Donaghmore Famine Workhouse & Agricultural Museum

Experience the original 19th-century Workhouse, explore the Agricultural Museum’s fascinating collection, and uncover the lives of families who once lived within these walls.

Why Visit Donaghmore Workhouse?

Unlike other heritage centres, Donaghmore is told through the voices of local guides. Explore the workhouse, see historic agricultural machinery and household items in one unforgettable experience.

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Guided Tours

Unlike other heritage centres, Donaghmore Workhouse exists to preserve and share its story so that it will never be forgotten. The Museum is dedicated to presenting an authentic account of the Irish Famine and the rural way of life during that period.

We welcome school groups for interactive educational tours that align with the curriculum. Students will engage with Ireland’s famine history in a way that is immersive, thought-provoking, and memorable.

Education & Schools

Private Hire & Events

Unique spaces for meetings, conferences, and gatherings. Beyond history, Donaghmore Workhouse offers private hire for conferences, community events and gatherings.

Daniel R., Germany

Claire M., Cork

Thomas L., UK

Siobhán O’Connor, Teacher

Patrick & Anne, USA

Mary K., Dublin

    
 
 
       Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   AnnE 
 
 
 
 Verified Trevor is a great guide and he made the visit very interesting for us.
Trevor gave us an amazing experience. He had a lot of stories to tell which made it very interesting! Although it was only the 4 of us, he gave all attention and time and answered all of our questions.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   jl 
 
 
 
 Verified A piece of forgotten Irish history
Wow, what an experience that totally exceeded our expectations. We called in to the museum as just happened to be passing by on a road trip through the Midlands. Despite being Irish we both didn't know anything about Irish famine workhouses in general or the one at Donaghmore. After a 1.5hr tour with the excellent tour guide, Sean, we have been educated as to this piece of Irish history that is somewhat forgotten. Sean was obviously very knowledgeable about Donaghmore and held our attention throughout and was very generous with his time. A small campervan stop could attract and educate more people who are passing to learn more about what happened to people here. Laois County Council should be doing more to retain this heritage.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Nora S 
 
 
 
 Verified Great tour, free parking and great value
We really enjoyed the tour given by Edna, another sad part of our history and would recommend all to visit. Our hearts ached when we visited the small plot, which so many of our poor, sick and homeless where buried in. Many thanks to all who have helped keep this part of our history alive and to tell their story.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Padraig O 
 
 
 
 Verified Excellent Tour
Absolutely enjoyed the guided tour with Sean,very knowledgeable, informative tour ,easy pace .. admission is great value .. for a experience of Irish history highly recommended. Padraig & Geraldine
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Catherine W 
 
 
 
 Verified Amazing historical site
We visited Donaghmore museum/workhouse with 2 young children, fantastic experience, we arrived a bit on the late side and I have never been made feel so welcome in any museum we visited before. Excellent with the kids, Trevor was a wealth of knowledge and you could sense his love of what he does! He offered his time with no pressure on us as a family, we were enthralled at the history, the uniqueness and the sense of dedication and pride taken to ensure that our ancestors are not forgotten, highly recommended a visit! Thank you Donaghmore! Loved every minute!
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   fifitot 
 
 
 
 Verified Great bit of history
We visited the museum. The gentleman in the office showed us around. For guided tour best ringing first. We walked around some of the museum part ourselves that the gentleman showed us other parts also he was very informative of the museum , friendly and chatty. We had a great time and really enjoyed our time there.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   barbjag 
 
 
 
 Verified Famine Workhouse Guide, Michael Creagh was wonderful
We went to the Famine Museum and were so lucky to have Michael as our guide. He was passionate, knowledgable and brought the sad history to life. There are not many existing workhouses in Ireland, and it is a story that continues to need to be shared, so many thanks to the Council, and especially Michael for keeping the story alive. And Michael turned the sad story into one of hope, as he shared a song, The Isle of Hope, which he sang to us, and told us the story of the first immigrant to Ellis Island, Annie Moore. We are so grateful to have had this experience.
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Aisling B 
 
 
 
 Verified Well worth a visit
Tour was fabulous. Enda was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable and friendly! Such good value for money. Well worth a visit for anyone in the Midlands
  
 
      Posted on Tripadvisor  
   
   Stephen B 
 
 
 
 Verified A must visit
Great visit, Irish history at it's best and Michael is full of history and is very passionate about the place, what happened here should never be forgotten, a must visit for anyone interested in Irish history.