The Main Guard
Seventeenth-century courthouse in Clonmel, restored by the OPW, with an interpretive exhibition and a changing exhibition space; free entry.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Main Guard in Clonmel was built in the seventeenth century as a courthouse by James Butler, Duke of Ormond. It is a two-storey symmetrical building with a sandstone arcade, and some of its design details are based on the work of Sir Christopher Wren. In the eighteenth century it was the seat of the Clonmel Assizes, where Father Nicholas Sheehy was tried.
Later the building served as a barracks, which is how it came to be called the Main Guard, and around 1810 the ground floor was turned into shops. An award-winning restoration returned the open arcade of sandstone columns to the main street. The Office of Public Works now looks after it as a heritage site.
Inside, an interpretive exhibit explains the history of the building, and an exhibition and event space shows changing exhibitions. Admission is free.
Highlights
- Restored seventeenth-century courthouse with an open sandstone arcade
- Interpretive exhibit on the building and its history
- Gallery space for changing exhibitions and events
- Free admission
Permanent exhibition
- The Main Guard interpretive exhibit – An interpretive exhibit on the history of the courthouse and its restoration.
- Operated by
- Office of Public Works (OPW) – Heritage Ireland
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
Heritage Ireland lists wheelchair access, a lift and a wheelchair-accessible toilet; visitors are asked to hold the handrail. Assistance dogs are welcome.
Kids & families
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Getting there & parking
The building stands at one end of Sarsfield Street, the main street of Clonmel.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Museum shop
Gift shop. The building is also a venue for events and weddings.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Weddings / ceremonies
Heritage Ireland lists the building as a venue for events and weddings.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Heritage Ireland lists guided tours without published times. |