The National Museum of Ireland
Country Life
Turlough Park, Castlebar, County Mayo
ADMISSION FREE - SUITABLE FOR ALL THE FAMILY
The award winning Museum is all about discovering the story of Irish country life between 1850 and 1950; a history which older visitors will remember clearly and enjoy reminiscing on. Suitable for all ages, the Museum is a must-see attraction for everyone’s list.
It’s a national collection, comprehensive and unique, presented in an engaging and interactive manner - not a dusty boring display in sight. Exhibits over the four floors include original artefacts and displays, captivating archival video footage and interactive screens. Discover the lives of our very recent ancestors through agriculture, fishing and hunting, clothing and textiles, furniture and fittings, trades and crafts, transport, calendar customs, leisure and religion.
Eye-catching displays include handcrafted harvest knots and wickerwork, spinning wheels and boats, traditional clothing, the hand operated machinery our grandparents used and even a life size blacksmith’s forge attracting scores of goggle-eyed children.
A carefully selected programme of temporary exhibitions catches the public imagination, and has included everything from evocative children’s toys to souvenir tourist posters and meteorites. Entrance to temporary exhibitions is also free.
The Museum runs a constantly changing programme of workshops, events and festivals for adults, families and schools. This helps raise awareness of the Museum collection and the associated traditional crafts, customs and traditions. The regular agenda consists of talks, demonstrations and performances as well as hands-on art and craft workshops. The Museum willingly arranges tailored programmes for groups. Admission to all events and workshops is free but booking is required.
