For Children
While a historic house can sometimes be considered a little dull for the little ones, this is not the case for Westport House!
The Browne family has always held children near and dear to their hearts (as is evidenced by the fun of the Pirate Adventure Park) and no more so than in Westport House itself.
While the grown-ups will enjoy the beauty of the entire House, children will come into their own in the basement area. Here they can enjoy the dungeons – which now host an installation depicting Grace O’Malley’s maritime lifestyle – an ageless favourite of children since the house opened in the 60’s. They won’t be able to pass the funny mirrors which provide entertainment for big and small kids alike. Our antique coin-operated puppet show will take you back in time. And the wine cellar hosts a bunch of illusions and tricks to keep everyone entertained.
We have a 30 minute tour on Grace O’Malley Pirate Queen which is specifically suited to and targeted at families with children under 12 years. (Click here for current times of tours) Children are regaled with stories of the Pirate Queen of Connaught, her relationship to Westport House and the Browne family and stories of her life on the high seas. Who knows, many of the grown ups may enjoy this part too! The tour finishes up in the dungeons of the house which as legend has it, are the dungeons from Grace O’Malley’s 16th century castle upon which the House is built.
In the afternoons during high season, we also offer Paint Your Own Pottery in the basement where the whole family can all enjoy painting a mug, plate or other keepsake of your trip to Westport House (priced additionally).
At certain times of the year, the House transforms for the little people! During Halloween mid-term break, the house is transformed into a not-too-scary Haunted House offering a range of family-friendly workshops including Jack O’Lantern Carving, Dance Workshops and storytime with the white witch. And likewise, for the holiday season, we run a Winter Wonderland event primarily in the House which decorates the house in Christmas cheer, provides a stunning Santa’s Grotto complete with elves with excellent gifts, more family workshops in the Elves Workshop and Little Drummer Boys workshop and finally, the ever popular Storytime with Mrs. Claus.
Lots to entertain the little ones too!
Designs ]