National Botanic Gardens - Free All Year

The National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin are one of Dublin’s greatest free attractions. Founded in 1795, the gardens cover 19.5 hectares and house over 15,000 plant species from around the world. Free entry, every day.

What to Expect

Stunning Victorian glasshouses (the Curvilinear Range and Great Palm House are architectural masterpieces), a rose garden, an alpine garden, a rock garden, herbaceous borders, and mature tree collections. The gardens change dramatically with the seasons - spring bulbs, summer roses, autumn colour, winter bark and berries.

There’s a sensory garden, a food garden showing how plants feed us, and regular guided tours and workshops. The cafe is excellent. It’s genuinely one of the best free days out in Dublin.

Good to Know

• Free entry, 365 days a year
• Summer hours: 10am to 6pm (last admission 5:15pm)
• Winter hours: 10am to 4:30pm
• Free guided tours on Sundays (check schedule)
• The glasshouses are incredible on rainy days
• Cafe on site with good food
• No dogs allowed
• Glasnevin Cemetery (another fascinating free attraction) is right next door

Getting There

Glasnevin is on Dublin’s northside. Dublin Bus 4, 9, 83 to Botanic Road entrance. 25 minutes by bus from city centre. Free parking on Botanic Road (limited).