Russborough House – Not Just a Museum

Russborough House Ireland in County Wicklow: A Treasure Trove of Art and History

Russborough House, located near the Blessington Lakes in County Wicklow, is a masterpiece of Palladian architecture, designed by Richard Cassels for Joseph Leeson, 1st Earl of Milltown.
The house is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful in Ireland, and it is a significant example of 18th-century Irish architecture.
It is situated on a 200-acre estate, and visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding countryside while exploring the house’s many features.

The House

Russborough House has three floors and is made of granite, with many of its original features still intact, such as the Walled Garden, Ice House, and Stables.
The house has an important collection of European fine and decorative arts, including furniture, silver, porcelain, and paintings.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the house and explore the many rooms, including the library, drawing room, and dining room, which are all decorated with period furniture and artwork.
There are also exhibitions on display, showcasing the history of the house and its residents.

The Art at Russborough House County Wicklow

The art collection at Russborough House is considered one of the most important private collections in Europe.
The collection includes works by many famous artists, including Rubens, Gainsborough, and Van Dyck.
Some of the items are on loan to the National Gallery of Ireland and sometimes paintings from The National Gallery are on display at Russborough House Ireland.
The house’s collection of silver is also impressive, with pieces from Ireland, England, and Europe on display.
The porcelain collection includes pieces from China, Japan, and Europe.

Events at Russborough House

Russborough House hosts many events throughout the year, including garden tours, concerts, and workshops.
The house is also a popular wedding venue, with its stunning architecture and picturesque setting making it a perfect location for a fairytale wedding.
The house is also involved in many local festivals, including the Russborough Artisan Food and Craft Market, which takes place every Sunday in the summer months.
There is a children’s playground with lots of swings and roundabouts, and they also have a Birds of Prey Centre where eagles, owls, hawks and falcons can be seen.

Unwelcome Fame – Robberies at Russborough House

Russborough House in Ireland has been the target of four robberies in the last 28 years.

The first major robbery happened in 1974 when an IRA gang, including British heiress Dr Rose Dugdale and IRA man Eddie Gallagher, stole 19 paintings at a value of £8m.

The second robbery occurred in May 1986 when a gang of Dublin criminals led by Martin Cahill stole 18 paintings, including a Vermeer and a Goya, from Sir Alfred Beit’s collection.
Cahill, a ruthless gangster, was the subject of a feature film called ‘The General’ directed by John Boorman.

The third robbery happened in 2001, and the fourth in 2002.

The robberies were traumatic events for all the residents and staff of Russborough House, the only positive being that the house which was largely unknown to the wider public, became the focus of media attention, which contributed to the popularity the house enjoys today.

Activities at Russborough House Ireland

Visitors to Russborough House Ireland in County Wicklow can enjoy many activities, including guided tours of the house and gardens, horse riding, and fishing.

The house also offers workshops in art, cooking, and photography, making it a perfect destination for those looking to learn new skills.

Visitors can also explore the many walking trails around the estate, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Russborough House is a treasure trove of art and history, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Irish architecture and art.
The house’s stunning architecture, impressive art collection, and picturesque setting make it a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

With so many events and activities on offer, there is something for everyone at Russborough House Ireland in County Wicklow.

Accommodation Near Russborough House on The Map

Looking for accommodation near Russborough House Ireland? The Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort is about 5km from Russborough House