Ireland's National Folklife Collection housed in a striking Victorian Gothic mansion, set amid 30 acres of award-winning gardens, woodland and parkland — and completely free to visit.
Explore Ireland's largest folklife collection — around 35,000 objects across four floors of modern, award-winning galleries. Interactive displays, archive film, rare photography and field recordings bring to life the customs, crafts and traditions of rural Ireland.
Step inside this Victorian Gothic mansion from 1865, the ancestral home of the Fitzgerald family. Designed by architect Thomas Newenham Deane, the house sits at the heart of the estate with its original character preserved.
Wander through 30 acres of Green Flag and Green Heritage awarded gardens. Follow paths around the lake, through mature woodland and formal Victorian terraces. Spot the restored glass house, the lean-to vinery (possibly by Richard Turner), and rich birdlife throughout the seasons.
Let the kids loose in this award-winning playground, uniquely built into the 'sunken garden' in the woods. Features include a giant hillside slide, climbing bars, swings and natural play elements. Named best public playground in Ireland in 2019.
Cycle or walk the 10km Castlebar to Turlough Greenway, a mainly off-road riverside route through countryside and woodland that ends right at the museum grounds. Allow one hour to cycle (two to walk) from Castlebar. Bike hire and e-bikes available in Castlebar.
Spot the well-preserved 9th-century round tower overlooking the estate — one of only five in Mayo, reputedly on a site founded by St Patrick. Also discover outdoor sculptures including 'Portal' by Barry Linnane and 'Raon an Tuthail' by Colm Brennan, plus the 18th-century ruin of the original Fitzgerald residence.
Refuel at Synge & Byrne Café in the courtyard, serving breakfast, lunch, children's meals, speciality coffees and in-house bakery treats. Next door, browse the gift shop for unique Irish books, crafts and museum-branded products.
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