The Playpark

A space for play, fresh air and family time
Room to run and explore

A Community Space for
Children of All Ages

The PlayPark at The Workhouse offers a safe, outdoor space where children can play freely while parents and guardians relax nearby. It is a much loved part of the site and a popular stop for families visiting Dunfanaghy.

Designed for families

About The PlayPark

With equipment suitable for children of all ages, the PlayPark is ideal for burning off energy and enjoying time outdoors. Benches and a small gazebo provide seating for parents and guardians, making it easy to spend time here at a relaxed pace.

The PlayPark is located close to the main site and is easily accessible. Visitors can park close to the gate, which is especially helpful for families with younger children.

What to know before you visit

Additional Information

The PlayPark is open year round and free to use. Its upkeep is supported through community donations, helping ensure it remains a safe and welcoming space for both local families and visitors.

A donation box is located at the entrance to the PlayPark for anyone who wishes to contribute. You can also support the PlayPark by purchasing second hand books from the Coffee Shop, with all proceeds going towards maintenance.

Group Bookings

Shared Journeys Through History

The Workhouse welcomes school groups, colleges, and organised tours all year round. Our guided experiences are designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding of Irish history, heritage, and resilience.

Nancy M

24/04/2023
This was such an interesting experience. The tour explores the experiences of those misfortunate enough to submit themselves and their families to what was said to be benevolent care but was actually quite horrible. They recorded a resident, Wee Hannah, and she describes her beyond incredible resilience. After leaving the workhouse she lives into her 90’s!

David Larmour

20/05/2024
Dunfanaghy workhouse museum may be small but it’s a fascinating and sobering reminder of those terrible, not so distant times. To put it into personal perspective, ‘Wee Hannah’ a former inmate who lived through the famine was still alive when my parents were born.

Harry L

19/08/2025
This is well worth visiting. There is much information on the system of workhouses in the terrible times of the Victorian area for anyone who was poor. We learned a lot.

Angela M

28/10/2024
A hour or so spent learning about the history of Dunfanaghy Workhouse. The local guide was so knowledgeable and personable. Fascinating exhibition

Harry L

04/08/2025
This is well worth visiting. There is much information on the system of workhouses in the terrible times of the Victorian area for anyone who was poor. We learned a lot.

Christine L

05/01/2026
We had the best time at the workhouse. It was very informative. The girls were absolutely amazing, friendly and helpful and the craic was good. The tour was thought provoking, the craft shop well stocked with a variety of crafts and goods and the coffee shop was lovely. Well worth a visit.
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