Kilgarvan Motor Museum: A Kerry Automotive Treasure
Discover a stunning collection of vintage cars and motoring history at the family-run Kilgarvan Motor Museum in beautiful County Kerry.
The Kilgarvan Motor Museum, a family-run gem in County Kerry, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the fascinating world of vintage automobiles. Founded by John Mitchell and his family in 1984, the museum grew from a personal passion for collecting and restoring classic cars. What began as a hobby in the 1970s has become a renowned attraction, drawing car enthusiasts and curious travelers from across the globe. The museum's collection features a diverse array of meticulously maintained vehicles, with a special emphasis on Irish-registered and assembled cars. Among the notable makes are Rolls Royce, Bentley, Alvis, Armstrong Siddeley, and Ford, including Cork-built Model Ts from the 1920s. The collection also includes a 1946 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster, the first car the Mitchell family acquired, and a variety of automobilia exhibits. Beyond the cars themselves, the Kilgarvan Motor Museum offers a glimpse into the dedication and craftsmanship required to preserve automotive history. The Mitchell family has painstakingly restored most of the 35 cars in the collection, ensuring they are in full working order. Visitors can also enjoy forest walks, gardens, picnic areas, and a café. The museum is located close to popular driving routes such as the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, and the Ring of Beara.
Local tips
- Visit on weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Take advantage of the café for a relaxing break with local treats after your tour.
- Check the museum's website for special events or exhibitions that might coincide with your visit.
- Engage with the staff for insider stories about the cars and their history.
- Allow at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and enjoy your visit.
A brief summary to Kilgarvan Motor Museum
- Slaheny, Co. Kerry, IE
- +353646685346
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9:30 am-12:45 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-12:45 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-12:45 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-12:45 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-12:45 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Killarney, head south on the N22. Continue for about 20 km until you reach the junction for the R569. Take the R569 towards Kilgarvan. After approximately 10 km, you will arrive in the village of Kilgarvan. Follow the signs for Kilgarvan Motor Museum, which is located at Slaheny, just outside the village. The museum is on the left side of the road and has a distinctive sign. There is ample parking available.
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Public Transport
From Killarney Bus Station, take Bus Éireann route 270 towards Kilgarvan. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, with buses departing every 2 hours. Alight at Kilgarvan. From the bus stop, the museum is approximately 2 km away. Follow the main road (R569) out of the village towards Slaheny. A single fare on Bus Éireann from Killarney to Kilgarvan typically costs between €5 and €9. A taxi from Kilgarvan village to the museum would cost approximately €10-€15.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Killarney. A taxi directly from Killarney to Kilgarvan Motor Museum takes approximately 24 minutes and costs around €65-€80. This is the most direct option.
