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Mount Stewart

RHS Partner Garden

Free access for RHS Members when open

Portaferry Road
Newtownards
BT22 2AD
Northern Ireland

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Free RHS Member days
When open

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

  • Accessible garden
  • Children’s play area
  • Dogs welcome
  • Parking
  • Plant sales
  • Toilets

Key features

  • Wildflower meadow
  • Autumn colour
  • Children’s garden (not playground)
  • Mediterranean/Italian garden

Get involved

The RHS is the UK’s gardening charity, helping people and plants to grow - nurturing a healthier, happier world, one person and one plant at a time.