Derrynane House and National Park in Caherdaniel, Co Kerry.Ireland's Content Pool
'Discover Derrynane,' a weekend festival celebrating the natural and cultural heritage of Derrynane National Historic Park in Co Kerry, returns this weekend, June 6 - 8, Ireland's Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced.
Curated, programmed, and funded by the OPW, the Discover Derrynane festival offers a fun-filled programme of free activities, walks, talks, and tours for all ages.
The festival kicks off on Friday afternoon, June 6, with a tour of the plant collection in the gardens led by OPW foreman Chris Maguire.
Visitors can expect a series of exciting events including music performances, astronomy sessions, food tours, and much more, with something to capture the interest and imagination for everyone.
In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O’ Connell, a range of walks and talks take place over the weekend discussing the life ‘The Liberator’.
Dr. Connie Kelleher, Senior Archaeologist, provides an insight into the world of Daniel O’Connell and his maritime connections, while Professor Maurice Bric discusses the ‘The Worlds of Derrynane’, focusing on the home of the O’Connells.
Daniel O'Connell. (Getty Images)
Elsewhere, Niall Hogan, the Derrynane Herbalist, takes visitors on a wild plant medicine walk along the woodlands. Many of the plants and trees of the surrounding woodlands possess potent medicinal properties - learn how all four seasons produce plants of therapeutic value.
Visitors can try their hand at wet felting at the Wise Wool workshop or delve into the world of photography with Patrick and Theresa Kavanagh.
For music lovers, join Peter Mullarkey on his musical heritage trail or soak up the sounds of Anna Mieke and Brian McGloin.
On the subject of marine dwellers, Natahsa Howard from Sea Synergy explores the rock pools at Derrynane and uncovers the secret of many creatures living along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
Derrynane House and National Park, Caherdaniel, Co Kerry. (Ireland's Content Pool)
Kevin “Boxer” Moran, Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, said he was delighted to announce the return of the 'Discovery Derrynane' family festival.
"The action-packed programme has something for everyone to enjoy, from informative talks and walks to sea safaris to music," Moran said.
"There are so many opportunities to explore nature and marine life and take part in some superb activities.
"The festival also provides a wonderful opportunity to explore the spectacular landscape and culture of Derrynane.
"Why not come down and explore Derynane and all that is on offer across the weekend?”
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic park, learn about the local heritage, and enjoy a range of family-friendly experiences.
You can view the full lineup of events for Discover Derrynane 2025 here.
About Derrynane House and National Historic Park
Derrynane House, located 3.5km from Caherdaniel, Co Kerry, is the family home of Daniel O'Connell, which is now a museum dedicated to the life of O'Connell and his great achievements.
Derrynane was transferred to the State in 1964, and mostof Daniel O’Connell’s historic demesne, to which he was much attached, now forms Derrynane National Historic Park.
Spanning 300 acres (120 hectares), the park boasts beautiful gardens, extensive coastline and beaches, natural oak woodland, and archaeological sites, and is under the care of the OPW.
Derrynane National Historic Park, which is on Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way route, has 1.5km of shoreline with sand dunes and beaches, including a Blue Flag beach. There are a variety of trails throughout the grounds, including a section of the Kerry Way, a Mass Path, and a seashore nature trail.
Further information and opening times are available on HeritageIreland.ie.