Delta Sensory Gardens

Delta Sensory Gardens sits on the outskirts of Carlow Town in County Carlow, covering around 2.5 acres (one hectare). Made up of a series of interconnecting themed gardens, the site is designed around the five senses of touch, sight, sound, smell and taste, offering a calm and welcoming place to walk at any time of year.

The gardens are run by the Delta Centre, which supports adults with intellectual disabilities, and they provide both a therapeutic space and a source of funding for that work. Visitors will find a mix of planted areas and features to explore, including a sculpture garden, a willow garden and a range of water features. Among the best known is the kugel, a one-tonne sphere of polished pink marble that turns on a thin cushion of water.

There is plenty to enjoy across the seasons, from spring bulbs to summer colour and autumn foliage. On-site facilities include Café Thyme and a garden centre stocking plants, shrubs and garden accessories. The gardens are wheelchair accessible and suit individuals, families, groups and organised tours alike.