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Robinson Garden at Earlscliffe, Baily, Howth, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Where subtropical plants flourish at 53.3° north latitude
The Robinson Garden at Earlscliffe, on Howth’s south-facing slope, thrives with bananas, palms, and exotic plants year-round thanks to its unique microclimate—protected by the Hill of Howth and warmed by the Gulf Stream—making it one of the most diverse gardens at 53.3° north.
Over its 180-year history, the Earlscliffe house has been owned by various individuals with connections to significant episodes and events in both Irish and world history.
On this site you can explore the garden and its plants, learn about the history of the house and its residents, and discover the wider history, landscape, and walking trails of Howth and the surrounding area.
Seasonal highlight
In interest this month: Agave ferox (Fiery Century Plant)
Showing foliage interest
The Fiery Century Plant (Agave ferox) is a striking, heavily armed succulent from Mexico, valued more for its intensity than for widespread cultivation.
View plant profile
From the Earlscliffe archive
Today’s story: Robert Rooney and the Battle for Glenaveena Bay
When a neighbour blocked a long-used path to the shore with seven strands of barbed wire, Robert Rooney decided to force the issue by cutting through it. His arrest, alongside his son, began a determined legal battle over public access to the Howth cliffs and bay.
Read the story
Online since 1997
Earlscliffe on the web: a house, garden and digital archive since 1997
Earlscliffe has had a presence on the internet since 1997, at a time when the World Wide Web was still new to most people and when many businesses, private houses and gardens had no online presence at all.
What began as an online record of tender plants flourishing at 53.3°N has become part of the story itself: a growing archive of the house, garden, local history and Howth landscape. Over almost three decades, the website has followed the garden, the house, its setting in Howth, and the many stories connected with Earlscliffe.
Explore the historyGardening community
Gardening groups and publications
Earlscliffe is part of a wider gardening and horticultural community. We highlight a small selection of local and national organisations, publications and events that may be useful to gardeners, plant enthusiasts and visitors.
Explore gardening groups and publicationsThis page is periodically reviewed and expanded. Last substantial update: 28 July 2026.