Glasnevin brings two very different themes into focus: the plant diversity of the National Botanic Gardens and the history, biographies and graves of Glasnevin Cemetery. For planning, the first question is whether you are more interested in plants and architecture or in Irish history. A gate on the Prospect Square side of the cemetery connects it to the gardens. As this access arrangement may change, it is best to check before your visit.
Plant diversity and architecture in the gardens
The National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin are home to more than 16,000 plant species and cultivars from habitats around the world. The collection also includes more than 300 endangered plant species; six of these are already extinct in the wild. This offers a perspective on both diversity and the endangerment of species: the collection connects the global diversity of plants with the issue of species loss.
The Great Palm House received an award for excellence in architectural conservation. This adds a distinct architectural focus to the plants. If you are interested in both botany and the conservation of architecture, the building offers an additional point of interest for your visit.
The gardens are open daily except Christmas Day and admission is free. It is worth checking the latest visitor information when planning your visit.
Explore the history of Glasnevin Cemetery
Glasnevin Cemetery offers a different way to engage with history. The Irish History Tour covers the 1916 Easter Rising, the War of Independence and the Civil War. Tour availability and scheduling may change, so check the dates before planning your visit around it.
In the visitor centre, the indoor exhibition “Extra-ordinary Lives” tells the stories of more than 20 people whose final resting place is there. The interactive, award-winning exhibition “The City of the Dead” is also located in the visitor centre. Exhibition availability may change, so check before your visit.
With an audio guide and map, you can explore selected notable graves independently and at your own pace. This means that, alongside the tour and exhibitions, you can also choose to explore the cemetery on your own.
Which focus suits your visit?
The offerings differ both in subject and in how you can engage with them. The Irish History Tour covers several historical events; “Extra-ordinary Lives” focuses on the stories of individuals. The audio guide and map, by contrast, allow you to explore selected graves independently. “The City of the Dead” is another option if you would like to visit an interactive exhibition. You can decide whether you would rather learn about historical events, personal life stories or individual burial sites.
At the National Botanic Gardens, plant diversity and endangered species sit alongside the Great Palm House as a focus for architectural conservation. At the cemetery, you can choose between a tour, exhibitions and independent exploration. The gate on the Prospect Square side connects the two sites; check the access arrangement in advance if you would like to include both in your plans.
Discover more destinations: Tallaght, Foxrock, Ranelagh, Loughlinstown, Rathgar, Rathmines, Carmanhall, Oldtown.
For the main travel overview: Dublin.
