Mount Usher Gardens in the village of Ashford, County Wicklow is open to the public and is well worth a visit at any time. Because there is such awide range of trees and shrubs you are likely to see a different view every time you visit.
Mount Usher also has some excellent tearooms and a quality restaurant with an extensive lunch menu.
After you have left Mount Usher you may decide to take a walk in the nearby Devil’s Glen. The Devil’s Glen Wood is managed by the Irish state forestry company and is fully accessible to the public with car parking, picnic facilities and a variety of forest walks and is open every day from 9am – 9pm. It has free parking and picnic facilities. The Devil’s Glen consists of both native woodlands and introduced species. In recent years broadleaf planting in the Glen has increased and today, almost 15% of the Glen is planted with broadleaves.
Sculpture in Woodland is situated in the Devil’s Glen and features a fascinating collection of contemporary sculpture by Irish and sculptors. The project was started in 1994 with the aim of creating a greater awareness of wood as an artistic medium. Artists are commissioned on an annual basis and to date thirteen sculptures, by both Irish and international artists, have been permanently sited in the Devil’s Glen.
Visitors to Mount Usher and The Devil’s Glen can stay at the charming Carriglen, a Wicklow Bed and Breakfast ideally located in the village of Ashford. Carriglen is just a few minutes walk from Mount Usher and the local pubs, restaurants and shops and is located in a quiet peaceful setting. Guests are provided with large comfortable rooms and a hearty home-cooked breakfast.