Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms, Province of Munster, Ireland

4IzzyKaz 5:00 PM May 14, 2022

Full day recommended
We didn't realise how big this place was so did arrived until 1pm, however we should have definitely gone earlier morning as there is so much to do and see. The house was nice, however there weren't much by way of people telling you much about it, it was self guided and the leaflet had only a small amount of information. The lady in the kitchen nearer the end of the tour was lovely though and provided some information. We didn't get to see the fill gardens just a small rock garden near the restaurant. We skipped the restaurant as there was a fairly large queue and no seating free so I would definitely suggest brining a picnic. When we first arrive at the house entrance there were some Januting car drivers right there. One approached us to ask if we want to go up to the waterfall, we initially stated we might later, he asked again and I advised we had no cash to which he offered to take us to the Abbey that had an atm or we could use Revolut. So we reluctantly agreed. While the man was pleasant and we had thought about going on one anyway it did take our time away from the farm which was our main reason to visit. Also being put on the spot we forgot to confirm the price beforehand, it turned out to be €60 for a short journey up to the waterfall and back the same way. It was myself, my mother and young daughter and on reflection I feel this was a little expensive, the journey while the views were pretty was brief and we actually felt a bit sorry for the horse also as she seemed tired and hot. The last visit was to the farm and it did not disappoint!! We just wish we had more time there. We will return again for the farm and gardens and walking to see the views, armed with a picnic and the ability to decline the jaunting car drivers perseverance for custom ?

5wrenvilletraveller 5:00 PM Jul 30, 2021

Well done Mucros.
Both attractions have been very successfully managed for these difficult times. As return visitors, we were delighted to see that the restrictions did not detract from the experience. Our group of two adults and a teenager enjoyed a self-guided tour of Mucros House which was enhanced by the presence of very informative guides in some of the rooms. Only one group was permitted in each room at a time, but we never felt rushed by the group after us or held up by those ahead of us. After a quick treat from the café (€16 for three drinks and fairly decent desserts) we headed to the farms. Again this was managed very well. The Bean an Tí (a guide in the guise of ‘the woman of the house’) in each farm house ensured that only one group entered each building at a time. These ladies were very informative and friendly, as were the blacksmith and school master we also met. While we had seen the forge on previous visits this was the first time we saw it in action. All three of us were enthralled by this. Highlights of the day included the forge and the baby donkeys! A family ticket which covered both attractions cost us €28. It was busy enough but people respected the restrictions (social distancing throughout, masks indoors and plenty of sanitising stations) and we felt safe at all times.