National Museum of Ireland – Country Life

The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, located in Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Irish heritage and rural life. This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and traditions of Ireland’s countryside between 1850 and 1950. With its extensive collections, beautiful grounds, and engaging activities, it’s an ideal place for families and history enthusiasts alike.

History

The museum is home to Ireland’s National Folklife Collection, which comprises over 35,000 objects, including artifacts, archival documentation, field recordings, and image collections. The collection aims to preserve the material culture that forms part of the traditional way of life in Ireland. The museum is housed in Turlough Park House, a Victorian Gothic mansion dating back to 1865, which was the ancestral home of the influential Fitzgerald family.

How to Get There

– From Dublin: Take the N4 and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 240 km and takes about 3 hours.
– From Westport: Follow the N5 route. The distance is about 25 km, and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
– From Galway: Take the N84 and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 80 km and takes about 1 hour.
– From Sligo: Follow the N17 and N5 routes. The distance is about 80 km, and the journey takes about 1 hour.
– From Limerick: Take the N18, N17, N60, N84, and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 170 km and takes about 2 hours.
– From Cork: Follow the N20, N18, N17, N60, N84, and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 270 km and takes about 3.5 hours.
– From Belfast: Take the M1, A4, N16, N4, N17, and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 172 miles and takes about 4 hours.
– From Knock Airport: Follow the R376 and N17 routes. The journey is approximately 40 km and takes about 30 minutes.
– From Shannon Airport: Take the N19, N18, N17, N60, N84, and N5 routes. The journey is approximately 160 km and takes about 2 hours.

Attractions

1. Ireland’s National Folklife Collection:
– Explore four floors of modern, award-winning exhibition galleries featuring objects, interactive audio and visual displays, rare photography, and archive film footage that depict the lifestyles, customs, and traditions of rural ancestors.

2. Turlough Park House:
– Visit historic Turlough Park House, a Victorian Gothic mansion dating to 1865. This house was the ancestral home of the influential Fitzgerald family.

3. Victorian Gardens:
– Admire the Green Flag award-winning gardens, which are some of the loveliest in the region. The gardens feature interesting features and activities for visitors.

4. Museum Greenway:
– Start your visit with a scenic Greenway cycle for a great day out suitable for all the family.

5. Courtyard Café:
– Enjoy a bite to eat or a sweet treat in the Museum café. If the weather is nice, enjoy the outdoor seating in the courtyard. The Courtyard Gallery next door also has a changing program of art exhibitions.

6. Outdoor Art:
– Discover several outdoor artworks located throughout the grounds, including sculptures like ‘Portal’ by Barry Linnane and ‘Raon an Tuthail’ by Colm Brennan.

7. Woodland Playground:
– Let the little ones play in the award-winning woodland playground featuring a giant slide, swings, climbing bars, and natural play features.

8. Irish Books and Crafts:
– Browse a wide range of unique, Irish books, gifts, and crafts in the Museum Gift Shop.

Ticket Information

Admission to the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life is free. The museum is open daily from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday and Monday from 1 pm to 5 pm. It is closed on Christmas Day, St. Stephen’s Day, and Good Friday.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan Your Visit: Check the museum’s website for special events and exhibitions to ensure you don’t miss out on any unique activities.

2. Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with lifts to all floors within the exhibition galleries.

3. Parking: There is a large car park on site with several designated disability parking spaces. There is also a set-down and pick-up area in front of Turlough Park House for mobility-impaired visitors.

4. Family-Friendly: The museum offers a variety of activities suitable for families, including the woodland playground and interactive exhibits.

5. Café and Gift Shop: Take a break at the Courtyard Café and browse the gift shop for unique Irish items.

6. Guided Tours: Join a museum guide for an engaging and informative tour of the museum galleries, Turlough Park House, and Woodland Gardens.

7. Heritage Week Events: Check the museum’s schedule for special events during Heritage Week, which often include talks, demonstrations, and workshops.

8. Explore the Grounds: Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful grounds of Turlough Park after your self-guided tour. Enjoy the grand courtyards, magnificent gardens, and stunning lake.

By following these tips and exploring the various attractions, you’ll have a memorable and enriching experience at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life.