OPW launches new Cultural Programme at Castletown House

Castletown House has a long history of hosting cultural events. The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to continue in this tradition. Castletown House and Parklands is fully open for 2026 and we have an exciting new cultural programme, featuring musical performances, talks and exhibitions to share with visitors.

The programme includes expert-led talks on Irish history and architecture, art exhibitions featuring both contemporary and historical works and a summer concert series spanning classical and traditional music. Events are designed to engage visitors of all ages encouraging community participation and cultural appreciation.

Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin “Boxer” Moran, said ‘I am delighted to announce a new cultural programme at Castletown House and Parkland. These events are designed to engage visitors of all ages. Highlights include a special concert by the Royal Irish Academy of Music, performances by the acclaimed Beartla Ó Flatharta Céilí Band and an illustrated lecture by historian Adrian Tinniswood. I encourage everyone to come and enjoy these events over the coming months”.

A focal point of the cultural programme is the ‘Special concert by the Royal Irish Academy of Music’ (RIAM), Ireland’s oldest music conservatoire. Held in the atmospheric Hunting Room, this event offers audiences an evening of compelling music-making, full of energy and individuality. The collaboration between RIAM and Castletown House highlights the importance of arts partnerships in nurturing Ireland’s musical heritage and engaging new audiences.

Visitors can enjoy an illustrated lecture by historian Adrian Tinniswood. ‘The Guinness Family Homes’ lecture explores the architectural legacy and social history of the Guinness family. Properties discussed include Farmleigh House, Ashford Castle, Elveden Hall among others. The lecture provides historical context for the new Netflix series "House of Guinness." This event offers visitors a unique perspective on the connections between architecture, social history and popular culture.

The Beartla Ó Flatharta Céilí Band, recognised for their dedication to Irish traditional music, will feature in the programme with an exciting and vibrant sound that has enthralled audiences across Ireland and abroad. The Senior All-Ireland céilí band champions continue to preserve and promote the rich heritage of Irish traditional music, delighting audiences and inspiring future generations of musicians. The opportunity to hear them live in concert is one not to be missed.

Head of Heritage Services and Capital Works Delivery, Rosemary Collier stated, “The Cultural Programme this summer at Castletown House and Estate offers an exciting variety of events for all generations. We invite visitors to come and experience this showcase of Ireland’s history, culture and connection that celebrates Castletown’s distinctive charm.”

The cultural programme also includes guided tours, art exhibitions and performances by local artists. These events are designed to bring together a compelling blend of music and history, making Castletown House and Parklands a cultural destination throughout the summer months.

For more information and a full list of events, please see www.heritageireland.ie. Tickets for the talks and concerts can be purchased at the link below - eventbrite/opw/castletown.

NOTES:

OPW spokespersons are available for interview upon request. Please contact pressoffice@opw.ie for more information and to arrange an interview.

Follow us on Twitter @opwireland

Follow us on Facebook @opwireland

Follow us on Instagram @opwireland

Follow us on LinkedIn @Office of Public Works

The Office of Public Works (OPW)

The OPW provides accommodation for Government Services and manages much of the State’s property portfolio.

It cares for 780 heritage sites, including national monuments, historic parks, gardens and buildings. It is the Government’s principal engineering agency, providing an engineering service to the Flood Risk Management and Estate Portfolio Management functions of the OPW as well as to other Government Departments.