The jewel of Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens is a must see. Queen Victoria paid a visit here, to the Herbert family, in 1861. The House was later owned by Lord Ardilaun (of the Guinness family) and later still by the Bourn Vincents. Today, many of the rooms in this magnificent mansion have been restored to their original Victorian splendour. Between the months of April and July, Muckross Gardens are spectacularly adorned with the red and pink flowers of mature rhododendrons. Other garden features include a Sunken Garden, a Rock Garden and a Stream Garden. An Arboretum, containing many trees from the Southern Hemisphere, was established here in 1972. Opening Hours 2017: Muckross House and Gardens are open daily all year round (except the Christmas period). Muckross House is open 9am – 5.30pm (9am – 7pm from July 1st – August 31st). Admission to Muckross House is by Guided Tour only. Last admission 1 hour before closing.