A Palladian mansion on the N81 just outside Blessington, holding one of Ireland's great private art collections, wrapped in 200 acres of parkland, maze and lake walks.
Local guides lead you through the grand rooms of the Palladian house, its plasterwork, antiques and the Beit art collection; tours last about 50 minutes and run on the hour. Non-flash photography is allowed inside, but prams, food and drink are not.
The 200-acre estate has a 2km Lake Walk taking in views of the lakes and Wicklow Mountains, a 2.5km Woodland Walk through the Rhododendron Garden, plus a longer Loop Walk past the old Ice House and Lime Kiln. Dogs are welcome on a lead; bicycles are not allowed on the trails.
A beech hedge maze planted in the 1980s by Sir Alfred Beit, with roughly 2km of winding paths leading to a statue of the Greek goddess Fame on a column that inspired the Russborough logo. Maze entry is sold as a single ticket or included with a Park Ticket.
In the basement, an immersive exhibition uses film, sound and archive photography to tell the story of Sir Alfred and Lady Clementine Beit, their travels, music and the servants who ran the house.
A children's trail runs from hidden fairy doors to Lady's Island, with animal illustrations and quiz signs along the way. The large playground has slides, climbing frames, swings and space to run, and there are designated picnic areas.
Eagles, owls and falcons are flown in daily demonstrations; public guided tours run Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays at 2.30pm, 3.30pm and 4.30pm, while Hawk Walks and Owl Experiences can be booked seven days a week directly with the centre.
Replanted by RHSI volunteers to reflect its original kitchen-garden planting, the walled garden blooms with flowers, herbs and rare plants and has plants for sale. It opens only on selected days.
Other operators based on the estate offer kayaking, archery, orienteering and pedal karting, artisan studios selling handmade crafts, and art workshops and classes at the Schoolhouse for Art.
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