Derrynane House
The Basics
Visitors to Derrynane House can take a self-guided tour of the interior, exploring the dining room, study, drawing room, library, and chapel. Also on display is the gilded chariot that carried O’Connell through Dublin following his release from Richmond Bridewell prison in 1844. The house is often visited as part of Ring of Kerry tours, which stop at other sights along the scenic route, such as Ballycarbery Castle, Valentia Island, and Cahergall and Leacanabuaile forts.
Things to Know Before You Go
Derrynane House is a must-see for Irish history buffs and families, who will enjoy the trails in the surrounding parkland.
Guided tours for groups of up to 25 people are available.
A tearoom at the house is open from Easter through September.
Derrynane House is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Derrynane House sits on the Kerry coast, about a 5-minute drive from the village of Caherdaniel. Caherdaniel is on the Ring of Kerry, which circumnavigates the Iveragh Peninsula. There is visitor parking available. If you aren’t driving, it’s best to visit Derrynane as part of a tour that includes round-trip transport.
When to Get There
The best time to visit Derrynane House is in summer, when mild weather allows visitors to make the most of the walking trails on the grounds. The estate closes for much of winter, usually from mid-December to mid-March.
Exploring Derrynane National Historic Park
The gardens and parklands surrounding Derrynane House are crisscrossed with trails. Follow woodland paths leading down to the beach and look for rare subtropical plant species, such as ferns and giant rhubarb, which manage to thrive here thanks to the warming influence of the Gulf Stream. Families can pick up a map of the Derrynane Fairy Trail in the on-site tearoom and set out in search of the small fairy hideaways that are scattered around the woods.
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