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History Talks, Guided Tours & Experiences

Join one of our knowledgeable and friendly Abbey Guides on one of their complimentary daily history talks at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, and 3pm to hear the story from the Abbey’s beginnings in the 1840’s as a romantic gift to becoming home to the Benedictine Community in 1920. Our Guides rich interest in history and local knowledge will allow visitors to fully engage with Kylemore’s importance locally, nationally and internationally throughout the generations and people who called it home.
Meet at the Guides desk of the Gallery Saloon to sign up for talks.     

History Hunter Map in hand, children are encouraged to join our history talks and to ask our Guides any questions about life in the castle and the 9 Henry children and later schoolgirls who were at home in Kylemore.

History Talks of the Abbey & Tour of the Gardens

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Our guides have an in-depth knowledge of the History of the Kylemore Estate and those who have made their home there over the years. Complimentary talks take place on the front terrace of the Abbey and you guide will walk you to the neo-Gothic Church, please meet at the Abbey terrace to take part in the Talk at the time below.

Talks are available each day at 11:0 am, 12 pm, 15:00 pm, & 16.00 pm .


The History Talk will take approx. 40 minutes.

Specialty Talks

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New for 2021 is a number of specialty talks giving visitors even greater insight into the history of Kylemore. See events page (link) for the daily schedule. Specialty talks include:

  • Signature Talks - Focusing on their own particular area of interest, each of our History Guides will be giving in depth talks on a range of topics from Victorian Interiors to Local traditions and everything in between.
  • Life in the Castle – A very special talk for the younger family members will see our guides take visitors though what life was like for Victorian children. This talk includes some interesting props that will keep you talking!
  • Mindfulness Walks – Join a guided walk through the Kylemore Woodland. Listen to the streams, the wind through the trees, breath in the cool, fresh air, and for a brief period allow yourself become enveloped in nature as you embrace a slower pace of life.

Group & Private Tours

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Group Tours

Groups can book a private tour of the Abbey or the Abbey and Gothic Church, during normal opening hours. An additional charge applies for private tours.
Please contact us for details and to make a group booking.

Contact bookings@kylemoreabbey.com
Please note group tours depend on guide availability.

Private Tours

Groups are invited to pre-book a private tour of the garden, at any time of the year, during normal opening hours. Advance booking is essential to ensure guide availability.
Please contact us for details and to make a group booking.
Contact bookings@kylemoretabbey.com