Grove Gardens and & Open Farm

The gardens at Grove have been open to the public since 1992 and that was the direct result of the passion and skill of Patrick (Pat) Dillon. Pat started clearing a small vegetable patch when I was about eight years old in 1962 roughly 2 sq metres and grew lettuce and radish. From there the garden got bigger and bigger, digging and clearing vast areas of scrub, mainly briars, nettles and an array of weeds. It became an obsession for Pat, working before and after school. In the beginning it was extremely hard work, nothing but a wheelbarrow and spade. However, with dedication and care, the gardens at Grove became well known for the colour, tranquillity and excellence. The lawns were laid out and flower borders created, roses were planted and the vegetable garden extended, so that today there is no finer example of horticultural excellence in Ireland. Groups have visited the gardens from France, England, Germany, Holland, America, New Zealand, and Australia to mention but a few. The Gardens evolve with every passing week and the dedication and skill that has been shown by Pat will ensure that there is no finer example of gardens to visit in Ireland.