Stunning JFK Arboretum proving popular
The reopening of the John F Kennedy Memorial Park and Arboretum on Monday, May 18, has seen hundreds of people visit the popular venue over the course of subsequent days to take in the magnificent panorama of colour and nature during these flowering months.
JFK Memorial Park and Arboretum head guide Mary O’Neill Moloney said: ‘ The reopening of the arboretum has worked out really well. Visitors do seem to be complying to the 5km radius rule. As part of our Phase 1 reopening, we have put in place a one-way system to ensure visitor and staff safety.’
Staff from Tintern Abbey and other local tourist attractions have been drafted in to ensure social distancing among visitors and that people are using the one way route, which sees visitors turn left at the visitor centre.
Ms O’Neill Moloney said the staff have been fantastic and are advising and helping visitors, and most importantly ensuring that everyone is staying safe. ‘ The plant collection just looks astonishing at the moment, with plenty of Rhododendrons still in bloom and there is an amazing amount of plants in bloom now. We have such a beautiful place here and we know it means so much to so many. If everything keeps going as well as it is at present, hopefully more people from further afield will be able to get to visit. We will continue to comply with government guidelines.’
Slieve Coillte viewing area will remain closed until possibly Phase 2 of Ireland’s reopening, on June 8.