Irish Seed Savers

Irish Seed Savers is a conservation charity at Capparoe, near Scarriff in County Clare, dedicated to protecting Ireland’s traditional, open-pollinated seed varieties and heritage fruit trees. Founded in 1991 by Anita Hayes, the organisation grew from concern that many of the country’s native crop varieties and old apple trees were disappearing. Today it maintains a living seed bank and one of the most important collections of Irish heritage apple varieties on the island.

Set across roughly 20 acres in the hills of East Clare, the site brings that conservation work to life for visitors. You can wander among heritage orchards that hold the Irish Heritage Apple Tree Collection, explore seed gardens and polytunnels planted with traditional vegetables and flowers, and follow woodland trails. It is an unhurried, family-friendly place to spend time outdoors, and visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and settle beneath the apple trees or take in the surrounding countryside.

On-site facilities include a garden gift shop selling organic open-pollinated vegetable and flower seed, heritage apple trees, and books on growing, seed saving and the environment, along with a café serving light lunches, tea and coffee. Guided and self-guided tours are available, and the organisation also runs workshops and courses in skills such as seed saving and grafting. Opening days and hours vary through the year, so it is worth checking ahead before you visit.