king house interpretive galleries and museum

Roscommon County Council, recognising the historical, architectural and cultural importance of King House, began the restoration project in 1989.

Using highly skilled artisans and local craftsmen employing traditional techniques and materials all three floors and the basement have been impressively restored.

Of particular note are the main entrance gallery with its tripate windows and original fireplace, the extensive vaulted ceilings on all floors and the splendid main salon which is in use once again as a superb venue for recitals and banquets.

Since 1788, when the King Family moved to Rockingham, the house has been used as a military barracks - recently by the Irish Army but originally by the Connaught Rangers who fought bravely and with honour until, while in India, they heard of the atrocities being committed back in Ireland by the 'Black and Tans' and mutinied.

The other rooms in the house are used for important temporary exhibitions and these are open to visitors, usually at no extra charge.

Kings Of Connaught - using dynamic special effects and sound, visitors are led through a series of stunningly created tableaux and encouraged, with interactive pieces, to experience life as it was in the house and in the locality.

The displays, ranging all over the floors, cover four main themes:

- The Kingdom of Connaught - from the earliest recorded times showing the importance of the clans and their Kings.

- The King Family - meet the families who lived in the house from Sir John King who came to Boyle in 1603 to the fascinating accounts of life, both for the family and the staff, at Rockingham Estate, now Lough Key Forest Park.

- The Restoration - a room has been left partially restored so that visitors can see the fabric of the house and with the aid of photographs and models see the skill and craft employed in the building and restoration.

- The Military Usage - From 1788 until recent times. Opening dates: 1st April to 30th September, - daily from 10.00a.m. to 6.00p.m. Last admission at 5.00p.m.

The house is situated overlooking the Boyle River in the town of Boyle. Entrance is from the Main Street.