Things to Do in Killarney, Ireland
A Local Guide’s Story of History, Nature & Living Memory
Killarney, County Kerry, is one of Ireland’s most beloved destinations — a place where mountains, lakes, historic houses, waterfalls, and a vibrant town come together in a truly special way. From Killarney National Park to Muckross House, Killarney House and Gardens, Torc Waterfall, the peaceful Upper Lake, and the character-filled streets of Killarney town, there is no shortage of unforgettable tourist attractions.
As a native of Killarney and a professional guide for over 20 years, my connection to these places is deeply personal. In fact, my career as a tour guide began at Muckross House in the early 1980s, and my family history is woven through the streets of the town itself.
Reasons to choose to tour with Mary G
Muckross House – Where My Guiding Career Began
Set beside the lakes of Killarney National Park, Muckross House is one of Ireland’s finest Victorian mansions. For many visitors, it is a highlight of their trip. For me, it is where I first learned the craft of guiding and storytelling.
While working there in the early 1980s, I was fortunate to meet Billy Vincent, whose family once owned Muckross House and its vast estate. Billy lived here until he was 11 years old, before the family left following the death of his mother. In a remarkable act of generosity, the Vincent family later gifted Muckross House and its lands to the Irish State, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Billy married a French lady and lived in Monaco, but he returned regularly to Muckross. On those visits, he shared stories of his childhood — everyday moments, family life, and what it was like growing up in this extraordinary house. Those conversations brought Muckross vividly to life and gave me an intimate knowledge of the house that no guidebook could ever offer. Read more about Muckross House in my blog.
Killarney National Park – Ireland’s First National Park
Surrounding Muckross House is Killarney National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve covering over 25,000 acres of mountains, lakes, rivers, and ancient woodlands.
Highlights include:
Scenic walking and cycling routes
Boat trips across the lakes
Native red deer and rare plant life
Ever-changing light and landscapes
It is a living, breathing landscape — one I have explored in every season and continue to share with visitors from all over the world.
Muckross abbey
Of all of the Killarney attractions that I tour, my guests tell me that this is the highlight for them. Built in 1448 around the famous yew tree, now centred in the cloisters. There are lots of legends associated with this tree. Join me for a tour if you would like to learn more. We offer half-day tours of all of the attractions in Killarney National Park. We also offer full-day tours that also take in the town of Kenmare.
Torc Waterfall – A Natural Icon
Located close to Muckross, Torc Waterfall is one of Killarney’s most popular natural attractions. A short woodland walk brings you to the cascade as it tumbles over mossy rocks, especially impressive after rainfall.
For those who wish to go further, the path continues uphill towards Torc Mountain, rewarding walkers with panoramic views over the lakes and valley below.
The Upper Lake – Tranquillity and Reflection
The Upper Lake is the most serene of Killarney’s three lakes. Less visited than the lakes nearer the town, it offers quiet beauty, dramatic mountain backdrops, and some of the finest photo opportunities in the region.
Boat trips, jaunting cars, and lakeside walks allow visitors to experience this peaceful corner of the national park at a gentle pace.
Killarney House and Gardens – Stories from the Inside
Close to Killarney town, Killarney House and Gardens is another historic estate with a fascinating past. A few years ago, I had the privilege of touring the house with the nephews of John McShain, the renowned builder who once owned the property.
They shared personal stories about their uncle, who was responsible for over 100 buildings in Washington D.C., including the Pentagon. Hearing these family memories added a rare and personal dimension to the house and deepened my understanding of its place in Killarney’s history.
Today, the gardens provide a peaceful place to walk, relax, and enjoy views across parkland and lakes.
Ross Castle
Ross Castle is within about 30 minutes walk from Killarney town. It is possible to get there by walking through the gardens at Killarney House, the town park today. Another option for those who do not have a car is to take a jaunting car in the centre of town. It will take about 20 minutes by januting car. The castle is located on the shore of the Lower Lake of Killarney, known as Lough Léin, and it was one of the last castles in Ireland to be taken by Oliver Cromwell. Read more here in my blog.
Killarney Town – Pubs, People & the Passing of News
Killarney town is known for its lively atmosphere, traditional music, welcoming pubs, and strong sense of community. My own family story is deeply rooted here.
My grandmother, Agnes Courtney, owned Courtney’s Pub on Plunkett Street, which is still open today and is recognised as one of the oldest pubs in Killarney.
Agnes was a charitable woman who believed in helping those less fortunate. One of her regular visitors was Togo, the town’s bell ringer.
Before Newspapers – The Bell Ringer of Killarney
In the days before newspapers, news in Killarney was shared aloud.
Togo would call to my grandmother for his meals. In return, she would give him the news of the day. He would then go to Market Cross, ring his bell, and announce the latest happenings to the gathered crowd.
This was how news travelled through Killarney — by kindness, conversation, and community.
A Story That Came Full Circle
Many years later, when my mother was on her deathbed, she told me she had received a visit from Togo. At the time, I didn’t understand — I had never heard of him.
After my mother passed away, I mentioned it to my aunt, who then told me the full story of Togo and his connection to our family. It was a moment that beautifully linked generations and reminded me how deeply the past lives on in this town.
Experience Killarney with a Local Guide
Anyone can visit Killarney’s landmarks. What makes the experience special is understanding the stories behind them.
From my early days guiding at Muckross House, to family connections on Plunkett Street, to personal insights into Killarney House and the National Park, I offer visitors a deeper, more meaningful way to experience this remarkable place.
👉 Discover private, bespoke tours at www.marygtours.ie
Explore further
Many visitors combine Killarney with day trips such as the Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, or Beara Peninsula.
