Heritage sites open for summer season
Locals and visitors alike are invited to “step into our story” as a number of the national landmarks across Tipperary that the OPW holds in trust for the nation reopen for the season.
Will you step inside Ormond Castle, built by in 1565 by Thomas, 10th Earl of Ormond, one of the most powerful Irish lords ever, in honour of his distant cousin Queen Elizabeth?
Or maybe Swiss Cottage, an idyllic countryside retreat near Cahir Castle, built by Richard Butler, after his fairytale rise from rags to riches? Or the Main Guard the courthouse with centuries of history under its arches in Clonmel?
Across the country, 70 historical and heritage sites are open for you to explore. All you have to do is step inside.
Visitors will be able to enjoy more than 6,000 years of history at one of our many ancient and enchanting sites across Ireland and in Tipperary, including the Famine Warhouse, Holycross Abbey and the Rock of Cashel.
Rosemary Collier, Head of Heritage Services and Capital Works Delivery with the OPW, said: “We are thrilled to reopen a number of the OPW’s heritage sites in Tipperary and keep them open for a longer season.
“The OPW is committed to the preservation of Ireland’s heritage and recently completed major restoration works at Ormond Castle as part of Phase 1 of the Tourism Capital Investment Programme.”
On the first Wednesday of every month, visitors and families can enjoy free admission to Ormond Castle and Swiss Cottage.
The OPW Heritage Card also offers visitors unlimited access to the over 45 historic sites and visitor attractions for a year, offering great savings and value for money to anyone wanting to learn about Ireland’s cultural heritage.
The most recently compiled figures showed almost 13 million visitors stepped through the doors of OPW heritage sites in 2021. The heritage estate is growing in importance and scale of activity, with the OPW investing significantly in the protection and preservation of Ireland’s heritage site, with its team of dedicated experts.