Strokestown Park | National Famine Museum — Attraction in County Roscommon

The Park's House has been opened after an extensive refurbishment and it's spectacular.

We had the privilege to attend a private tour.

A Captivating Evening of Victorian Photography at Strokestown House:

Tonight, history and photography enthusiasts were transported back in time at Strokestown House. We had the privilege to attend a mesmerizing Victorian photography lecture delivered by esteemed photography expert, William Fagan. The grandeur of the historical estate served as a fitting backdrop for an evening dedicated to exploring the early days of photography.

In a dimly lit hall adorned with period-appropriate decor, attendees gathered in eager anticipation. William Fagan, renowned for his deep knowledge of 19th-century photography techniques, took the stage to enlighten the audience about the fascinating world of daguerreotypes, calotypes, and other pioneering photographic methods.

With eloquence and passion, Fagan delved into the science behind capturing images on delicate glass plates and textured paper. His anecdotes about the challenges faced by early photographers added depth to the narrative, making the journey into the past even more vivid.

As Fagan's lecture concluded, the excitement only grew. Attendees were given the unique opportunity to explore a carefully curated museum exhibit. Within the exhibit's confines lay a treasure trove of antique cameras, intricately designed glass plates, and mesmerizing black-and-white photographs that captured a bygone era.

The evolution of photography, from the rudimentary to the refined, was beautifully displayed, showcasing the progression from the first hesitant steps to the more advanced techniques that laid the groundwork for modern photography.

The highlight of the museum visit was undoubtedly Mr. Mahon's personal collection of photographs and equipment, some of which were rare and seldom seen. These visual time capsules transported visitors to a world long past, where they could catch a glimpse of the faces, places, and moments that shaped history.

The combination of both Fagan's expertise and the exquisite artifacts on display left attendees with a profound appreciation for the pioneers of photography and their invaluable contributions to the art form.

As the evening concluded and attendees left Strokestown House, they carried with them not only newfound knowledge but also a sense of connection to the past. The Victorian photography lecture and museum visit had offered a window into a world that once was, all the while highlighting the importance of preserving and cherishing our visual heritage.

The event truly stood as a testament to the enduring power of photography and history to captivate and inspire across generations.

I'm still buzzing. 🙂

Thanks to Jonathan Cassidy for the heads up.

#victorianphotography

The fairy woodland walk and Victorian Gardens are a treat too.

The House now also boasts a cafe and gift shop with the entrance akin to that of a five star hotel. The staff are courteous, knowledgeable and extremely accommodating for families.

Can't wait to go back again. Thanks also so much to our favourite curator and...

I have wanted to visit Strokestown Park for many years and finally go to do so recently. Strokestown offers three attractions in a single location, Strokestown House, gardens and the Irish Famine Museum. We planned our trip to get there in time for the guided tour of the house (Only way to see inside) with tours daily at 12, 2.30 & 4pm. There is also a Café for a bit to eat.

The house and the history behind it is fascinating. The story of how it was acquired by local man Jim Callery from the former landlords the Mahon family. The house to Jim Callery’s surprise was sold with its contents pretty much intact. This is what makes the visit so special, it is like stepping back in time. Passing through the rooms everything looks just as you would expect to find if someone was living there today. This a a real piece of history and a must see if you are in the area.

The gardens like the house show their age, I think this adds to the charm. I have read comments about how they should be pristine and well kept. I do not agree, it fits the character of the Park and realistically you would have to employ an army of gardeners to maintain the site. Wandering through the gardens you can feel the past at every turn.

The Famine museum reflects on a major part of Irish history and this is what put Strokestown Park on my to visit list a few years ago. You need some time if you want to take the journey through Irish history and see all the exhibits. Yes there is a lot of reading and I have read comments about how you can stay at home and do the same online, but it is not the same. I wished we had had more time to take it all in. Well worth a visit and even though I know my Irish history quite well, I still learned a lot.

The Café was fantastic to stop and relax for a while. Food was good and even thought it was lunchtime there was lots of seating. The staff in Strokestown Park where welcoming and our guide John, on the tour of the house very informative. We spent about 3 hours there and would have spent more if we had the time. The price at €13.50 represented good value and worth it if you take the time to...

We were on our way back from Knock after visiting family, who recommended the garden walk of Strokestown house to break our long drive back to Dublin.

On their advertisement page I had a quick look at the first lot of reviews who all recommend the house and famine museum tour and lunch afterwards in the cafe.

So then I skipped to the "Parking & Garden Access"

"There is ample free parking for cars and coaches at Strokestown Park House and the National Famine Museum and coach groups are very welcome. We also offer dedicated parking spaces for holders of disabled parking permits. Strokestown Park Gardens are open Monday-Sunday, 10.00 am – 5.45 pm." At this point I thought it was free to enter the garden.

So on arrival at the reception we were looking forward to our garden walk and lunch, where I asked about entry to the garden, was politely asked would I like to combine it with a house or famine tour or both I said we were only here for a walk in the garden, I was then surprised to hear the lady say it was €12-, which made me think is it worth it, I turned to my wife repeating the price to her, who said yes. At the same time the receptionist said it was €12- each. Where I replied again we only wanted to walk the garden, Her reply was it was the best price she could offer us, which put a nail in the coffin at the thought of us doing the walk.

I suppose it serves me right for not reading ALL THE INFORMATION ABOUT A VISIT TO THE HOUSE AND GARDENS including all the different entry prices.

The management of the property should look into a separate entrance and price for the Garden grounds itself, as not everyone is interested in houses or history, and after reading more reviews here, I see others complained about the same things as I.

10am...