A Fantastic First — Johnstown Castle’s Inaugural Garden Fair Blooms with Success

A celebration of plants, people, and place at the heart of Johnstown Castle.

On Sunday, 13th July 2025, Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens hosted its very first Garden Fair, and what a wonderful day it was!

Blessed with glorious weather, the estate was alive with colour, excitement, and the buzz of plant lovers and families alike. The event brought together some of Ireland’s finest plant nurseries, inspiring garden talks by expert speakers, and a delicious selection of food, making it far more than just a plant sale.

Visitors explored a vibrant array of stalls from top nurseries such as visitors enjoyed exploring a vibrant range of stalls from leading nurseries, including: Camolin Potting Shed, Coldblow Nursery, Individual Plant Nursery, Kildalton College Nursery, Kilmurry Nursery, Leaf and Petal, Railstown Plants, Rare Plants Ireland, Shady Plants Nursery, Síle Farm & Nursery, Three Gates Nursery and Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens. Garden suppliers, craft makers, and informative stands from groups like the Wexford Flower and Garden Club added to the variety.

One of the true highlights of the day were the three talks by renowned horticulturists. Geoff Stebbings shared insights from his extensive career at Kew Gardens and the RHS. Michael White reflected on his time as Curator at Mount Congreve Gardens. Finally, Mary Reynolds, award winning designer and environmental activist, engaged the audience with her talk “Restoring the Earth Patch by Patch.”

And let’s not forget the food! Local favourite’s Eoghan’s Eats & Mamma Del’s served up international bites made with local ingredients, while our new coffee dock The Coffee Pot kept visitors refreshed with coffee and sweet treats.

A huge thanks to the fantastic team of staff and volunteers whose energy and dedication made this day such a success.

With on-site parking, peaceful picnic spots, lake walks, a visit to the Irish Agricultural Museum, and views of the castle, the Garden Fair was the perfect way to spend a summer’s day in Wexford.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming you back next year, this is just the beginning!

Johnstown Castle Estate offers a wealth of experiences beyond the museum. Scenic lake walks, walled gardens, and woodland trails provide a peaceful retreat. Families can enjoy the children’s playground and newly accessible pathways around the lower lake. Dogs are welcome throughout the estate, making it a great destination for all visitors.

The estate’s café seats 160 guests and serves a delicious selection of food. Local producers feature across the menus, creating a warm and inviting dining experience. A spacious retail area showcases locally sourced products, allowing visitors to take home a piece of this unique heritage.

Located just 15 minutes from Rosslare Harbour, Johnstown Castle Estate, Museum & Gardens offers ample parking and a welcome for individuals and groups. A visit of at least three hours is recommended to fully experience everything the site has to offer.

Membership is a wonderful way to support Irish heritage conservation, and make the most of Ireland’s wonderful houses and gardens. It includes access to the Irish Agricultural Museum and the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park. Find out more.