A new season begins at Strokestown Park, Roscommon as the historic estate unveils a new exhibition and the return of much-loved seasonal family events
Visitors are invited to rediscover the gardens, heritage and open spaces of the estate, home to the National Famine Museum, just as the parkland and Victorian Walled Gardens come to life for the new season.
The highlight for 2026 is the opening of a brand new exhibition within the historic Gazebo Tower, which welcomes visitors inside to discover its story and the lives connected to it. Built in the mid-18th century, the charming stone structure has stood overlooking the estate for generations and was originally designed as an architectural feature offering sweeping views across the Roscommon landscape.
Inside the Gazebo Tower: A New Immersive Exhibition
Climbing to the upstairs exhibition space, visitors can listen to voices from the past through immersive audio experiences, from residents, landlords and workers whose daily lives were intertwined with the tower and the adjoining walled garden. Historic photographs and displays reveal how the gardens and parkland have evolved over the centuries, offering a vivid glimpse into estate life and the wider social changes that shaped it.
For those unable to climb the stairs, the exhibition is also accessible digitally through an on-site QR code, allowing visitors to explore the audio stories, imagery and research behind the exhibition. * Dr. Emma O’Toole, Collections & Interpretation Manager at the Irish Heritage Trust, said: “The Gazebo Tower offers a fascinating lens through which to explore the layered histories of the estate, from the designed landscape of the 18th century to the people who lived and worked here across generations. Through voices, images and stories, the exhibition invites visitors to see the landscape in a new light.”
This exciting development comes as Strokestown Park celebrates recognition from CIE Tours, with an Award in Excellence acknowledging the quality of the visitor experience and also for its outstanding commitment to visitor care, accessibility and quality service.
Spring Events and Family-Friendly Activities Return
Visitors this spring will also be able to enjoy the much-anticipated Easter trail through the Victorian Walled Gardens. From 28 March to 12 April, families are invited to follow a trail of clues left by the mischievous bunnies of Strokestown Park, solving puzzles along the way before claiming a well-earned chocolate prize. The self-guided trail runs daily from 11 am to 4 pm and promises an egg-stra special day out for younger visitors exploring the gardens during the school holidays. The estate is proud to be a welcoming and inclusive destination for all visitors, including four-legged ones, and remains a dog-friendly location where every member of the family can enjoy a day outdoors together. Additional cultural and musical events take place throughout the season, including the Solas Quartet – Spring Tour taking place on Thursday, 9th April in the atmospheric surroundings of the Vaulted Stables.
General Manager of Strokestown Park, John O’Driscoll, said the new season represents an exciting moment for the estate and its visitors.
“We are delighted to welcome visitors to Strokestown Park this spring and particularly proud to open the Gazebo Tower to the public. It is a beautiful and historic structure that has watched over the estate for centuries, and this new exhibition allows visitors to connect with its story in a completely new way. Spring is a wonderful time to explore the gardens and parkland here, and with the Easter trail returning, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy.”
Preserving Heritage for Future Generations
Strokestown Park continues to develop new ways for visitors to engage with Irish heritage through its work with the Irish Heritage Trust, which cares for a number of significant historic properties around the country. Membership with the Trust offers unlimited access to participating heritage sites, alongside exclusive offers and events throughout the year.
Alongside these visitor developments, Strokestown Park is also progressing important conservation and sustainability work through its participation in the Joint Transition Fund, supporting ongoing efforts to protect the estate’s historic buildings, landscape and collections for future generations.
As spring arrives, the reopening of the Gazebo Tower, the vibrant gardens and the return of seasonal events make this the perfect time to experience the beauty, heritage and atmosphere of Strokestown Park.
The Gazebo tower exhibition has been made possible with the valued support of the Regional Museums Exhibition Grant Scheme from the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, alongside support from Westward Holdings, the owner of the historic property, which is cared for by the Irish Heritage Trust, an independent non-profit organisation.
For details, see https://strokestownpark.ie/
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