Would you like to uncover the secrets of ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs, Viking runes or Ogham code, learn how to tie a harvest knot, discover more about Ireland’s garden birds, or make your own bird helmet? Explore, engage and enjoy these National Museum of Ireland at home activities for a free, fun learning experience that children and adults will love.
Our four National Museums of Ireland are wonderful places to visit. Entry is free, and each museum is home to extensive collections that preserve our shared past. Throughout the year, the museums also run a range of free events on all sorts of topics.
What’s less well known is that you can enjoy the museums’ learning activities from home too. The National Museum of Ireland has an online Museum at Home hub, packed with inspiring activities to try with the family. From archaeology to natural history, and decorative arts to country life, simply choose a museum and see what’s on offer.
Our Pick Of National Museum Of Ireland Museum At Home Activities
Ogham Code
Ogham writing is the earliest known form of writing found in Ireland. Discover where in Ireland Ogham can be found, and write your own message on an Ogham stone.
Viking Videos
Check out the Viking videos to learn more about how the Vikings arrived in Ireland, and discover some of the objects on display at the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology.
Make A Harvest Knot
Harvest knots are woven from straw and were traditionally made as part of harvest celebrations. Watch the short film by museum educator Tom Doyle to learn how to make a harvest knot to celebrate Lúnasa.
Design & Make A Paper Basket
Design and make your own paper basket, inspired by the rush basket in the handling collection and the baskets on display at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life. Watch a step-by-step tutorial by artist and museum guide Renata Pekowska on how to make a paper basket.
Make A Bird Helmet
Design your own bird helmet, inspired by the Samurai armour on display in the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History out-of-storage exhibition. Watch the step-by-step tutorial by artist and museum guide Renata Pekowska.
Make Your Own Wearable Giant Irish Deer Antlers
Design a set of antlers, inspired by the Giant Irish Deer fossil skeletons on display in the Irish Room at the National Museum of Ireland – Natural History. Watch the short video to learn how to make your own wearable antlers.
Birdsong Challenge Activity
Learn the songs of Ireland’s most common garden birds. Watch the videos and learn to recognise the songs, then see if you can spot and hear them on your next outdoor adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the National Museum of Ireland at home hub free to use?
Yes. All of the activities on the Museum at Home hub are free to access online, just like a visit to the museums themselves.
Do I need to visit a museum in person to try these activities?
No. Every activity in this collection can be enjoyed at home, using the videos and instructions provided on the National Museum of Ireland’s website.
Where can I find more Museum at Home activities?
The Museum at Home hub is regularly updated, so it’s worth checking back to see what new activities have been added across archaeology, natural history, decorative arts and country life.
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Looking for more rainy day inspiration? You might also enjoy:
- Free Things To Do With Kids In Ireland
- Easy Craft Ideas To Try At Home
- Fun Nature Activities For Kids
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