Farmleigh House and Gardens

Discovering Farmleigh

A Glimpse into History

Farmleigh House is a treasure of the Edwardian era, originally expanded in the 1880s by Edward Cecil Guinness — yes, of that Guinness family! He transformed a modest Georgian home into a striking mansion, blending various architectural styles to suit his refined tastes.

Today, Farmleigh serves as Ireland’s official state guesthouse, welcoming dignitaries from around the world. Although still a working government building, visitors can explore its rich history and lavish interiors on guided tours.

What You'll See

• The House: Admire the stunning library, home to a rare book collection, and stroll through opulent rooms furnished with priceless antiques and art.
• The Gardens: Wander through beautifully maintained Victorian and Edwardian gardens, a walled garden, a sunken garden, and peaceful lakeside paths.
• Farmleigh Gallery: Enjoy free exhibitions showcasing Irish and international art inside the estate’s gallery.
• The Working Farm: Look out for the herd of Kerry cows, an important part of Ireland’s farming heritage.

Visitor Information

• Location: Phoenix Park, Dublin 15 (about 5 km from Dublin city centre)
• Admission:
  • Grounds and Gallery: Free
  • House Guided Tour: €8 adult / €6 senior / €4 student or child / €20 family
• Opening Hours:
  • Estate: Daily, 10:00–18:00 (last admission 17:00)
  • Gallery: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00–17:00 (closed for lunch 13:00–14:00)
• Tip: The house may close at short notice for official events, so it's best to check farmleigh.ie or call ahead (+353 1 8155914).

Getting There

Easily reached by car, bus, bike, or even on foot, Farmleigh sits within the sprawling Phoenix Park. Once there, enjoy free parking, a cosy café, and picnic areas — perfect for a leisurely day out.

Fun Facts

• Farmleigh covers 78 acres, including gardens, woods, and meadows.
• It was purchased by the Irish government in 1999 to host visiting VIPs.
• The estate’s rare Kerry cattle are among the oldest breeds in Europe!