Farmleigh House & Estate — Attraction in Fingal

Farmleigh is a hidden wonder in the corner of Dublin's Phoenix Park, just up at the Castle knock end of Chesterfield Avenue that runs through the centre of the park. Formerly in the Guinness family, it is now part of the governments properties where they host dignitaries etc. Theres a large gardens and farm land that is free to walk around. An excellent collection of trees, formal gardens, cottage garden and lake walk are all there to be enjoyed. Regular music features on Sunday afternoon with everything from Jazz, blues and modern tunes. A coffee shop serving hot and cold snacks looks out over the grounds and lake. All diets catered for. Ample safe grounds for strolling and cycling and suitable for all ages groups. Free car parking with ample disability spaces, toilets and changing facilities all available.

There's a small art gallery and regular markets with thematic content e.g Asian culture etc. A herd of traditional Irish Kerry cows can be seen with sheep and llamas. A tour of the house can be taken for a small fee. This will be guided and gives the historic background of the grand house. Whether a solo visit, with friends or family, Farmleigh is a great...

So glad we went for a house tour. It was privately owned until 1999, now is still used by Government for meetings, lunches and place to stay for visiting dignitaries (on those days tours are limited or cancelled). Fabulous library with oldest book from 1285! Old bibles, first edition of Ulyssess, book about farting... Few secrets, hidden door, or fake book shelf hiding stone stairs to basement vault. Tricky chairs that will pin you down, until someone lifts the lever at the back. Supper interesting history of Guiness family, the brewers branch, who loved Irish traditional music, collecting carriages and bringing interesting items and trends to Ireland.. like a window with stunning view above the...fireplace! Ceiling in a study was painted when one of residents got sick and had to spend alot of time in bed in that room. Swifts and blues skies. Stunning (and funny) tapestries, art, various collections.... I'd recommend booking tickets in advance, then you have to go to the desk in courtyard to check in, and go back to front of the house for tour. No big backpacks (you can leave them at the desk), and no food /...

I recently visited Farmleigh Estate, and while the estate itself is beautiful, my experience was completely ruined by the tour guide. From the moment the tour started, she was incredibly fussy with rules, to the point of being downright condescending. It felt like she took pleasure in making everyone feel uneasy and unwelcome.

I understand that there are rules to follow, but her enforcement of these rules was overly strict and demanding. She would constantly interrupt to reprimand people for the smallest things, like standing an inch too close to a display or whispering to one another. Her tone was harsh and patronizing, which made the whole group uncomfortable.

Instead of enjoying the rich history and beauty of Farmleigh, we were all on edge, worried about what minor infraction we might be scolded for next. It's such a shame because the estate is a lovely place to visit, but this guide's awful attitude cast a dark cloud over the entire experience. I would not recommend the tour if she is your guide. What an...