Number 29 Georgian House Museum

The Georgian House Museum is located at 29 Fitzwilliam Street, hence the name.  The stately Georgian townhouse was built towards the end of the nineteenth century.  Its first occupant was one Mrs. Olivia Beatty, the focus of the museum.  She was a young widow, able to afford the mansion thanks to the estate of her deceased husband.  The house was eventually sold and changed hands several before the 1980s, when it was restored and converted into a museum.  It opened to the public in 1991 to commemorate Dublin’s status as European Cultural Capital.

The interior design of the house reflects the popular style at the turn of the nineteenth century.  All of the furniture and decorations are contemporary, though not original to the house.  Irish furniture from this time is particularly beautiful, with lots of interesting flourishes and dark wood imported from the New World.  There are also several paintings on display, including scenes from nineteenth century Ireland and portraits of famous Irishmen.  There are also displays dedicated to the everyday life of people in this period.

The Number 29 Georgian House Museum provides a fascinating insight into life in Dublin at the turn of the nineteenth century.  Unfortunately, much of this heritage was lost to redevelopment in the last hundred years.  Though it’s small, this is one of the city’s best museums and definitely worth a visit.  It is accessible only by guided tour, preceded by an informational video.  The tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining.

Location: 29 Fitzwilliam Street
Telephone: +353 01 702 6165
Hours: Open 10:00-17:00 Tuesday through Saturday, 12:00-17:00 Sunday.
Closed Monday.
Admission:
€6.00 Adults
€3.00 Students/Seniors/Concessions
Free for children under 16.