape changes weekly. There's fab events you can avail of weekly and the staff are amazing and super friendly. Fingers crossed Santa's good to us again this year x x

Elaine H: Most definitely love going different time of the year watching the seasons chamge in the leaves & flowers & savouring the peacefullness as you wander around the estate. Finishing off with a coffee in the avoca cafe.

Aisling ON: :It's an unspoilt beauty of Ireland 

Claudine C: Such a beautiful place to visit......I think I lived there in a past life and may have burried my pets at the pet cemetary !!!!! Merry Christmas

Sonja O: What a beautiful prize and one to share with all the family making memories in the great outdoors. Wonderful!

Michelle L: Yes definitely, it's looks different with every season, the different colours of trees in autumn are beautiful

Nat L: We go back as often as we can - why? Because it's a magical place somewhere between Narnia and Wonderland where I feel like a child again only happier. 

Celine H: I love Powerscourt it is just magical like Narnia in Wicklow...we have been many times and will continue to do so...we even visited the gardens when the house was in ruins....whenever we visit the locality we bring more visitors with us and recommend it to anyone going to visit the area   omg I honestly wrote this before reading anything else....it is magical...a few times we have been the weather was not too good but as soon as we stepped into the garden the sun was shining there....wonderful, beautiful, spectacular.....love it

Mick B: Every day is different..light, flowers.. Weather:) ..so every day is special..

Margaret McG: I would love to visit given the chance we have never been. I looks wonderful at any time of year.

Tanya H: Because the romance of Powerscourt grows stronger with every visit 

Angela G: Absolutely love it, on my own, with my husband or with the kids. It is a sanctuary and you can't but be in good form the minute you enter the driveway wander up the drive and make your way through the house & into the gardens . You are transported into another world almost its maintained so beautifully. Living close I visit as much as I possibly can and most especially throughout the Autumn months as the leaves change colour..it's just breathtaking # one of my favourite places in the world

Kelley M: I have been to ireland 4 times and missed seeing Powerscourt each visit, though I've wished to see it. This year I'm making it a priority. Just bought my airfare last night and in July I will be blessed to finally view it's splendors! So excited!

Roisin F: There are so many different ways to spend your time at Powerscourt it's a sin not to return and experience more. There's the beautiful Waterfall set into the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, a perfect spot for a family picnic and fun to be had in the playground. There's the woods full of wonder stretching all the way down from the gatehouse to the falls and the unforgettable formal gardens. The seasons and the changes they bring all make Powerscourt Estate such a special place.

Deirdre D:  Four seasons each bringing a different prospect of Powerscourt Estate ,waterfall, forest walks and breathtaking views, Past and present and on into the future.

Gwen O'B: Although we've only been on one trip there, we'd go back again and again. Ireland as a whole seems to only shift in lovelinness in different weather. However foul the onslaught of rain, it fails to ever blur the lush landscape beyond beauty. No matter how glaring the sun strikes the Oceanside, it can't conceal the powerful glory of waves cresting and shattering on jagged shorelines. Having only glimpsed powerscourt estate in the glimmering gleam of a fearlessly sunny day that saturated the gardens with their brightest pigments and watched the estate grounds become gilded with the stretching tendrils of a golden sunset, we can only imagine its utter beauty magnified throughout the seasons and wish only to see it turn each varying face of beauty to the world when we're around to see it.

Fiona L: Because you can bring the kids' imaginations to life in powerscourt.

Louisa C: Fantastic memories of family trips to powerscourt waterfall and gardens 

Nina: I loved it so much I blogged about it  my 5 kiddies adored it and made it an adventure never to be forgotten we really want to go back again and especially the four seasons to see the different flowers

Tracy H: It looks so magical it makes me want to tear up. I'd park up a chair and stare at the windows to see if I could see a ghost.

Mari B: because i went when i was little and i think it's time i brought my littlies!

Liz Mc C: Would love  to have a wander around the gardens have never seen them.it would be lovely to get away from the stress of life and relax.

Kerry ML: Could you truly appreciate all its splendour and glory in just one visit???

Sarah P: So much to do in Powerscourt with just the grounds and the gardens not to the mention the restaurant. It can be for families or just a romantic getaway. Would go back numerous of times With or without kids.

Colm K: Beautiful gardens and walkways all year round

Teresa M: It is such a beatuiful place childhood memories

Diane A: The food is worth visiting for weekly never mind once a year. Plus that amazing shop that sells the fresh food. Salivating now

Mark Q: Lovely place to spend some relaxing time

 

Conor S: Since my great grandfather was a gardener there, it is truly wonderful to experience the gardens he worked in and the intriguing history of Powerscourt.

Kevin B: Like any beautiful place,each season brings new possibilities for walkers,photographers and nature lovers.

Ginger M: It's a truly beautiful and magical place. There's so very much to see that you have to visit it more than once to see it all and you have to visit it in more than one season of the year to take in the full expanse of beauty and majesty that it has to offer.

Veronica M: Its so beautiful would love to see it again

Angela M: : Because when I leave the city and spend some time at Powerscourt I feel like I'm in a different world. Love to bring my grandchildren there and have lot of fun together.

Ashley K: Food for my soul. I first visited when I was a small girl, life has changed, loves have been lost, but now Powerscourt is part of my history, great memories that I love to relive every time I visit.

Sandra W: It`s a haven of tranquility.

Sue B: Powerscourt Gardens is the most magnificent place to visit.You just cant see everything in one visit. As the seasons change the gardens change too. The beautiful thing about the gardens is the familiarity of the gardens, they welcome you each time like an old friend but as you're welcomed in its like you're finding things out about that friend you never knew. Lovely secrets at every turn. Its the one place you can go that you can loose yourself in time. You can visit every garden all at once or just sit back in your amazing surroundings and just watch the world go by. It truly is the closest place to Heaven. It lifts the heart, soothes the soul and energises the body.

Christine MS: Once twice three times a visit....Why and stop there.....It's exquisite !

Arthur R: Yea, so much to see; the lake the gardens and trees, the exquisite Japanese garden, the waterfall the spring freshness the autumn colours and the summer blue skies (even in Wiklow!!)... brilliant!!

Tamasine P: Because you always find something new!

Thanks everyone!

The Pepperpot Tower is one of the most whimsical and unusual features that you will find in Powerscourt Gardens! Be sure to visit the tower and climb to the top where you can survey the gardens from on high. The Pepperport Tower is located in Tower Valley in the Wicklow gardens, in one of the quieter and wooded areas of the estate.

The Site for the Pepper Pot Tower

The stones from the tower were originally part of a church, located on the grounds of Powerscourt. When Lord Powerscourt commissioned  a new church for the Enniskerry Community within the town iself, the old one on the estate was torn down. When mulling over what to do with the stones, Lord Powerscourt though of his favourite Pepper Pot, a inch pot from his dining table! He decided to create a tower modelled on it and add a new feature to Powerscourt Gardens. The tower was built in 1911, to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales to Powerscourt.

Construction of the Tower

To give the tower an authentic and old fashioned look, it was partly constructed using stones from the old church on the grounds of Powerscourt, and decorated with cannons, including some from historic events such as the Spanish Armada and the Battle of the Boyne. From the top of the tower, views of the house and gardens can be enjoyed.

Construction of the Tower

The 8th Viscount was a keen supporter of the Scout and Guide youth organisations and encouraged their annual camps which he surveyed from the tower. The tradition of scouting at Powerscourt continues today with scout troops camping by the River Dargle which flows through the Estate.

Children by one of the cannons for the tower, just after its construction 

The path descending from the Pepper Pot Tower is known as The Viscount’s Walk, and passes through what was once known as The American Garden. This contains many fine specimens of North American conifers planted from seed, some of which are remarkable for their rarity and size in Ireland.

The Pepper Pot Tower Today

The next time you are in Powerscourt Gardens in Wicklow, be sure to visit the Pepperpot Tower and admire this wonderful curiosity for yourself!

A very Happy New Year from me and all the gardeners! This week has started off very mild so it's perfect weather for getting outdoors and moving forward with our projects for Powerscourt Gardens this January. We are delighted with the progress we are making on renovating our Victorian greenhouses.

The greenhouse before renovation

These beautiful structures have aged over time and were starting to show signs of wear and tear. They needed glass and old timbers replacing to bring them back to their former glory. We have just completed the first renovation of one of the greenhouses and are delighted with the results!

Before and After Pictures of the Greenhouses

The second greenhouse will be completed shortly. I am sure you agree that they look fantastic and I am particularly looking forward to seeing them surrounded by the roses in full bloom this summer. We hope to use the greenhouses to store tropical plants and unusual plants which will be of interest to our visitors.

The greenhouse after renovation

The gardening team are busy rejunvinating the herbaceous boder this month, completing work which began last October. We are re-planting the entire border and replacing 70% of the plants with new and interesting specimens. This is the first major overhaul of the planting along the border in 20 years and we are carrying it out to refresh the soil and help the plants to thrive better. The herbaceous border can be seen at its very best in June and July, although there it plenty of colours at other times of the year, especially in spring when the daffodils arrive. There will be some striking pink and purple colour themes along the border near the pond area with plants including Nepeta Walker’s Low (which was a very popular plant last year), underplanted with Ann Thomson geraniums. We are all looking forward to seeing these plants in bloom later this year.

Image Credit

Due to the work going on along the border, we have had the opportunity to dig out the space and plant even more tulips and daffoils! We have planted an extra 2,000 tulips and daffs along the border this year. Come April, you will be able to enjoy over 12,000 tulips in the gardens and thousands of daffodils as well. 

The winter bedding in the gardens looks very well and included red and yellow Polyanthus while the Bellus is flowering in red and white. Our Camelias are in full bud and will produce a really nice display within the next 2 weeks. Be sure to pop by the walled garden and see our display!

Lastly, while witner is not a traditional time of year for colour, is it a great time to enjoy the statuary in Powerscourt Gardens in all its glory. The starkness of the statues against the greenery of the gardens really makes them stand out, particularly on a bright winter's day. I really recommend you to experience Powerscourt throughout the seasons as there is always something new to see. I spot something new every day I am at work here! 

Finally, i will leave you with a picture of our visit to Aras an uachtarain a few months ago. We welcomed President Higgins and his wife Sabina to Powerscourt Gardens last summer and were delighted to receive a return invitation to meet with the Head Gardener and his team there and tour of the gardens. We gave the President’s Head Gardener a Japanese Red Cedar tree that we grew ourselves from one that the Prince of Wales planted in the gardens in 1911.

Until next month!

Michael Byrne, Head Gardener at Powerscourt Gardens

Powerscourt Estate is celebrating very strong visitor numbers in 2014 as 380,000 guests visited Powerscourt Gardens and Waterfall over the past 12 months. This represents a +10% increase on 2013 visitor numbers and confirms Powerscourt Estate’s place as the most visited paid tourist attraction in County Wicklow. 233,000 people visited Powerscourt Gardens in 2014, up +11% over the previous year, while visitors to Powerscourt Waterfall were up by +8% at 147,000.

Some high-profile visitors to the estate in 2014 included the President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina, Chinese political leader Mr. Liu Yunshan, actors Timothy Dalton, Josh Hartnett, Colin Farrell, Gabriel Byrne and Travis Flimmel (known for his lead role as Ragnar Lothbrok in Vikings). Popular TV series filmed on the estate in 2014 included gothic horror ‘Penny Dreadful’ and the historical drama ‘Vikings.’

Visitors from the United Kingdom to Powerscourt Gardens were up by +56% while USA visitors were up +50%. Visitors from China to Powerscourt grew by 25%, making them the third-most important market in terms of visitors to the gardens.

Celebrating the high number of visitors achieved, Sarah Slazenger, Managing Director of Powerscourt Estate commented: "2014 confirmed that our stunning Powerscourt House and Gardens is a must-see attraction in Ireland.  Now number 3 in the world's top ten gardens, as voted by National Geographic and awarded a certificate of excellence by Tripadvisor, it justifies our continued programme of investment in providing a better and better experience for our visitors.”

From the 200 year old beech trees along the avenue at Powerscourt, to the Monkey Puzzle trees that were among the first of their kind to be planted in Ireland, the trees at Powerscourt are special. Learn more about conifers at Powerscourt in our article and drop by the gardens soon to see them in person!

Conifers

Conifers have narrow leaves, which can be needle-like or scaly. Their seeds usually develop inside protective woody cones and most trees are evergreen.

Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)

Native to western North America, Sitka spruce was introduced into Ireland in the 1830’s. Fast growing and well suited for our climate, today it is our most versatile and commonly planted forest tree. The wood from Sitka spruce is known as ‘white deal’ and is widely used as a building and fencing material.

Tree trivia

The first successful powered airplane, the Wright brothers’ Flyer, was built using Sitka spruce.

Larch (Larix decidua)

Larch is the only deciduous conifer in Ireland, and was brought here about 350 years ago. Its soft, bright green needles turn an attractive yellow before they fall in the late autumn, leaving the tree bare for winter.

Tree trivia

The rot-resistant, reddish-brown heartwood of larch is flexible, durable and attractive, making it a popular choice for yacht building.  

Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)

This tall native conifer was known as one of the‘nobles of the wood’ in medieval Irish culture, and was highly prized for its resin. To this day it is still valued for its many commercial applications. The pale red wood, known as ‘red deal’, is light and strong and ideal for making doors, floors, decking and paper.

Tree trivia

The needles can be boiled in water to produce an aromatic tea which is helpful in the treatment of bronchial conditions.