Experience Victorian Living and Gardens at Muckross House
Nestled in one of Irelands premier national parks, Muckross House has proved a popular attraction for visitors.
The stunning 19th century building lies near the shores of Muckross Lake and Lough Leane, both of which are located in Killarney National Park, County Kerry. Many visitors choose to drive to the mansion and explore its premises before heading out into the park for a day of hiking in the fresh air. In addition to the impressive house, visitors can stroll around through walled gardens and traditional farms on the property.
An Accurate Representation
The home was constructed for wealthy landowner Henry Arthur Herbert and his artist wife in 1843. Rooms within the mansion have been recreated in their original style and accurately reflect how large premises were decorated this time. Visitors can take a peek at the sumptuously decorated bedrooms, including one used by Queen Victoria. Dining rooms hung with heavy curtains and lit by sparkling chandeliers charm visitors who are keen to take a look into the past.
In their time at the home, the Herbert family enjoyed attractive gardens. Following the sale of the home to another family, the external areas underwent extensive development, including the construction of a rock garden and sunken garden. Visitors can still enjoy the fresh breezes coming off the lakes by taking a walk in the reconstructed Victorian Walled Garden. Opened in 2000, it features traditional glasshouses and 19th century style and bedding areas that team with aromatic plants and flowers.
A Conservation Bookbinding Workshop shows how experts help to restore historical books at the site without damaging delicate fibres, while the Muckross Craft Shop provides the ideal opportunity to pick up some keepsakes. An array of Irish products is offered, including jewellery, prints and music. There are also demonstrations by traditional weavers and potters, with the finished goods going on sale. Visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments at the Garden Restaurant, which has a mouth-watering menu.
Muckrosss traditional farmhouses has been recreated to appear as a farm would in the 1930s or 40s. Its a great chance to see how Irish agriculture workers managed without electricity or machinery. Workshops are offered for youngsters keen to enjoy the animals living on the site.
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