Mount Stewart
Free RHS Member days
10am–5pm (closes at 4pm, 3 November–16 March), daily, 1 January–31 December (25 and 26 December excluded)
About the garden
Mount Stewart is an exceptional example of an Irish demesne, intended to be both beautiful and productive, with woodland, orchards and farmland providing for the needs of the household. The garden is the creation of Edith, Lady Londonderry in the early 20th century, building on a pre-existing 18th- and 19th-century historic landscape.
Acquired by the Stewart family in 1744, the estate retains much of its original character. The fine buildings of the Stable Block, farmyards with dovecote and the walled garden are architectural gems in their own right. Previously inaccessible to visitors, the wider demense now invites to explore a rich landscape of farmland and woodland walks, with monuments and buildings scattered throughout.
At the heart of the demesne lies the farmyard complex, alongside which sits the original walled garden – the former engine room of the estate. An unrivalled plant collection is preserved and expanded through the estate’s nursery and propagation operation.
Facilities
- Children’s play area
- Dogs welcome
- Parking
- Plant sales
- Refreshments
- Toilets
Key features
- Sub-tropical garden
- Arboretum
- Children’s garden (not playground)
- Mediterranean/Italian garden
- National Plant Collections
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.