Where nature speaks
Contact Details
Killarney National Park Address
Killarney National Park, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 HE3C
Killarney House and Gardens, Visitor Centre
Address:
Killarney National Park, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 HE3C
phone:
+353 1 539 3620
email:
infokillarneyhouse@npws.gov.ie
facebook:
@KillarneyNationalPark
Permits:
PermitsKNP@npws.gov.ie
Muckross Traditional Farms
phone:
+353 64 6670144
website:
www.muckross-house.ie/traditional-farms
facebook:
@muckross.ie
Killarney National Park Education Centre
phone:
+353 64 6635960
website:
www.killarneynationalpark.ie/learn/education-centre/
facebook:
@KNPEC
Ross Castle
phone:
+353 64 6635851
email:
rosscastle@opw.ie
website:
www.heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/ross-castle/
facebook:
@rosscastlekillarneyopw
Duty Park Rangers
phone:
+353 64 6635215
Between 9:00AM–5:00PM
Emergencies & First Aid
In the event of any emergency, (Police, Fire, Ambulance, Mountain Rescue) dial 112 or 999.
First Aid facilities, including an AED (defibrillator) are available at Killarney National Park Visitor Centre and Muckross House and Gardens. Emergency services can be alerted from these locations.
Can I use a drone in the National Park?
The recreational use of Drones is not permitted within the grounds of Killarney National Park. Drones affect wildlife, in particular nesting birds. They also impact on our visitors experience due to noise pollution and are an invasion of privacy.
How big is the National Park and what is there to see?
The National Park is over 26,000 acres and has a distinctive combination of mountains, lakes, woods and waterfalls. Focal points within the National Park for visitors are Killarney House and Gardens, incorporating the Visitor Centre, Muckross House and Gardens, the Muckross Traditional Farms, Ross Castle, Torc Waterfall and Muckross Abbey. The National Park has plenty to offer, from stunning scenery and landscapes including lakes, waterfalls and forests, as well as a wide variety of plant and flora species.
Is there any place to get refreshments and snacks in the National Park?
There are several cafes/restaurants within the boundaries of the National Park.
How do I get to the National Park?
The National Park can be accessed 24/7 at multiple sites both by car and on foot.
Can you cycle in the National Park?
Cycling is allowed within the National Park. Please follow signage and adhere to one-way routes. Cyclists must always give way to pedestrians. Off-road cycling is not allowed due to the damage it can cause to sensitive habitats. Cycles can be hired at various shops in the town.
Can you drive through the National Park?
Yes, the N71 road running from Killarney town towards Kenmare incorporates many of the National Park’s sites and runs through the National Park. However, driving through the gardens and around heritage sites is not allowed.
Is it safe to swim in the National Park?
The gently sloping Goleen shore of Muckross Lake is a traditional bathing place. But be careful: the lakes are deep with sudden depth changes. The shallow areas are quite narrow and drop off suddenly at a certain point.
Parents, in particular, need to be aware of the dangers, and should never let children swim or paddle without close supervision.
For safety reasons, inflatable airbeds and other inflatables are not permitted.
There is no lifeguard on duty. Life rings are present at regular intervals along the shore. Anyone entering the lake is warned that they do so at their own risk.
Do you have a shuttle bus?
We do not operate a shuttle bus but private bus services do operate from the town to various sites around the National Park. Jaunting cars also bring visitors around the grounds. You can also view the National Park from the lake via boat.
Can we camp, have a BBQ or light a campfire in the National Park?
No, camping, fires and BBQs are not allowed in the National Park, but there are several campsites a short distance away.
Can I walk to Muckross House from Killarney town?
It is possible to walk between Killarney town and Muckross house but the distance is 6km. The walk encompasses road and National Park trails.
How much does it cost to enter the National Park?
The National Park and gardens are all free to enter, but some of the heritage sites charge admission fees.
Can I bring my dog into the National Park?
While we welcome responsible dog-walkers, it’s important to remember that the National Park is home to many different types of sensitive habitats. Please read the Dog Owners Code of Conduct before visiting.