Muckross House Gardens and Traditional Farms

FEW destinations pour on the charm quite like Muckross House. This is one of Kerry’s gems and if it’s old world charm you’re after, this is it. A surge in interest in period homes peaked a few years ago when the TV series Downtown Abbey was all the rage. People went in search of stately homes and if this sounds like something you’re interested in, than a visit to Muckross House is a must.

This 19th century Victorian Mansion was built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his wife Mary Balfour Herbert. The Herbert family have deep roots in the locality and it’s thanks to architect William Burn, whose design was started in 1839, one of the most stunning attractions in the county was built. It was completed in 1843 and its most famous visitor was Queen Victoria in 1861 who, due to her fear of fire, insisted on sleeping downstairs. The Royal bedroom can still be viewed by the public today.

The house and adjoining restaurant/coffee shop is the perfect way to round off a trip to Killarney National Park. The Muckross Traditional Farms is another ‘must see’ where visitors are transported back to farming life long ago. Old houses, a schoolhouse, work horses, pigs, poultry and much more besides await the curious visitor.

This whole place takes on a life of its own this time of year. But it is a busy time so be sure to plan your visit properly to avoid disappointment. Muckross House and Gardens is a jewel and admission is by guided tour only. Last admission is one hour before closing. For updates check out their Facebook page.