Experience 
The Workhouse

Explore exhibitions, local crafts, walking trails and family activities across our historic site.

JOURNEY THROUGH HISTORY

The Famine Exhibition

A self-guided audio tour that tells the story of The Workhouse from its construction to the present day. Learn about life here during the famine, hear Wee Hannah Herrity’s story and finish with a short film of Dunfanaghy from the 1930s to the 1960s.

Dunfanaghy HISTORIC Trail

The Heritage Trail

The Dunfanaghy Heritage Trail is a historic walking route with ten audio points beginning at The Workhouse. Audio tracks last three to five minutes and are available in Gaeilge and English. The free app is available for Apple and Android.

Cosy up with a Coffee

The Coffee Shop

Relax in the original reception building with tea, coffee and sweet bakes. Coffee is supplied by The Hatter Coffee Co. Free Wifi is available, along with second-hand books that support the upkeep of the playpark. Closing time is 4pm daily.

Irish Crafts and Gifts

The Craft Shop

The Craft Shop is the central hub of The Workhouse and features prints, delftware, knitwear, throws, food items and other products from Irish makers. You will also find books on Irish history, language and a wide range of children’s books.

THIRTY-SEAT SCREEN

Book a Cinema

A cosy thirty-seat cinema available for private hire, screenings, parties and community events. The projector supports DVDs and HDMI connections. For rental information contact managerdunfanaghyworkhouse@gmail.com or call 074 9136540.

SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

Workhouse Playpark

Open year round, the playpark offers equipment for all ages with seating areas for families. Donations at the gate and proceeds from second-hand book sales support its upkeep.

plan your trip

Visitor Information

The Workhouse sits along the Wild Atlantic Way on the N56, making it an ideal stop for visitors staying in or passing through Dunfanaghy. As a Fáilte Ireland Tourist Information Point, our team can guide you with recommendations for families, couples, solo travellers and groups. We provide information about local attractions, places to eat, walking trails, rainy-day activities and our own Famine Exhibition.2“We were made very welcome and the staff were amazing. Lovely tea shop attached with good food and atmosphere, a great little gift shop with Irish treasure to buy. 10 out of 10 from me and well worth a visit.”

Open 10.00am to 5.00pm from March to December. Closed January to March except for pre-arranged bookings. The Café and Famine Exhibition close daily at 4pm.

beyond the workhouse

Tourist Information

As a Fáilte Ireland Tourist Information Point, we offer guidance on what to see and do across the region. Whether you need advice on local attractions, activities or places to stay and eat, our staff are here to help.

You can also explore our Fáilte Ireland Kiosk located inside the Craft Shop for up-to-date local information.