“Anyone who has recently visited the Annesley Garden and Arboretum will be in no doubt that the Gardens and the important collection is in serious decline. The gardens where purchased by government some years ago and are currently under the stewardship of DARD NI’s Forest Service.

The walled Annesley garden, dating from 1740, provides a central focal point for the National Arboretum at Castlewellan. This magnificent collection of trees and shrubs, set in beautiful surroundings, also incorporates fountains, ponds, ornamental greenhouses and broad sweeping vistas.

The collection ranks among the top three arboreta in the British Isles and the finest in Ireland. It is also highly significant among European collections!

It includes:-18 oldest existing specimens in the British Isles, 34 ‘champion’ trees of the British Isles and 42 ‘champion’ trees of Ireland. WE NEED TO RAISE AWARENESS of this jewel and influence decision makers to such an extent that we reverse the decline! “

Northern Ireland Heritage Gardens Committee 2012

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