The Office of Public Works (OPW) has announced free admission to more than 50 heritage sites this Saturday, 15th August, to mark the opening weekend of National Heritage Week 2026.
The theme for this year’s National Heritage Week is ‘Heritage at Risk’, encouraging visitors to reflect on the aspects of our heritage that are vulnerable or under threat.
To mark Heritage Week, the OPW will once again present an extensive programme of events and activities at heritage sites nationwide:
Errigal Handweaver, Siobhán Ní Ghallchóir will be on site in Donegal Castle on 17th August giving visitors an opportunity to learn about basic weaving and yarn processing. The workshop includes introduction to the history of weaving in Donegal, benefits of using wool and weaving a small coaster on a small frame loom. Everyone takes home their work.
Discover the world of the Vikings at the historic grounds of Kells Priory. Little diggers will carefully excavate the remains of a Viking house, unearth authentic replica artefacts over 1,000 years old, and learn about Viking life and culture directly from real archaeologists.
A traditional willow basket- making workshop will take place on Scattery Island, Co Clare, using locally grown willow, given by craftsperson Deirdre Hetherington, Doonbeg in the island’s recently renovated cottages.
Ferns Castle, Co Wexford will host a craft fair on 15 August. This event shines a spotlight on Ireland’s traditional crafts — living skills and knowledge that are precious yet vulnerable, and worth protecting for future generation.
An Antiquities Roadshow at Reginald’s Tower invites visitors to hear archaeologist Thomas Desmond share stories from over 35 years of excavations and bring along objects for expert identification. Reginald’s Tower will also play host to a talk on the History of the Limerick to Tralee Railway Line. The site will also offer a special guided tour in German, revealing the rich Viking and medieval history of Waterford’s iconic landmark.
Heritage Talks on Dunmore Cave will give visitors the opportunity to discover the fascinating history, geology and Viking connections of one of Ireland’s most significant cave systems.
There will be medieval longbow demonstrations at Athenry Castle which will bring medieval warfare to life through live demonstrations, talks and hands-on archery activities.
A storytelling tour of the River Shannon at Portumna Castle will see storyteller Conni Dawson bring the myths and legends of Ireland’s great river to life through story, song and harp music.
Ennis Friary will host a guided tour exploring the centuries-long history of one of Ennis’s most important historic sites, from Franciscan friary to parish church.
“The OPW’s decision to offer free admission to its fee-paying heritage sites on Saturday, 15 August, is a wonderful way to mark the opening weekend of Heritage Week and to encourage more people to discover and engage with Ireland’s remarkable heritage,” Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive, The Heritage Council said.
TOURS ‘AS GAEILGE’
The Office of Public Works (OPW) has also announced a series of tours ‘as Gaeilge’ at various OPW locations nationwide as part of National Heritage Week. This initiative celebrates the Irish language, offering visitors a unique experience of Ireland’s built heritage.
Visitors will have the opportunity to join in free Irish language tours at OPW locations, guided by knowledgeable staff who will share interesting insights and stories in our native language. From historical buildings to breath-taking locations, these tours offer a valuable cultural experience for all who attend. Participating locations include locally at Anne’s Grove Gardens in Castletownroche (Aug 16th, 2pm-3pm) and in Doneraile Court and Estate (Aug 22nd 2pm-3pm).
Visit https://heritageireland.ie/heritage-week-2026/ for a full list of 2026 events at OPW heritage sites.
