Rowallane Garden: A National Trust Gem of Botanical Beauty in County Down
Explore Rowallane Garden’s stunning rhododendrons, historic walled garden, and family-friendly amenities in the heart of County Down.
Rowallane Garden, located near Saintfield in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a 52-acre National Trust property renowned for its spectacular rhododendrons, azaleas, and a historic walled garden. Offering a mix of formal and informal garden spaces, rock gardens, wildflower meadows, and woodland walks, it provides year-round natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a café, plant shop, bookshop, and family-friendly play areas, making it a perfect day trip destination.
A brief summary to National Trust - Rowallane Garden
- Crossgar Rd, Ballynahinch, Saintfield, BT24 7LH, GB
- +442897510131
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit in early to mid-spring to see the rhododendrons and azaleas at their peak bloom.
- Weekday mornings are ideal for a quieter, more tranquil garden experience.
- Take advantage of the free scooter and balance bike hire for children under 14 inches wheel size.
- Enjoy refreshments at the café or bring a picnic to use the outdoor seating and picnic areas.
- Check the National Trust website for special events and guided tours during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Belfast to Rowallane Garden takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes via the A24 and A7 roads. Parking is available on-site free of charge. Note that the garden is located near Saintfield, and the route involves rural roads with moderate traffic.
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Bus
Public bus services run from Belfast to Saintfield, with journey times around 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes. From Saintfield, a taxi or a 20-minute walk on rural roads leads to Rowallane Garden. Bus frequency may be limited on weekends.
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Taxi
Taxis from Saintfield town center to Rowallane Garden take about 10 minutes. This is a convenient option if arriving by bus or train to Saintfield. Taxi fares typically range from £8 to £12.
National Trust - Rowallane Garden location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Rowallane Garden
Historical Roots and Botanical Legacy
Rowallane Garden’s origins trace back to the mid-19th century when Reverend John Moore began shaping the pleasure grounds, planting towering conifers and creating stone cairns that evoke a sense of timelessness. The garden was further developed in the early 20th century by Hugh Armytage Moore, a renowned plantsman who introduced a naturalistic rock garden and expanded the plant collections. Today, Rowallane serves as the headquarters of the National Trust in Northern Ireland, preserving this horticultural heritage.Seasonal Floral Spectacles and Garden Highlights
The garden is celebrated for its extraordinary collection of rhododendrons and azaleas, which bloom spectacularly from December through May, showcasing a vibrant palette from deep reds and purples to creamy yellows. The walled garden features herbaceous plants, bulbs, herbs, and a magnificent magnolia, while the rock garden offers year-round interest with primulas, orchids, and autumn flame tones. Wildflower meadows and woodlands carpeted with snowdrops and bluebells add to the diverse botanical experience.Visitor Experience and Family-Friendly Amenities
Rowallane Garden offers a welcoming environment with a café serving hot and cold refreshments, picnic areas, and a small plant shop selling locally grown seasonal plants. Children can enjoy a natural playground and free hire of scooters or balance bikes, making it an engaging outing for families. The garden also includes a bookshop and a restored historic bandstand, enhancing the cultural ambiance.Natural Environment and Wildlife Conservation
The garden’s design integrates with the surrounding natural landscape, featuring mature woodlands and farmland views. Efforts to encourage wildlife include deliberately left woodpiles for insects and birds, supporting biodiversity. Seasonal changes bring autumnal hues of scarlet and gold, while winter reveals scented shrubs, creating a tranquil and ever-changing environment.Accessibility and Practical Information
Open daily throughout the year from 10am, with extended hours in summer, Rowallane Garden welcomes visitors with partial wheelchair access and facilities including restrooms and parking. Dogs on leads are permitted within the grounds. Admission is moderate, with discounts for National Trust members and children. Guided tours and seasonal events like the 'Summer of Play' add educational and recreational value.Significance and Cultural Heritage
Rowallane Garden stands out as one of Northern Ireland’s finest gardens, combining horticultural excellence with historical significance. Its blend of formal design and naturalistic planting reflects Victorian and Edwardian gardening trends, while its ongoing stewardship by the National Trust ensures its legacy for future generations. It is a peaceful retreat offering inspiration, education, and enjoyment for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Patrick's National Monument
15.8 km
Ireland’s tallest St Patrick statue in Saul, Downpatrick, a monumental symbol of faith, unity, and heritage with panoramic countryside views.
Stormont Estate
16.4 km
Northern Ireland's iconic seat of power set within 224 acres of historic parkland and natural beauty.
Lord Kelvin Statue
16.6 km
Celebrate the legacy of Belfast’s own Lord Kelvin with this striking bronze statue set in the historic Botanic Gardens.
Shaftesbury Square
17.2 km
A historic and bustling junction in Belfast where Victorian heritage meets vibrant modern city life.
Alec the Goose
17.5 km
A bronze tribute to a beloved 1920s goose who walked schoolchildren to school in East Belfast.
Frederick Temple Memorial
17.8 km
A striking bronze tribute to Lord Dufferin, reflecting Belfast’s imperial heritage and the legacy of a renowned British diplomat.
Belfast City Hall Tours
17.8 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
17.8 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
17.8 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
17.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
17.9 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
17.9 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
17.9 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
Beacon of Hope
17.9 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Treasure Trails
17.9 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Hinch Distillery
5.1 km
Discover award-winning Irish whiskey and immersive tours at Hinch Distillery, nestled in the scenic heart of County Down’s countryside.
Giant's Ring
12.9 km
Explore the Giant's Ring, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic henge near Belfast, featuring a central dolmen and vast ceremonial earthworks steeped in ancient mystery.
The Belvoir Oak
13.7 km
Discover the ancient majesty of Northern Ireland’s oldest oak, a serene natural monument nestled in Belfast’s Belvoir Park Forest.
National Trust - Minnowburn
13.7 km
Discover Minnowburn’s peaceful woodlands and riverside trails, a natural sanctuary just outside Belfast with rich wildlife and scenic valley views.
Forestside Shopping Centre
13.9 km
A comprehensive suburban shopping centre in Belfast offering diverse stores, dining, and excellent parking facilities for a convenient retail experience.
Inch Abbey
13.9 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Inch Abbey, Northern Ireland’s earliest Gothic monastery and a serene riverside landmark steeped in history and legend.
Museum of Orange Heritage - Free Admission
14.4 km
Discover the rich history and global heritage of the Orange Institution at Belfast’s Museum of Orange Heritage, located in historic Schomberg House.
Lagan Towpath
15.0 km
An 11-mile riverside trail blending historic canal heritage with tranquil natural beauty between Belfast and Lisburn.
Saul Church
15.1 km
Discover the sacred site where Saint Patrick founded Ireland’s first church, a place of deep history and spiritual reflection near Downpatrick.
St Patrick Centre, Downpatrick
15.2 km
Explore the world’s only permanent exhibition dedicated to Ireland’s patron saint in the historic heart of Downpatrick.
Slieve Croob
15.2 km
Discover Slieve Croob’s ancient cairns, sweeping views, and rich folklore at the heart of Northern Ireland’s Dromara Hills.
Ormeau Park
16.2 km
Belfast’s oldest municipal park blending historic charm with vibrant sports, nature, and cultural events in a sprawling urban green space.
Botanic Gardens
16.4 km
Discover Belfast’s Victorian botanical gem with stunning glasshouses, vibrant gardens, and rich cultural heritage in a serene 28-acre urban oasis.
Ulster Museum
16.5 km
Explore the Ulster Museum, a stunning fusion of art, history, and natural beauty in the heart of Belfast's Botanic Gardens.
Scrabo Tower
16.5 km
A striking 19th-century folly on Scrabo Hill, offering panoramic views over Strangford Lough and the North Down countryside.
Essential places to dine
The Auld House
9.7 km
Discover The Auld House in Moneyreagh – where traditional Irish cuisine meets friendly service in a cozy pub setting.
Del Toro
15.7 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and a welcoming atmosphere at Del Toro in Lisburn – where every bite tells a story.
Hendrix Restaurant| Belfast
16.0 km
Modern fusion dining with Italian-Mexican flair, creative cocktails, and theatrical open kitchen on South Belfast's cultural corridor.
Blank Restaurant
16.3 km
Discover a rare Irish dining experience with creative dishes and exceptional service in Belfast’s charming Malone Road district.
Olivers Restaurant
16.4 km
A warm, modern European dining experience in Belfast’s Ballyhackamore with exceptional food and inviting ambiance.
Deanes at Queens
16.7 km
Experience modern European cuisine with Michelin-recognized quality in Belfast’s vibrant University Quarter, overlooking picturesque College Gardens.
Shu Restaurant Belfast
16.7 km
Experience refined modern French cuisine with Irish influences in Belfast’s stylish Shu Restaurant and lively Juls Bar.
Molly's Yard
16.7 km
Discover modern Irish cuisine in a charming 19th-century stable block with cozy indoor dining and a peaceful courtyard in Belfast’s Queen’s Quarter.
A Peculiar Tea
16.8 km
Where afternoon tea becomes a story-driven escape into imagination and culinary wonder.
Scalini
16.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy ambiance at Scalini, a beloved Italian restaurant on Belfast’s vibrant Botanic Avenue.
Holohan's Pantry
16.9 km
Authentic Irish flavors with a contemporary twist in Belfast’s vibrant University Road dining scene.
Villa Italia
16.9 km
A beloved Belfast institution serving authentic Italian stone-baked pizzas and classic pasta dishes in a warm Georgian setting.
The Hoose Bistro
17.0 km
East Belfast's premier intimate bistro serving contemporary British cuisine with exceptional cocktails and genuine warmth.
Darcy's Belfast
17.1 km
A warm, family-run bistro serving hearty traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients in a cozy Belfast setting.
Causeway Cafe
17.2 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at Causeway Cafe in Belfast—your cozy retreat for delicious meals and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Barn Owl Boutique
1.4 km
Independent boutique blending curated gifts and distinctive clothing in rural Northern Ireland charm.
The Yard Shop - Furniture & Accessories
16.0 km
Discover Belfast’s charming Yard Shop, a treasure trove of antique and rustic furniture and home accessories that bring character to any space.
Rosies Emporium
16.0 km
A colourful gift and homewares shop in Lisburn’s Bow Street Mall, perfect for unique presents, baby items, and stylish accessories.
Emporio
16.3 km
Discover timeless elegance and bespoke designer womenswear at Emporio, Belfast’s trusted boutique for over 30 years.
Deja Vu
16.5 km
Discover Belfast’s premier boutique for exquisite pre-loved designer fashion and exceptional personal service on Lisburn Road.
Olive & Rose Apparels
16.9 km
Explore the latest fashion trends at Olive & Rose Apparels, a stylish boutique in the heart of Belfast, offering unique clothing for every occasion.
Connswater Shopping Centre
16.9 km
Discover Connswater Shopping Centre: Belfast's vibrant retail hub with diverse shops, dining options, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
American Madness
16.9 km
East Belfast’s cult vintage shop for reworked Americana, denim, military surplus, and retro band and Harley-Davidson tees.
Noor Bazaar
17.3 km
Discover handcrafted wonders and local souvenirs at Noor Bazaar, south Belfast's treasure trove on vibrant Sandy Row.
The Union Jack Shop
17.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of Unionist memorabilia at The Union Jack Shop in Belfast, celebrating British culture with a unique selection of gifts.
Fiddlesticks
17.3 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and expert framing at Fiddlesticks, Belfast's gem on Belmont Road for unique souvenirs and preserved memories.
Dandy Lion Shop
17.3 km
Explore the Dandy Lion Shop in Belfast for unique antiques and gifts, perfect for collectors and treasure hunters alike.
Storybox
17.3 km
Discover Storybox, a creative gift shop nestled in Belfast’s historic Portview Trade Centre, where heritage meets artistry and community spirit.
Esik Creations
17.5 km
Explore Esik Creations in Belfast, where local artistry meets unique gifts for every occasion, perfect for tourists seeking authentic souvenirs.
Norn Irish Gift Shop
17.5 km
Locally crafted gifts celebrating Northern Irish creativity and cultural character
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Parador Lodge
15.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Parador Lodge, Belfast's charming pub destination.
Arkle Bar
15.2 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, hearty food, and lively entertainment at Arkle Bar, Downpatrick’s beloved local pub.
Cutters Wharf
15.3 km
A stylish riverside bar and restaurant in Belfast blending modern European cuisine with lively entertainment and scenic river views.
Hatfield House
16.5 km
Historic Irish pub on Belfast’s Ormeau Road blending vintage charm, hearty food, live music, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
The Woodworkers
17.1 km
Belfast's top rotating tap room: craft beers on rotation, timber warmth, board games, and platters in Queen's Quarter's lively heart.
Lavery's
17.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lavery's, Belfast's premier pub and comedy club, where great food, drinks, and entertainment await.
The Points
17.3 km
A warm, old-school Dublin Road pub with regular live music, a glowing log fire and an unpretentious atmosphere for evening sessions.
Filthy McNastys
17.4 km
Filthy McNastys: The Heart of Belfast's Nightlife with Live Music, Great Drinks, and Unforgettable Experiences Awaiting You.
Limelight Lounge
17.4 km
Discover the excitement of live music and vibrant nightlife at Limelight Lounge, Belfast's premier bar for entertainment and good vibes.
Pug Uglys
17.5 km
Belfast's go-to pub for gastropub grub, live gigs, comedy laughs, and sports cheers in a quirky, buzzing venue.
The Perch Rooftop Bar
17.7 km
Discover The Perch Rooftop Bar in Belfast: a vibrant cocktail bar with stunning views, premium drinks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Margot
17.7 km
Discover Margot, a lively cocktail bar in Belfast, renowned for its crafted cocktails, vibrant atmosphere, and live music performances.
The Broken shaker Belfast
17.8 km
A vibrant Caribbean-inspired cocktail bar in Belfast’s city center, known for creative drinks and lively late-night energy.
The Garrick
17.8 km
Authentic Victorian charm meets lively traditional music and hearty food in Belfast’s beloved Garrick Bar.
Bittles Bar
17.9 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Scratch Nightclub
17.0 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Alibi
17.1 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Cabaret Supper Club
17.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
17.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Voodoo
18.0 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Saturday Night Nightclub
18.2 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
Ollie's Belfast
18.2 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Club Honey
18.2 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Club Lux
18.3 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Craics Ninety
18.3 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Kremlin
18.6 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
18.6 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
The Art Department
18.6 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Anthology Ni
18.6 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
Boombox Belfast
18.6 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
