Abbeyleix Heritage House

About the museum

Abbeyleix Heritage House is the town’s heritage centre, housed in a nineteenth-century building that was formerly the north boys’ school. The building was later home to the Abbeyleix Carpet Factory, which made hand-tufted carpets, including those for the state room of the Titanic.

The museum covers the history of County Laois from the pre-Christian tribes through Norman influence, the suppression of the monasteries under Henry VIII, the plantations, the influence of the landlords and the industrial revolution. It also tells the story of Abbeyleix itself, which was built by the de Vesci landlords.

A separate Carpet Factory exhibition room is devoted to the handmade Abbeyleix carpets and their Titanic link. Visitors can also arrange to see the Sexton House, which must be booked in advance through Heritage House. Behind the building there is a children’s play and amenity area.

Highlights

• History of County Laois from prehistory to the industrial age
• Carpet Factory exhibition room and the Titanic carpet story
• Story of Abbeyleix and the de Vesci family
• Sexton House visit by advance booking
• Children’s play area

Permanent exhibitions

• Laois history museum – Artefacts and displays follow the history of County Laois from pre-Christian times through Norman rule, the plantations and the landlords to the industrial revolution.
• Carpet Factory exhibition room – Shows the handmade carpets of Abbeyleix, including the story of the carpets made for the Titanic.

Admission & discounts

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Playground / play area

A well-equipped children’s play and amenity area is at the back of the house.

Getting there & parking

Amenities & dining

• Café

A café serving local produce is on site.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit