http://www.cultureheritageireland.com 130 leading culture, heritage, theatre, craft and festival attractions in Ireland Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:48:45 +0000 http://backend.userland.com/rss092 en Travel back in time and relive the Somme. Walk along the trenches, look into No Man’s Land and experience the sights and sounds of the Battlefield, an experience to remember! http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=210 Donegal County Museum, based in part of the old Letterkenny Workhouse, houses both temporary and permanent exhibitions which tell the story of Donegal from the Stone Age to the Twentieth Century. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=208 The Navan Centre interprets one of Ireland’s most important ancient monuments, Navan Fort, formerly royal seat of the Kings of Ulster and the province’s ancient capital. (Seasonal attraction) http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=206 A fascinating mid-18th Century house with 19th Century additions, Mount Stewart House has one of the greatest Gardens in these islands with an unrivalled collection of rare and unusual plants. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=205 Larne Museum is a lively community museum located in the former Carnegie Free Public Library. This historic building, dating from 1906, has been beautifully restored. The Museum’s exhibitions reflect the area’s rich maritime, industrial and agricultural heritage. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=204 Strokestown Park House a fully furnished Georgian Mansion, the National Irish famine Museum & six acre walled gardens. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=202 Knock Museum captures the compelling story of the Knock Apparition of 1879 and tells of the fifteen people who witnessed the event. Open all year. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=201 Visit a Crannóg, Ringfort, Clochaun and the Dan O’Hara Prefamine Homestead & Farm. Multi-lingual Audio Visual & History Presentation. Guided tours with turf cutting, sheep-shearing by arrangement. Restaurant & Craft Shop. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=199 This award-winning Museum recalls the nostalgic era of the Flying Boats. Board the recreated B314 Flying Boat and experience the luxury of flying at that time. Enjoy ‘Atlantic Conquest’ in our 1940’s style cinema. Try flying our flight simulators. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=198 Cobh a unique Irish port town was the most important port of emigration in the country, right up to the 1960’s. It was the last port of call for the ill fated Titanic and a final resting place for the victims of the Lusitania sinking. Cobh Heritage Centre dramatically recalls ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=197 Bantry House & Garden is privately owned by the Shelswell-White family, descendents of the Earls of Bantry. There is an eclectic collection of art treasures and 45 acres of formal landscaped garden as well as woodland. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=196 At the foot of the Rock of Cashel, Brú Ború is a cultural village and home to the study and celebration of native Irish music, song, dance, theatre and Celtic studies. “Sounds of History” recounts the story of Ireland’s history. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=193 Walk into the National Museum of Ireland and you are magically transported back in time. The museum first opened its doors in 1980 and since then it has been filling in the blanks for us through its extensive archaeological collections. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=191 Explore Ireland’s literary heritage, start researching your family history and visit the current exhibitions at the National Library of Ireland. The award-winning exhibition Yeats: the life and works of William Butler Yeats celebrates his legacy and poetry. Strangers to citizens: the Irish in Europe, 1600-1800 tells the story of the Irish ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=190 Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre, housed in the 1897 Bonded Warehouse, relates the story of Tullamore Dew Whiskey / Irish Mist Liqueur, the Grand Canal and the development of Tullamore town. Audio-visual, Self-guided tours daily. Open all year. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=188 Follow the fascinating craft of whiskey making through its different stages at the Old Jameson Distillery in the heart of Dublin. Just 3 mins from Smithfield Luas, this is a discovery not to be missed! Book online www.jamesonwhiskey.com/ojd http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=187 Visitors take a guided tour from the basement to the attic, through rooms furnished with original artefacts as they would have been in 1790 to 1820. Presented by the Electrical Supply Board and National Museum of Ireland. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=186 The National Photographic Archive houses the photograph collection of the National Library of Ireland. The provision of an exhibition gallery and a research roomenhance access to the collection. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=185 Closed until further notice. Please see www.museum.ie for further information http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=184 Collins Barracks could be said to be the National Museum of Ireland’s largest artefact, having had a unique history all of its own in another life. All pieces displayed entice you to go further, look harder and examine more closely. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=183 Offers a unique visitor experience in Ireland with the newly refurbished Space Theatre recreating stunning visualisations of the night sky. Its 360° immersive projection system can take you to other worlds and beyond. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=182 Trinity College Dublin is the oldest University in Ireland, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. The Old Library houses the Book of Kells and other early manuscripts. The LongRoomis the largest single-chamber library in the world. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=173 Birr has stayed true to its 18th and 19th centurycharacter, with tree-lined malls,avenues and wonderful Georgian architecture. A facsimile copy of the Macregol Gospels is on display in Birr Library, a Pugin designed former Convent of Mercy chapel. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=172 A multi-activity forest park centred on the interactive multimedia ‘footprints in coal’ exhibition which tells the complete story of the Castlecomer coal from formation to extraction. Fun for all the family. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=167 The new Mid-Antrim Museum is designed to world-class standards, with content and storyline to fascinate local residents and visitors alike. It explores the history of mid- Antrim from earliest times to the present day through a mix of state of art interactive technology and remarkable original artefacts. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=163 History, beauty and atmosphere- one of Ireland’s finest historic houses, gardens and landscaped parklands. Open year round, events including Midlands Garden Festival, Vintage Fire Engine Gathering, Easter, Halloween & Christmas Events and much more. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=158 Discover the secrets that make Belleek Pottery one of the most enduring success stories in Irish Craftsmanship. Our award winning visitor centre offers guided tours with a chance to meet and talk with the craftsmen, along with restaurant, audiovisual theatre, museum and before you leave be sure to browse around ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=157 Lissadell House & Gardens are the birthplace of Countess Markievicz, one of the leaders of the 1916 Rising and first woman elected to the House of Commons. She was often visited by one of Ireland’s most famous poets,W.B. Yeats. The house is recently restored with its large gardens reopened, together ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=148 Tower Museum hosts two major historical exhibitions. The Story of Derry presents the history of the city from foundation to present day and An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera tells the story of an armada shipwreck in Irish waters. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=149 Sentry Hill is a 19th Century farmhouse in the Parish of Carnmoney,Co. Antrim. It was the home of the McKinney family who came to Ireland from Scotland in the early 1700’s. Remarkably the contents of the house have survived almost intact. The collection reflects not only rural life, but also ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=145 Riverwatch Aquarium and Visitor Centre is a great educational resource and tourist attraction located just outside Derry City centre and with Free admission is a must do for families, schools and visitors. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=141 Westport house comprises stunning scenery, architectural magnificence, beautiful gardens and a Pirate Adventure Park combined with a remarkable history to provide a treasure trove of memorable experience for all ages. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=138 Marble Arch Caves are one of Europe’s finest showcaves with a fascinating natural underworld of rivers, waterfalls, winding passages and lofty chambers. UNESCO Global Geopark Status awarded in 2004. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=137 Situated in 19th Century Building the Clew Bay Heritage Centre traces the history of Westport and Clew Bay area from Pre-Christian times to the present, with emphasis on Croagh Patrick & Grace O’Malley, Pirate Queen. A full genealogical research service is available. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=136 There is so much to explore at this warmand welcoming 18th Century home of the former Earls of Enniskillen. Informative house tours, stunning walks and fun events make Florence Court a wonderful place to visit. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=135 Set in modern exhibition galleries in the spectacular grounds of Turlough Park, visitors are invited to experience traditions of rural life throughout Ireland from 1850-1950 in this award-winning museum. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=133 Northern Ireland’s only public aquarium and seal sanctuary, Exploris is located in the loughshore village of Portaferry. The aquarium’s live exhibits lead you from the rich tidal waters of Strangford Lough and out to the underwater world of the open sea. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=132 After major development this historic backdrop now encompasses a landmark cluster of unique attractions serving the needs of a 21st Century visitor, with a new lakeside centre providing an ideal gateway for pursuits in the park - Irelands only Tree Canopy Trail and the unique Boda Borg Quest House, Gift ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=131 Kylemore Abbey, built as a castle in 1868, is the home of the Irish Benedictine Nuns.Visit the beautiful Abbey, neo-Gothic Church and Mausoleum,CraftShop,Pottery Studio and Restaurant and take the complimentary shuttle bus to the 6-acreVictorianWalled Garden. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=130 Dating back to the 15th century, this impressive castle overlooks Lough Erne on the west side of Enniskillen and includes Fermanagh County Museum, and the Inniskillings Museum. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=126 The new exhibition ‘Down through time’ and historic prison cells are must-see attractions at the museum featuring hands-on activities for families and a taste of Co. Down archaeology and history. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=125 Castle Ward is a superb Georgian house with both classical and gothic facades and interiors, set in a 820 acre demesne with breathtaking views over Strangford Lough and delightful walks through mature parkland. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=124 Located in the heart of the town, Carrickfergus Museum reflects both the stories and experience of ordinary people and also the dramatic and tumultuous events in the town’s history. Carrickfergus is the most excavated town in Northern Ireland and the finds provide a remarkable glimpse of life in medieval and ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=123 Located in a picturesque valley with breathtaking scenery, Arigna Mining Experience gives visitors an incredible insight into the work of a miner which was exhausting and often hazardous. All tours are carried out by ex-miners. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=118 13th Century Castle in the town centre with 17th Century Damer House in the castle courtyard. Take time to see the St. Cronan’s monastic ruins with its 12th Century West Gable, The Round Tower and Black Mills with original High Cross are also not to be missed. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=117 Built between 1200 and 1210, King John’s Castle features an imaginative historical exhibition which tells the story of the castle, archaeological excavations and it also offers panoramic views of Limerick City and the surrounding countryside. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=116 Vandeleur Walled Garden - Beautifully constructed old stone walls enclose this sheltered walled garden, once the forgotten garden of kilrush house, home to the Vandeleur landlords. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=115 The Athenry Heritage Centre is the ideal starting place to discover the rich medieval history of Athenry, the best preserved medieval town in Ireland. The centre also provides audio hire and maps for the award winning architectural tour of Athenry. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=113 The eco-friendly visitor centre at Ireland’s most spectacular sea cliffs houses the award winning Atlantic Edge exhibition and state of art visitor facilities. Cliffs of Moher Rangers are available on the cliff edge pathways and viewing platforms for information, safety and conservation measures. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=112 Craggaunowen, The Living Past interprets Ireland’s prehistoric and early Christian eras. Explore a replica of a Crannóg (Lake Dwelling), Ring Fort, “Iron Age Roadway”. Visitors can also view 16th Century Craggaunowen Castle and the “Brendan Voyage Boat”. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=111 Come see 6,000 years of Clare’s History with Authentic Artefacts, colourful text panels Audio-Visual presentations and touch screens interactives. Its all absolutely free. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=110 Caherconnell Stone Fort home of the Davoren family was built about 1500 years ago. During a visit to Caherconnell you experience through audiovisual and animated presentations (in English, French and Italian) the unique history and heritage of the Burren tombs and monuments including Pulnabrone Dolmen. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=109 The story of the Burren is excitingly captured and impressively presented in ‘A Walk through Time’ ultidimensional exhibition, together with audio-visual and interactive experiences. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=107 Bunratty Castle is the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland, built in 1425 and restored in 1954. Within its grounds is the Folk Park, where 19th century village and rural life is recreated. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=106 Ireland’s Premier Showcave, should be part of everyone’s visit to the Burren. Guided tours showing pectacular caverns and bear pits. Award winning building houses a café & distinctly different craft shops. Burren Bird of Prey Centre home to the largest display of birds of prey in Ireland. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=104 The Historical Exhibition allows you to experience this area’s unique history, from1233 to the present day. Guided tours of Desmond Castle available in high season. Tourist Information, Restaurant, Craft Shops & Heraldry also on site. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=102 Discover the Heritage of the stunning Walled Town of Youghal. Guided tour: July & August(Mon-Fri). Durationapprox 1 hour. Departs: Youghal Tourist Office, Market Sqaure, Youghal http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=99 Great famine commeration exhibition brings this period of Irish history to life. Lough Hyne visitor centre offers an insight into Ireland’s first marine nature reserve. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=98 At Ireland’s most south-westerly point, the Mizen Head Signal Station has spectacular coastal views and is an exhilarating experience in any weather. The Visitor Centre has fascinating exhibits. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=96 Kerry County Museum brings to life the story of Kerry from the earliest times to the present day. Priceless treasures are on display in the Museum, illustrating the rich heritage of the county. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=90 Learn how Jameson became the world’s largest selling Irish whiskey. Enjoy the whiskey tasting session, Malt House Restaurant, Jameson bar and Gift shop. Open all year except certain days at Christmas and Good Friday. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=88 Fota House was designed by the famous Morrison architects and the arboretum and gardens are of international repute for their collection of rare and tender trees and shrubs. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=87 Situated just 8km from Cork City, this historic Castle is most famous for the Blarney Stone, which has the traditional power of conferring eloquence on all who kiss it. The mysterious Rock Close is set in the Castle grounds. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=86 Home to some of Ireland’s wildest animals, Dublin Zoo is one of the most exciting days out a family can have. There are plenty of amazing animals to discover including tigers, hippos, gorillas, chimpanzees, red pandas and a lion to name but a few! From Mar-Sep Dublin Zoo is open ... http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=82 With over 90 different species on view, the National Sea Life Centre in Bray invites visitors to enjoy a journey through the magical world of underwater wildlife… without getting wet! http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=81 A visit to Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre provides a truly memorable day out. Enjoy the Factory Tour, meeting our Master Craftsmen and shopping in our Retail Stores http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=76 A permanent display of the dramatic Ros Tapestry experience tells the story of Ireland’s romantic Norman past. The fifteen large panels each depict a significant historical event portraying Norman customs, traditions, rituals and folklore that shaped life in Wexford and the South East. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=75 Lismore’s history is inextricably linked with the church and the story is told beguilingly at the Heritage Centre in the town. Find out about the ancient treasures of Lismore and see how the town evolved through the ages. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=73 Board the Dunbrody and walk in the footsteps of famine emigrants on their journey of hope across the Atlantic Ocean. Re-enactors bring history to life. Database of ships passenger lists available to trace your ancestors. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=71 At Kildare Village outlet shopping, less than an hour from Dublin City Centre, discover an impressive range of international brands offering previous seasons’ collections for the home and wardrobe at up to 60% off. Tax refund facilities & tourist information office on site. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=69 Dominated by the majestic 12th Century Castle (the largest Anglo-Norman Castle in Europe) and the mystical River Boyne, Trim provides visitors with the ultimate in relaxation or the thrill of action. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=67 Russborough is often described as ‘the most beautiful house in Ireland’. It is beautifully maintained & lavishly furnished and contains paintings from the Beit collection, fine furniture, tapestries, carpets, porcelain & silver. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=66 Set in the foothills of theWicklow Mountains, Powerscourt is one of the world’s great gardens. A sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces and ornamental lakes, with over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=65 Established in 1757, Locke’s Distillery is the oldest licensed pot still distillery in the world. Take a tour of the museum, before sampling the famous Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=62 Kells Heritage Centre is a vibrant visitor attraction located in the Heritage Town of Kells. Housed in the beautifully restored Courthouse are a multi-media exhibition, gift shop, coffee shop and Kells Tourist Information Centre. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=61 The world famous Japanese Gardens are joined by St. Fiachra’s Garden, featuring four acres of woodland and lakeside walks and the Horse Museum, where the ‘Sport of Kings’ comes to life. Guided Tours are given of the Irish National Stud. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=60 On Dublin’s doorstep, the home to the Earls of Meath since 1618 offers visitors its Elizabethan-Revival mansion, beautifully maintained 17th Century gardens, woodlands and a friendly welcome. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=54 The Premier Historic House in Co. Louth is a style unique in Ireland. The walled garden’s breathtaking border draws the visitor deeper into a haven of floral and horticultural beauty. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=47 Set in over 500 acres of forest, this beautiful Georgian House, built in 1777 and featuring fine plasterwork & original pieces of furniture, was the birthplace of Charles Stewart Parnell, one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=45 Castletown House is the most celebrated and magnificent Palladian style mansion in Ireland. The extraordinary scale, decoration, plasterwork and collections at Castletown as presented today, continue to bring to life this unique period in Ireland’s history. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=44 The National Wax Museum Plus is an exciting interactive visitor attraction located in the heart of Dublin’s City Centre. The centre has been designed to deliver an interactive experience taking you on a journey through Irish Culture and heritage. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=43 The Mill Complex is a unique collection of 5 Sail and 4 Sail Watermills and Watermill with associated mill races, pond and wetlands. The history of the mills dates back to the 16th Century. Facilities include Watermill Café and Craft Shop. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=42 Located in Dublin’s City Centre, the Hugh Lane Gallery houses one of Ireland’s foremost collections of contemporary art. The original collection, donated by Sir Hugh Lane has now grown to include almost 2000 artworks. The reconstructed Francis Bacon Studio provides invaluable insight into the artist’s life. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=31 Founded in 1191, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral has contributed much to Irish life throughout its long history. Living Stones, a permanent exhibition, celebrates the Cathedral’s place in the city’s history. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=33 One of Ireland’s ‘must visit’ tourist attractions hosting lunchtime and evening concerts, workshops and festivals throughout the year. Programmes include Classical, Traditional,World, Jazz, Dance and Opera. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=32 Guinness Storehouse, Ireland’s number one visitor attraction, is an incredible journey into the history and making of the world famous beer. It’s a dramatic story, which started 250 years ago and ends in Gravity Bar with a complimentary pint of Guinness and an astonishing view of Dublin. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=30 Dublinia brings the early history of Dublin vividly to life. Located in the heart of the medieval quarter, this award winning heritage centre reveals the amazing story of the vikings and the turbulent tale of Medieval Dublin. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=28 “The Story of the Capital” exhibition offers a quick ‘warts and all’ introduction to the history of Dublin City. The exhibition traces the evolution of the City from 1170 to today in a friendly and easy-to-understand way, using interactive touchscreens, film clips, models and city treasures. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=29 Discover ‘The Medieval Experience’ - with characters from Dalkey’s medieval past brought to life from Delig Inis Theatre Company. Guided Walks (enquire for details). Bloomsday celebrations on June 16th annually. Open all year except Christmas & March 29th/31st 2010. Closed Tuesdays. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=25 Founded c.1030, Christ Church is one of the oldest and most recognised landmarks in Dublin. The medieval crypt is one of the largest in Britain and Ireland. http://www.cultureheritageireland.com/?p=23