[Day] 9 [Date] Fri, May 24 [Description] 
IRISH NATIONAL STUD, JUNE BLAKE GARDEN & CORKE LODGE This morning drive to Kildare which is in the heart of Ireland's horse country. A visit to the Irish National Stud will show you the history and current trends of horse-breeding in Ireland. See some of the magnificent horses and learn about horse-breeding. Then take a walk around the Japanese Gardens which were established in 1908 and represent the "Life of Man" from cradle to grave in the traditional Japanese style of gardening. Also see the charming St. Fiachra’s Garden with water features and beehive huts. Then drive a short distance to Wicklow and visit the garden of June Blake, a passionate plantswoman who runs a remarkable garden and rare plants nursery from her home, an early Victorian, steward’s cottage. The gardens extend over approximately three acres and contain an eclectic collection of plants from around the world. Continue to Shankill and visit the Corke Lodge which is situated on the lands owned by Hannagh Tilson Magan and commissioned by her or by her son William Henry Magan between 1815 and 1820. The most striking feature of the house is the bold architectural treatment of the classical façade. The gardens are an intrinsic part of the presentation of Corke Lodge. Planted as a pleasure ground soon after 1815, it contains fine specimens of Evergreen Oaks, American Cedars and Sequoias as well as a magnificent Cork tree. Return to your hotel in Dublin to relax before dinner with the group. This evening join your fellow travellers for a fun filled evening of Irish music, good food and great entertainment at the Merry Ploughboys Pub. A great way to finish a memorable holiday in Ireland. OVERNIGHT: BURLINGTON HOTEL, DUBLIN