Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

Looking for a trip that infused with local history? Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms, one of Ireland’s leading stately homes, is a nineteenth century Victorian styled mansion that is located in the heart of Killarney National Park. Situated close to the eastern shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney’s 3 lakes famous for their beauty and tranquillity, Muckross Estate is just a ten-minute drive from the International.

Completed in 1843 by the well-known Scottish Architect, William Burn, the house was furnished to the highest standards of the era for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife, Mary Balfour Herbert a famous water-colourist. The elegantly furnished rooms portray a vivid description of the lifestyle of the Herbert family.

The gardens are a visual feast with extensive mature planting, water garden and heavenly rock garden hewn out of natural limestone with nature trails and a secret walk to the old boathouse. Many exotic trees and shrubs flourish in the mild Irish climate and are kept sheltered due to the location of the garden. Along with charming tree-fringed lawns, the gardens also hold a fine collection of rhododendrons and azaleas.

The traditional farms located on Muckross Estate portray an authentic interpretation of rural life in Kerry between the 1930’s and 1940’s. Domestic farming and craftwork is on display daily during the visitor season. There are three working farms, each with animals (some of which children can interact with). The machinery used dates back to the origins of the farm and is still worked in their traditional way. Visitors can also explore the Labourer’s Cottage, Carpenter’s Workshop, and the Blacksmith’s Forge. There is also a free coach service that continuously circles the grounds. A must visit for families of all age groups.