Have you booked your summer holiday this year? If not, Waterford is a great choice for all types of travellers. With lots of family-friendly activities, romantic walks and lots of drinking and dining options for groups, Waterford is one of the most vibrant cities in Ireland. The scenery here is unmatched and we have some fantastic heritage sights to visit to learn more about what shaped the city we love. Mount Congreve is one of the most beautiful spots in Waterford to visit this summer and a must-see for your Waterford bucket list. Enjoy Viking Hotel Waterford’s new Experience Waterford package which includes admission to the wonderful Mount Congreve House & Gardens and more.
Mount Congreve House
Slightly overshadowed by the magnificent surroundings, Mount Congreve House is the entry to one of the greatest gardens in the world. Built for Reverend John Congreve in the 1760s by the local architect John Roberts, Mount Congreve House was kept in the Congreve family until Ambrose Congreve died in 2011. By then, 6 generations of Congreves had lived in the home constantly. It was then regenerated and repurposed as a welcoming place for visitors. The visitor experience team will welcome you to the Congreve home and guide you into the interpretive spaces. Guests who wish to visit the gardens can now do so as the family once did, entering through Mount Congreve House.
Mount Congreve Gardens
The original gardens at Mount Congreve were simple terraced gardens surrounded by woodland mostly comprised of sweet chestnut trees on the slopes to the river. The passion and dedication of Ambrose Congreve have given us the greatest gift of one of ‘The Great Gardens of the World’. In 1955, he began to make large clearings in the woodlands to create conditions where his new plants would thrive. With the arrival of Mr Herman Dool in the early sixties, the two men began the process that would lead to Mount Congreve’s notoriety and beauty. Until his last days, Ambrose was a part of the development of the gardens, giving orders and advice about his beloved plants and trees. The Gardens are now held in Trust for the State.
Treasures in Mount Congreve Gardens
The garden has many surprises and some lovely spots to visit. There is a Chinese Pagoda in the centre of an old quarry that is spectacular when viewed from above. The stone from the quarry has been used throughout the garden to build walls and steps. You can visit the resting place of Ambrose and Marjorie Congreve, a classical temple surrounded by Rhododendron with amazing views of the River Suir and the surrounding countryside. There is a rock waterfall cascading over a natural rock formation into three small pools lined with native plants. You can also visit the Georgian Glasshouse edged with herbaceous plants. The glasshouse was built in the 1840s and is currently under renovation.
Stables Café
Make a day of it and enjoy a meal in the wonderful Stables Café. Sit back & relax in the warm country-style surroundings while you peruse the extensive menu. Where possible, the chef uses fruits, vegetables, and herbs from the gardens; it doesn’t get any more local than their backyard! They have a delicious afternoon tea which you can take in the beautifully restored Tack Room surrounded by gardens, trees, birds and wildlife. Their menus are seasonal and a great way to refuel for a long walk around the gardens. The Secret Garden shop offers a unique range of gift ideas inspired by the beauty of nature so you can take a little piece for one of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland home with you.
Experience Waterford Package
Viking Hotel has a brand-new Experience Waterford package, ideal for lovers of culture, history and excellent food/ Enjoy a two-night stay in Viking Hotel Waterford, the perfect base, just outside the hustle and bustle of the city to explore. Treat yourself to a full Irish breakfast on both mornings or opt for a lighter continental option. Choose from a selection of main courses in The Wooden Pestle, our on-site restaurant, on the evening of your choice. The package also includes an admission ticket, per person to Mount Congreve Gardens. You can also enjoy free parking, secure bike storage and complimentary Wi-Fi when you stay in Viking Hotel Waterford.
Our special offers are exclusively available when you book directly on our website. We look forward to welcoming you.
