The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, located at Turlough Park near Castlebar, in County Mayo, is the only Irish museum dedicated to rural life between 1850 and 1950. Set in a picturesque historic park with Victorian gardens, the museum tells the story of the daily life of agricultural and artisan communities of Ireland from that time.
The collection displays over 50,000 objects, including agricultural tools, traditional clothing, household furnishings, fishing tools, and artisanal artifacts. The interactive and multimedia exhibitions allow visitors to discover how Irish families lived, with sections dedicated to holidays, traditional crafts, and food production.
The Turlough Park complex also includes the historic Turlough House, an 18th-century residence that now hosts temporary exhibitions and educational spaces. The surrounding gardens and café make the visit enjoyable and suitable for families and groups of all ages.
With free admission and numerous seasonal events, the Country Life Museum offers an authentic journey into the culture and traditions of rural Ireland, away from the big cities and immersed in a unique natural setting.
Read more
Info and hours
Turlough Park House, Gortnafolla, Castlebar, Ireland