Visit the National Museum of Ireland to escape the winter chill and experience a season of discovery and learning.
From engaging exhibitions to immersive tours, the Museum brings history to life in inspiring and captivating ways.
Check out our highlight exhibitions and events especially designed for adults at our three Museum locations in Dublin and Mayo. Admission is free!
1. Discover the captivating influence of Irish bees on our culture and environment
Did you know there are more than 100 different bee species in Ireland, but only one that makes honey? Or that bees were so important throughout Irish history, they even have their own patron saint? Join us in celebrating the magic of Ireland’s bees, their vital role in nature, and the special bond they share with us.
EXHIBITION | The Murmur of Bees
National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
2. Learn about the development of art in Ireland from the Stone Age to Early Medieval Ireland
Throughout the winter months, take 'The History of Art in Ireland' tour and see megalithic art from the Stone Age on the replica passage tomb, discover the techniques in gold of Bronze Age metalworkers on the lunulae and sun discs, learn about the influence of the Iron Age art style, La Tène, and its impact into Early Medieval Ireland on objects including the Ardagh Chalice and the 'Tara' Brooch.
TOUR | The History of Art in Ireland
National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
3. See hurling balls made from matted cow hair dating back to the 15th century
Discover objects dating from the 15th century to the present day, illustrating the influence of the GAA through the lens of social history, design and popular culture.
EXHIBITION | GAA: People, Objects & Stories
National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
4. Explore the professionalisation of nursing and midwifery in poor-law unions from 1882 to 1922.
On Sunday, November 17, join registered nurse, midwife, and public health nurse Lisa McGeeney as she explores how the professional development of nursing and midwifery in the 19th century was reflected in the poor-law unions between 1882 and 1922. Booking is required.
TALK | Nursing and Midwifery in the Poor-Law Unions
National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
5. Celebrate the Winter Solstice at the National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology
Discover how ancient monuments and archaeological objects are linked to celestial events. Learn how passage tombs, such as Newgrange, are aligned to the Winter Solstice. Take a look at objects found in Ireland’s tombs and find out how Bronze Age objects, such as lunulae and sun discs, are linked to solar symbols.
TOUR | Let the Sun Shine Winter Solstice Tour
National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology, Kildare Street, Dublin 2
6. Take a lunchtime tour for Irish Design Week
Join us for a captivating journey through Irish design and craftsmanship during Irish Design Week on Friday, 1 November at 1 pm. Explore the rich history of Irish design through various objects that showcase the skill and vision of renowned makers such as John ffrench, Harry Clarke, and the Dun Emer Guild. No booking is required.
TOUR | The Making of Beautiful Things: Irish Design in the Museum
National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7
7. Examine exquisite lace samples and see a lacemaking demonstration
Join members of the Headford Lace Project for a demonstration of traditional lacemaking, a craft dating back to c1766, now recognized in the National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
As part of the exhibition Mary Anne Fanning: Remembering our Community Midwives, there will be an illustrated presentation on the Headford Lace Project, showcasing how lace decorates special occasion garments. View items like lace bonnets and a christening gown, and see a newly adapted ceremonial baby bonnet—made for the first time in over 100 years.
DEMONSTRATION | Bobbin Lace
National Museum of Ireland - Country Life, Turlough Park, Castlebar, Co Mayo
8. See a 10th-century woman’s leather shoe or a decorated pin of a 11th-century bishop from Glendalough
Glendalough: Power, Prayer and Pilgrimage features artifacts never see before that provide incredible insight into the lives of both humble and powerful pilgrims who traveled to this holy site. Some of these objects were chance discoveries while others came from carefully planned archaeological investigations. From a tenth century woman’s leather shoe lost in a Glendalough bog to the decorated pin of an eleventh century bishop praying on the windswept mountainside.
EXHIBITION | Glendalough: Power, Prayer and Pilgrimage
National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology, Kildare Street, Dubin 7
9. Reconnect with Irish history with a tour at Collins Barracks
This November, the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks offers a rich lineup of free guided tours delving into Irish history and culture. Highlights include explorations of the revolutionary era, the legacy of Irish women’s fashion, the impact of World War I on Irish soldiers, and the innovative designs of Eileen Gray. Special tours for Armistice Day and Irish Design Week also feature. Tours start at reception, and while no booking is required, spaces are limited.
TOURS | November tours at Collins Barracks
National Museum of Ireland - Decorative Arts & History, Collins Barracks, Benburb Street, Dublin 7