It’s a case of Glenarm Castle will come alive with colour as the 8th annual Glenarm Castle Tulip Festival returns this bank holiday weekend, Saturday 3rd – Monday 5th May.
It’s not only a treat for tulip lovers but a treat for anyone who enjoys a colourful and spectacular display set within a beautiful, historic walled garden. The Festival, sponsored by Bloms Blubs, is a firm fixture in the horticulture calendar and is widely recognised as Ireland’s premier Tulip Festival.
Over the past 8 years and thousands of blubs later, the Glenarm Castle gardening team, brothers James and Billy Wharry, have put in a lot of hard work and commitment to ensure that the Festival grows in strength and vibrancy. The continued success of the Tulip Festival is testament to their artistic flair and passion for gardening.
The 8th annual Glenarm Castle Tulip Festival also officially opens the Walled Garden and tea room season. Filled with exciting flowers and specimen plants the walled garden is one of the oldest in Ireland. Delicious homemade cream teas, light lunches and a gift shop are available in the charming old mushroom house.
Head Gardener at Glenarm Castle, James Wharry said:
“I have worked at Glenarm Castle for many years. During this time I have had the privilege to service the beautiful gardens as head gardener along with my brother Billy. In my opinion, Glenarm is one of the most beautiful places in the world and it’s never more beautiful than during the Tulip Festival. Billy and I are lucky to work with the world renowned Bloms Bulbs to pick out the best blubs and to give them a specific location in the walled garden. Location is key as the Tulip colours need to blend and work together if we are to create an effective display. It is such a delight to see visitors relax and enjoy our work during the Festival – it makes all the hard work so worthwhile.”
The Festival will include local crafts, great music, good food and a representative from Bloms Blubs will be available to discuss bulb requirements for the year. Reg Maxwell, former head gardener of Belfast’s Botanic Gardens will be on hand to offer his expert advice. A spectacular train ride on the newly commissioned Glenarm Castle Express will take visitors to the Castle on Bank Holiday Monday where there will be guided tours of the home of the Earls of Antrim by the Castle butler and house staff. Ticket prices are adults £5, youth (12-16 years) £2.50 and children under 12 FREE. Guided tours of the Castle on the Monday are priced at £6. For further information including opening times visit www.glenarmcastle.com