Discover the Magic of Muckross House & Traditional Farms
Muckross House & Traditional Farms is just 6km from Killarney town centre in the heart of Ireland’s first National Park. Surrounded by the famous Lakes of Killarney, mountains and woodlands, it’s the perfect place for a family day out.
Explore a magnificent Victorian mansion and stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens. Step back in time at the Traditional Farms, where little ones can meet friendly farm animals and enjoy the woodland playground. After a day of adventure, relax with delicious food and homemade treats in the Garden Restaurant, then browse local handcrafted gifts and so much more in the Craft Centre.
Here you will find everything you need to help plan your perfect visit to Muckross.
Muckross House & Gardens
The Muckross Estate dates back to the 17th century, when the Herbert family, originally from Wales, made Killarney their home. The present-day Muckross House was built for Henry Arthur Herbert and his family and completed in 1843. Set on the shores of Muckross Lake, it enjoys panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
The house is carefully preserved as a late 19th-century mansion, allowing visitors to experience what family life was like at the time. With original furnishings, period rooms and authentic details throughout, it brings history to life. During their time at Muckross, the Herberts played an active role in social and political life, as well as in the ongoing development of the estate.
Muckross House Opening Times 2026
Muckross House and Gardens are open daily all year round (except the Christmas period).
- January – March 9.15am – 5.30pm, Last Admission 4pm
- April – June 9.15am – 6pm, Last Admission 4.40pm
- July – August 9.15am – 7pm, Last Admission 5.40pm
- September – October 9.15am – 6pm, Last Admission 4.40pm
- November – December 9.15am – 5.30pm, Last Admission 4pm
Muckross Traditional Farms Opening Times 2026
- Mid – March Sat & Sun, 1pm – 6pm
- April & October Sat, Sun & Bank Holidays, 1pm – 6pm
- May & September 7 days a week, 1pm – 6pm
- June – August 7 days a week, 10am – 6pm
- November – February Closed
Please note: Last Admission 1 hour before closing
No pre-booking is required. Simply purchase tickets on arrival at the House or Traditional Farms Reception.
PLEASE NOTE: Muckross Traditional Farms will close for the season from November to February. For ticket prices and more information see here.
Muckross Traditional Farms
Step back in time to 1930s rural Ireland at Muckross Traditional Farms, where life unfolds across three working farms using traditional horsepower and machinery. Water is drawn from the well and electricity had yet to reach the countryside.
Meet the Mná Tí (women of the house) as they bake bread over an open fire, visit the blacksmith’s forge, labourer’s cottage and carpenter’s workshop, and join a lesson in the schoolhouse with the máistir scoile (schoolmaster). Kids will love the petting farm and woodland playground. With so much to see, our free shuttle bus is perfect for little legs!
Facilities at Muckross House
Parking is free, with separate parking facilities available for cars and coaches. Please note access gate closing times.
Most areas of Muckross House and Traditional Farms are wheelchair accessible. However, due to the historic nature of some buildings, access may be limited in certain areas. A courtesy transit wheelchair is available for visitors with reduced mobility for use inside Muckross House only. Please ask a member of staff for further information.
Muckross Garden Restaurant
The Garden Restaurant overlooks the charming Victorian Walled Garden with magnificent views of Torc and Mangerton mountains.
Choose from a selection of freshly made sandwiches, soups and a hot food buffet. Treat yourself to freshly baked scones, pastries, and desserts from their in-house bakery.
Muckross Craft Centre
The Craft Centre celebrates the tradition of local Irish craftsmanship through exclusive Muckross artisan pieces. Muckross pottery is hand-thrown and decorated, while Mucros Weavers create textiles inspired by the Kerry landscape. The Bookbindery produces hand-bound, unique journals.
The Craft Centre also offers a range of gifts, jewellery, clothing, and souvenirs
Directions
The town of Killarney is located in the south-west of Ireland, on the edge of Killarney National Park. Approximate distances from Ireland’s main cities: Dublin: 333km (200 miles); Cork: 83km (50 miles); Galway: 250km (150 miles).
Killarney has direct rail links to Dublin and Cork, while Kerry Airport is located 15km (9 miles) from the town.
When travelling to Muckross House, follow the main Kenmare Road (N71) from Killarney town centre for approximately 6km (3.6 miles). Vehicle access is via the main entrance gate on the right-hand side, located a short distance beyond Muckross Park Hotel & Spa. This entrance provides direct access to both Muckross House and the reception area of Muckross Traditional Farms.
Visitors travelling on foot, by bicycle, or by jaunting car can also enter through several additional entrances along the N71, many of which are closer to Killarney town. These entrances are clearly signposted.
Muckross House Gardens & Traditional Farms at FamilyFun Family Attractions
