Our story
Rooted in community
Robertshill Community Garden began with a simple idea: that a patch of ground, some willing hands, and a shared table could change a neighbourhood.
How it all began
Robertshill Community Garden began with conversations between neighbours who shared a vision: to transform an underused piece of land on the edge of the Robertshill housing estate into a space for the whole community. Owned by Kilkenny County Council, the land has been leased to the Robertshill Community Garden Committee to develop a garden for residents of Robertshill and the wider community.
Our committee and volunteers are working together to create a welcoming space where people can connect with nature, grow fresh produce sustainably, and build lasting friendships. Whether you’re a seasoned grower, a complete beginner, a family, an older adult, or simply someone who enjoys being outdoors in good company, there’s a place for you in our garden.
Our garden is just beginning to take shape. With plans coming together and funding becoming available, the hard work starts now. Over the coming year, our committee and volunteers will erect a polytunnel, build raised beds, lay paths, and plant native plants, fruit trees, and flowers—bringing colour, life, and biodiversity to the space. We will also offer training courses in partnership with Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB), helping volunteers develop practical skills and the confidence to play an active role in the garden. Course details will be announced as they become available. Join us as we grow an oasis in the heart of Kilkenny City—a place to learn, share, and grow together.
What we stand for
Three ideas guide everything we do at Robertshill.
Grow
We believe in growing food, growing skills, and growing confidence. The garden is a place to get your hands dirty and learn as you go — no experience needed.
Learn
Knowledge shared is knowledge multiplied. We run workshops, swap seeds and cuttings, and pass on what we know — from composting to crop rotation to cooking what you've grown.
Connect
A garden is more than plants. It is a place where neighbours become friends, where isolation gives way to belonging, and where the act of tending something together builds something lasting.
"Good soil, good food, good company."
The people behind the garden
Robertshill is run by a small group of dedicated volunteers who give their time to keep the garden open, welcoming, and growing.
The Volunteer Crew
Garden stewards
Our core group of regular volunteers keeps the garden ticking — opening up on session days, maintaining the beds, and making sure there is always a warm welcome for anyone who turns up.
Workshop Leaders
Growers & educators
Local growers, cooks, and craftspeople who share their knowledge through our seasonal workshops. If you have a skill you would like to share, we would love to hear from you.
You
Future volunteer
The garden grows with every person who joins. Whether you can spare an hour a month or a morning a week, there is always something useful to do and always a good reason to come back.
Come and see for yourself
The best way to understand what Robertshill is about is to visit. Drop in on a session day, say hello, and see what's growing.