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Heritage Ireland

Emo Court and Estate

A magnificent example of neo-classical architecture

08:30 – 20:30

See all opening times

Emo Court and Estate

A magnificent example of neo-classical architecture

08:30 – 20:30

See all opening times

Limited Access

Parklands Open daily
Tearooms Open daily
Gardens Open daily April- September
House currently closed for restoration works

Admission

From 1 January 2022:

Adult: €8.00
Group/Senior: €6.00
Child/Student: €4.00
Family: €20.00

Getting here

Emo
Co. Laois
R32 C44V

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Emo Court and Estate

Emo Court is a quintessential neo-classical mansion, set in the midst of the ancient Slieve Bloom Mountains. The famous architect James Gandon, fresh from his work on the Custom House and the Four Courts in Dublin, set to work on Emo Court in 1790. However, the building that stands now was not completed until some 70 years later.

The estate was home to the earls of Portarlington until the War of Independence forced them to abandon Ireland for good. The Jesuits moved in some years later and, as the Novitiate of the Irish Province, the mansion played host to some 500 of the order’s trainees.

A Major Cholmeley-Harrison took over Emo Court in the 1960s and fully restored it. He opened the beautiful gardens and parkland to the public before finally presenting the entire estate to the people of Ireland in 1994.

Visitors to Emo Court can enjoy the lake and woodland walks or a meander through the gardens before relaxing in the charming tearooms

The house is currently being carefully and expertly restored by the OPW and will have new exhibits and displays to explore.

Opening Times

Open all year round with the exception of Christmas Day.

Average Length of Visit: 1 hour

Notice

Please note: The house at Emo Court is currently closed for restoration works .

Apologies for any inconvenience.

Lock up of the Parkland starts ½ hour before closing time stated in Seasonal Opening Times.

Please note that Visitors to the site who may require special assistance or those with mobility issues should contact the Emo Court and Parklands directly on +353 57 862 6573 in advance of their visit

Grounds: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads at all times. No cycling on walkways. No fire lighting. No camping. No Barbeques.

During the winter season, Emo Court and Parklands may not open due to adverse weather conditions. In the event of bad weather, please phone +353 57 862 6573before commencing your journey to avoid disappointment and for up-to-date information. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

Hazard Warning

Lake in parklands – deep water caution. Uneven terrain in parklands – suitable footwear required.

 

 

 

Seasonal Opening Times

November, December, January

08:30 – 16:30

March & October

08:30 – 18:30

February

08:30- 17:30

April & September

08:30 – 20:00

May – August

08:30 – 21:00

Contact

Emo
Co. Laois
R32 C44V

057 862 6573

Getting Here

2.5km from Emo. (Accessed from Kildare – Portlaoise Road – N7). 7km from the Portarlington train station.

Open location in Google Maps

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Facilities

  • Baby Changing
  • Brochure
  • Café
  • Car park
  • Card Accepted
  • Exhibition
  • Guided tours
  • Interpretive exhibit
  • Picnic Area
  • Toilets

Restrictions

  • Dogs on lead

Nearby sites to visit

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