Have you ever visited the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life in Turlough, Castlebar, Co. Mayo? We took our two kids for a visit and here’s what we did at the museum, and what we all thought.
Friendly Staff
If you haven’t been before, The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life is set in a lovely spot at Turlough, just outside Castlebar, overlooking a small lake surrounded by trees and greenery. It’s a genuinely nice place to take a breath of fresh air.
It’s a real bonus having a National Museum in the West of Ireland, as families here can visit more easily than the Dublin museums, which many of us save for school holidays.
When we arrived, we were greeted with a warm smile that instantly brightened our day. The staff member explained where everything was and told the kids about the “Treasure Hunt” activity sheet they could do as they explored.
She spoke directly to the kids too, which was lovely — sometimes everything gets directed through the parent, which can be a bit frustrating for little ones who want to be included.
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Treasure Hunts
Off we went to find the Treasure Hunt sheet, filled with pictures of items to spot around the museum. You had to identify what each item was and which animal it was associated with. It worked well for kids of different ages and gave our two a focus and determination to see everything, which was great fun to watch.
Beside the activity sheet stand was a dress-up rail. The kids could try on clothes from bygone days and admire themselves in a cute kid-sized mirror.
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Interesting Displays
Once we got down to Level -2, where most of the displays are, we started hunting for our Treasure Hunt items.
This level covers different aspects of country life — from the schoolmaster’s classroom, to different trades, to the games children used to play, to the daily work women once had to do around the home and farm.
The kids loved tracking down the various treasures, and it really got all of us looking closely at the objects on display. Coming from a farming background myself, I was able to explain a few of the items I remembered seeing as a child.
It was genuinely interesting to see short videos on how baskets were made, along with images of Halloween traditions that have mostly been lost over time.
There was also an interactive floor plan quiz showing how house layouts used to be arranged — where the bed went, and so on. It really brought home just how little people had back then.
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Kids Stuff
We found the loveliest little kids’ corner, full of books, puzzles and colouring pages, with a beautiful view and a really quiet atmosphere. Our little man made a beeline for it and settled in to read for a while, while my daughter and I wandered around a bit more.
They also loved the schoolmaster display, where they could put on headphones and listen to a lesson from the olden days.
There wasn’t a workshop or event on for kids the day we visited, but the museum runs family events throughout the year. Most are free, though pre-booking is usually needed — it’s worth checking the museum’s own events page for what’s currently on and how to book.
We’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for those.
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The Playground
Outside the museum, you’ll find a gem of a playground, including what our two kids call an “epic” slide.
There’s plenty of fun equipment for smaller kids and bigger ones alike, all in a beautiful natural setting, with ample benches for parents to sit and chat while the kids play.
There are also lovely sculptures dotted around the grounds. We took a long walk all around to see the various installations.
The Café
There’s a really nice café on site. We visited mid-morning and it was quiet enough. We ordered pancakes with syrup and cream, a sausage roll and crisps, two juice boxes, a tea and a tub of Pringles — reasonably priced for what we got.
The staff were super friendly and the kids were delighted with it — the café is clean, bright, and has toilet and baby-changing facilities.
The range of food, from breakfast items through to lunch, was really good, and there are kids’ options too.
Final Verdict
Later that day I asked the kids what they’d enjoyed most about the visit.
Grace, 9 — “I loved the playground and the café, and the treasure hunt was fun.”
Fionn, 6 — “Playground, the Pringles, and the reading corner — I liked that.”
I loved being able to show them things I remembered from my grandparents’ farmhouse, and for them to learn just how different daily life used to be. It was a lovely morning out, and we’ll definitely be back.
It’s worth checking the museum’s own calendar of events for current opening times and free, family-friendly events happening throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life good for young kids?
Yes. Between the Treasure Hunt trail, the dress-up rail, the kids’ reading corner and the outdoor playground, there’s plenty to keep younger children engaged alongside the museum displays.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the National Museum of Ireland sites is generally free, but it’s best to check the museum’s official website for the most current information before you visit.
Is there somewhere to eat on site?
Yes, there’s a café on site serving breakfast and lunch options, including choices for kids.
Is the museum accessible for buggies?
The museum is set over multiple levels including a lift-accessible lower gallery, but families should check accessibility details directly with the museum ahead of a visit, especially if travelling with a buggy or wheelchair.
How long should we plan to spend there?
A relaxed family visit — including the galleries, treasure hunt, playground and a stop at the café — typically fills a good morning or afternoon out.
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