THE GLASSHOUSES AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS
THE GLASSHOUSES AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS IN GLASNEVIN [7 MARCH 2026]
The National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, Dublin, are home to some of the most significant Victorian glasshouses in the world. These iron-and-glass masterpieces, largely the work of the Dublin ironmaster Richard Turner, provide a sanctuary for over 15,000 plant species.
In March, as the gardens transition from winter to spring, the glasshouses offer a warm, fragrant escape where exotic blooms often precede the outdoor displays.
The Historic Glasshouses
The Curvilinear Range (1843–1869): Designed by Richard Turner, this is arguably the most famous structure in the gardens. Its elegant, sweeping curves were a feat of engineering for the time.
In the East Wing: You will find plants from the Southern Hemisphere, including specimens from Australia and South Africa. In March, keep an eye out for the Vireya Rhododendrons (tropical rhododendrons) which often provide splashes of vibrant colour.
In the West Wing: This section focuses on a variety of tender plants. The aromatic essential oils from the foliage here are particularly noticeable as the days begin to warm.
The Great Palm House (1884): This soaring structure is the heart of the tropical collection. It houses giant bamboos, palms, and ancient cycads. It remains a humid tropical rainforest environment year-round, making it a favourite for visitors on brisk March days.
The Orchid House: Glasnevin has a world-class orchid collection. While different species bloom throughout the year, March often sees the beginning of the spring surge. The gardens frequently host an Orchid Fair or specific displays during this season.
What to See in March
While the outdoor "Spring Borders" are beginning to show crocuses and early daffodils, the glasshouses offer more sheltered highlights:
Early Rhododendrons: In the Curvilinear Range, the collection of Vireyas is a highlight, often blooming in shades of brilliant orange, pink, and yellow.
Aromatic Flora: The "Southern Hemisphere" wing is particularly fragrant this time of year as plants like the Acacias (wattles) begin their spring display.
The Succulent and Cactus Collections: Located in the smaller glasshouses, these offer a stark, sculptural contrast to the lush greenery of the Palm House.
The Alpine House: Though small, this house is a gem in March. It features delicate mountain plants and early-flowering bulbs like Cyclamen and Fritillaria that are too small or tender to thrive in the open Irish wind.
Visitor Notes
March 2026 also features several themed events, including Tree Week tours and lectures on the folklore of Irish plants. The gardens are free to enter, though there is a small fee for car parking.
The National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, Dublin, are home to some of the most significant Victorian glasshouses in the world. These iron-and-glass masterpieces, largely the work of the Dublin ironmaster Richard Turner, provide a sanctuary for over 15,000 plant species.
In March, as the gardens transition from winter to spring, the glasshouses offer a warm, fragrant escape where exotic blooms often precede the outdoor displays.
The Historic Glasshouses
The Curvilinear Range (1843–1869): Designed by Richard Turner, this is arguably the most famous structure in the gardens. Its elegant, sweeping curves were a feat of engineering for the time.
In the East Wing: You will find plants from the Southern Hemisphere, including specimens from Australia and South Africa. In March, keep an eye out for the Vireya Rhododendrons (tropical rhododendrons) which often provide splashes of vibrant colour.
In the West Wing: This section focuses on a variety of tender plants. The aromatic essential oils from the foliage here are particularly noticeable as the days begin to warm.
The Great Palm House (1884): This soaring structure is the heart of the tropical collection. It houses giant bamboos, palms, and ancient cycads. It remains a humid tropical rainforest environment year-round, making it a favourite for visitors on brisk March days.
The Orchid House: Glasnevin has a world-class orchid collection. While different species bloom throughout the year, March often sees the beginning of the spring surge. The gardens frequently host an Orchid Fair or specific displays during this season.
What to See in March
While the outdoor "Spring Borders" are beginning to show crocuses and early daffodils, the glasshouses offer more sheltered highlights:
Early Rhododendrons: In the Curvilinear Range, the collection of Vireyas is a highlight, often blooming in shades of brilliant orange, pink, and yellow.
Aromatic Flora: The "Southern Hemisphere" wing is particularly fragrant this time of year as plants like the Acacias (wattles) begin their spring display.
The Succulent and Cactus Collections: Located in the smaller glasshouses, these offer a stark, sculptural contrast to the lush greenery of the Palm House.
The Alpine House: Though small, this house is a gem in March. It features delicate mountain plants and early-flowering bulbs like Cyclamen and Fritillaria that are too small or tender to thrive in the open Irish wind.
Visitor Notes
March 2026 also features several themed events, including Tree Week tours and lectures on the folklore of Irish plants. The gardens are free to enter, though there is a small fee for car parking.
GLASSHOUSE AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS