King House is a magnificently restored Georgian Mansion built around 1730 by Sir Henry King whose family were one of the most powerful and wealthy in Ireland.
After its first life as a home, King House became a military barracks to the famous Connaught Rangers from 1788 until 1922. In most recent years King House has also been a barracks for the Irish Army.
Today visitors can explore the house and enjoy a range of interactive exhibitions that offer an enchanting view of Ireland's heritage and culture. Wade through the many room of King House and explore the following interactive exhibitions.
The Kingdom of Connacht
Discover the world of Gaelic Ireland in this audio presentation using life size models and special effects. Join the McDermot Clan at a 16th Century Feast, listen to a tragic Irish romance, write like the monks of Boyle Abbey with a quill and ink, and dress in the attire of a Gaelic Chieftain.
The Chronicles of Kings
Meet members of the King family from Sir John King who arrived in Boyle in 1603 to Sir Cecil Stafford King Harman who left Boyle in 1957. Follow dramatic episodes of their history with stories of runaway lovers and a duel of honour, a murder trial and even a case of marital infidelity. Hear fascinating accounts of the lives of their tenants and staff in Boyle and on the nearby Rockingham Estate, now Lough Key Forest Park and listen to Lady Eleanor King recall her social engagement from 1774.
The House of Kings
View the story of the construction and restoration of this majestic mansion in the 'House of Kings'. Listen to a Georgian era stonemason with a three cornered hat, ponytail and leather apron describe his trade and then a modern day chippie explains the huge task of restoring King House to its former glory. Try your own building skills as you attempt to construct a brick vault.
The Fighting Men from Connaught
Place yourself in the boots of a Connaught Ranger, inhabitants of King House during its days as their barracks from 1788 to 1922. Play the regimental drum and hear the recruiting Sergeant call for support. Discover the origins of the 'Jingling Johnny' and follow the regiment's campaigns from the Peninsular Wars to World War One. Learn about the famous mutiny in India. Finally, visit the cold and damp jail cells in the basement where soldiers who broke military discipline were imprisoned. Find out how King House later became a barracks from the modern Irish Army.
Hidden Gem
View the amazing work and display pieces by Erwin Springbrunn, a unique craftsman, an exceptional goldsmith. No two pieces of jewellery were ever the same. Each was a work of art.
Interwined
The McAleese Collection ‘INTERWINED’ contains some amazing State Gifts kindly donated by former President Mary McAleese from her time as President of Ireland to the nation.
Boyle to Boulevard
A lovely exhibition dedicated to Boyle’s own Hollywood Star Maureen O’Sullivan, who was born just yards from King House.
Boyle Civic Art Collection
Visitors to King House can view the Boyle Civic Art Collection of paintings and sculpture by the very best of contemporary Irish Artists.
King House is home to Roscommon County Council's Steinway Concert Piano and regularly hosts music recitals. Conference facilities are also available at King House.