Local tourist attraction presented with Excellence Award

Strokestown Park and the National Famine Museum have received a first-ever CIE Tours of Excellence Award.

This recognition, presented at a ceremony held at Trinity College Dublin on February 3rd, celebrates Strokestown Park’s “outstanding dedication to delivering an exceptional visitor experience and a warm, welcoming atmosphere”.

The awards honour tourist attractions that achieve a customer satisfaction rating of 92% or higher, based on feedback from thousands of international visitors.

General manager John O’Driscoll said that they were “delighted to receive this recognition and esteemed award for the first time since our multi-award-winning museum reopened in 2022. It is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of the Strokestown Park team, who strive every day to honour the history of the Great Irish Famine while creating a welcoming and inspiring environment for visitors. Being acknowledged by those who have toured our premium experience makes this achievement all the more special.” Strokestown Park and the National Famine Museum are managed by the Irish Heritage Trust, an independent non-profit organisation.

The National Famine Museum tells the story of the Great Irish Famine through personal stories, documents and interactive exhibits that illuminate the human impact of this tragic period in Irish history. The estate also includes a grand Palladian house offering a guided tour experience, six-acre walled gardens with seasonal plantings that provide a peaceful retreat, and expansive grounds where visitors can unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of the natural surroundings. After a day of exploration, visitors can relax at the onsite dog-friendly Woodland Café.

Strokestown Park is recognised as one of Ireland’s most welcoming venues for dogs and was a recent winner of the Dog-Friendly Venue Award at the Petmania Ruby Heart Awards 2025. The estate has also recently adopted the JAM Card (Just A Minute) initiative, making it easier for visitors and staff with hidden disabilities or communication barriers to discreetly ask for a little extra time, patience or support. The JAM Card is used by people with autism, neurodivergence, speech, language or communication difficulties, and other hidden disabilities, and is recognised as a simple but powerful tool to improve everyday interactions and the overall visitor experience.