Garden Show Ireland attracts over 20,000 visitors to Antrim Castle Gardens

Diarmuid Gavin opens his Clockwork Garden at Garden Show Ireland

Garden Show Ireland made a triumphant return to Antrim Castle Gardens, welcoming over 20,000 visitors across the three-day event.

Established in 2004 the event has continued to grow, becoming a celebrated highlight of the Northern Ireland events calendar. 

A festival of flowers, food and fun, the show featured a range of specialist talks and demonstrations, as well as showcasing the very best in local produce and live music. 

The Show also provided visitors with a preview of Show Ambassador Diarmuid Gavin’s Clockwork Garden, commissioned as part of the forthcoming Platinum Jubilee celebrations. 

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Billy Webb MBE JP, commented:

‘It was an absolute delight to welcome Garden Show Ireland back to Antrim Castle Gardens and my pleasure to welcome so many visitors to this truly unique setting. After a very difficult few years, it was wonderful to see so many families enjoying themselves and soaking up what was an incredible atmosphere.

‘I’d like to thank everyone who made the show possible, from the event organisation team to the exhibitors, to the schools and businesses who participated in the various garden challenges and competitions, as well as the various gardeners who delivered a range of fascinating talks.

‘The planning has already started for next year, so I look forward to another fantastic turnout in 2023!’

Ursula Fay, Director of Community Planning also commented:

‘Garden Show Ireland was one of the first events to feature in our post covid recovery plan and it’s success generates immense positivity for the future. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is committed to creating and delivering events that not only provide an experience for a variety of audiences but showcase what the Borough has to offer.

‘The installation of Diarmuid Gavin’s stunning Clockwork Garden was very well received and is the perfect prelude to the forthcoming Platinum Jubilee celebrations.’