1. Boules on the Lawn
Join us from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, 19 July to learn about the sport of pétanque – also known as outdoor boules - with the members of Castlebar Pétanque Club. See a demonstration of this lively and strategic sport – which originated in the early 20th century in France. Then have a go yourself! Admission is free and no booking is required.
Read more2. Traders on the Reek
Ahead of this year's Reek Sunday, explore an interesting part of the history of this well-known annual pilgrimage date. Come along at 2pm on Saturday, 19 July for a special screening of ‘Traders on the Reek’. This documentary tells the story of families who have fed and watered many thousands of pilgrims on Croagh Patrick down through the generations. Booking required.
Read more3. Take a tour
Discover objects and stories that are both familiar and surprising from the National Folklife Collection. Join a free guided tour at 2pm and 3.30pm each Saturday to learn about life in the Irish countryside from the 1850s to 1950s, exploring fascinating traditions, customs and skills. Then learn more about the Fitzgerald family and the history and architectural style of Turlough Park House and Gardens.
Read more4. Woodland Explorer
Young visitors are invited to explore biodiversity and engage in some mindful nature watching through the free Woodland Explorer activity booklet, available from Museum Reception. The grounds of Turlough Park are home to lots of different habitats with woodland, gardens, lake and river areas. Learn more and use your keen senses and skills to complete a series of fun nature challenges to finish this self-guided trail!
Read more5. National Heritage Week
The Museum will once again be participating in National Heritage Week between 16 and 24 August. One of this year’s highlight events is a traditional skills demonstration featuring the well-known woodworker and influencer Eoin Reardon and skilled basketmaker Tom Delaney of ‘Ould Crafty’. This event takes place on Sunday, 24 August. Be sure to follow the National Museum on social media for further details as they are announced.
6. Orienteering
Did you know you can give orienteering a try in the grounds of Turlough Park? Go to Museum Reception to pick up a map of the newly developed orienteering routes. There are five maps to choose from. Then download the app to enjoy a fun, family friendly orienteering activity through 30-acres of gardens, woodland and parkland.
Read more7. 'SWARM'
Pencil in a stop at the Courtyard Gallery during your visit to see a vibrant children’s art installation inspired by Ireland’s bee species. Combining colour, movement and shadow, SWARM was created by school children across counties Mayo, Sligo and Galway, working with artist Cas McCarthy. The project took place in association with the popular exhibition The Murmur of Bees, which remains on display this summer in the exhibition galleries.
Read more8. Greenway day out
Combine your visit with a Greenway cycle for a great day out for all of the family. The Museum Greenway connects Castlebar to the grounds of Turlough Park, following the course of the Castlebar River through peaceful countryside and native woodland sections.
Read moreTurlough Park
Turlough Park,
Castlebar,
Co. Mayo,
F23 HY31
+353 94 903 1755