IGPS Leinster organised an outing to Áras an Uachtaráin on the 9th of September. Though attendance was limited to 40 there were members from all regions present and we had a very pleasant day.
The visit was made special by the head gardener who gave us a very informative guided tour and entertained us with stories and recollections from his years working in the gardens. One could not but be impressed by the lines of trees, mainly Irish oaks, planted by visiting dignitaries over the last century and a half – each fronted a commemorative plaque. Though the plaques were of great interest, with names and dates back to the mid 19th century, it was the fact that many of the trees were of such a great age which was so impressive.
The walled garden was especially colourful with massed plantings of dahlias within box parterres and many of these dahlias were of Irish origin. The Paxton glasshouse was especially impressive and it was a wonderful experience to see it restored so perfectly and also to see it back in everyday use.
Many thanks to the Leinster Committee for their work in organising this event and I can see a demand for it to be repeated.
Text and photos from Paddy Tobin
