1. Step back in time
Explore Ireland's National Folklife Collection to see how people lived long ago. Learn about age-old crafts, see the blacksmith's forge, farming equipment and what an Irish home would have looked like in the 19th century
Read more2. The magic of bees
Celebrate the magic of Ireland’s bees, their vital role in nature, and the special bond they share with us through the new family-friendly exhibition 'The Murmur of Bees' open now with free admission and no booking required.
Read more3. Get on your bike
Combine a visit to the museum with a Greenway day out for all of the family. The 10km Museum Greenway is classed as ‘easy to moderate’ and links Lough Lannagh in Castlebar with the grounds of Turlough Park. Bicycle parking facilities are available at the museum and bicycle hire is available in Castlebar.
Read more4. Become a woodland explorer
The grounds of Turlough Park are home to lots of different habitats with woodland, gardens, lake and river areas. Explore plants, trees, birds and animals using the free 'Woodland Explorer' activity sheet from Museum Reception. Use your keen senses and skills to complete a series of fun nature challenges to finish the trail!
Read more5. Nature craft station
Have a go at making your own paper bee and wildflower to take home, on Saturdays throughout the month of July and August. Visit The Murmur of Bees exhibition to learn all about bees in Ireland and then visit our Nature Craft Station in the Education Rooms on Level C of the Museum Galleries. You will find all of the materials you need along with the instructions to create some nature and bee inspired crafts.
Read more7. Sign-up for a fun event
The Museum offers a year-round programme of free events with lots of family activities including art workshops, crafts, nature walks and more. Browse our latest events and sign-up for one to enjoy together
Read more8. Find Peadar and his Friends!
Pygmy Shrews are Ireland's smallest mammal. They usually live outdoors in woodlands, hedgerows, farmland, gardens and even bogs but Peadar lives at the Museum with seven of his friends. They like to play hide and seek in the exhibition galleries. Pick up the free 'Find Peadar' activity sheet to see if you can follow the map and locate their hiding spots!
Read more9. Go wild in the adventure playground
Opened in 2018, the natural woodland playground is scenically located and a great place to blast off some energy. Have fun on the swings, slides, playhouses, monkey bars and natural stone climbing steps.
Read more10. Enjoy a sweet treat
Visit the café in the courtyard for a sweet treat to round off your day. The café serves lunches, hot and cold snacks, a range of homemade desserts and speciality teas and coffees.
Read moreCountry Life
Turlough Park,
Castlebar,
Co. Mayo,
F23 HY31
+353 94 903 1755