Heritage Week to get off to flying start at Laois treasure Emo Court

Emo Court will be buzzing with activities during Heritage Week.

Events start at the Laois landmark with free guided tours on the opening day of Heritage Week, Saturday, August 16, 10am - 4pm where you will learn about the house, its history and the people who lived here. Tickets on a first-come, served basis from the ticket desk.

Join an “exclusive garden” tour of Emo Court with Valerie Cloonan on August 16 and 23, 3-4pm, to explore the beauty and history of Emo Court's gardens and discover heritage planting, hidden gems and centuries of landscape design.
Join a Children’s Seek and Find Tour where you will journey through the house to discover hidden patterns, shapes, textures and treasures. Book early for the events on August 17 and 20, 10am - 10:45am, to secure your place.

Join a free child-friendly guided tour of Emo court period rooms and basement servants' quarters on August 18, 10am - 11am. These tours are aimed at school children and their families maximum of two adults per booking.

Ever wondered what life was like behind the scenes at Emo Court? If so, join a special basement-only "Servants Quarters Tour" on 19 August, 3:30pm - 4:15pm.

The Azure Tour takes place on August 20 11am-12.30pm. The Azure Art Experience is designed for people with dementia and their family, friends or carers. Azure-trained OPW staff facilitate this experience.

The Office of Public Works (OPW) run house and gardens will also be the venue for some cultural activities during Heritage Week. MORE BELOW PHOTO.

Sarah Luttrel and Rebecca Warren, Mezzo-Soprano and pianist in Emo Court will perform a concert on August 17 from 6 to 7pm. It features traditional Irish songs and art songs by Irish composers as well as opera and classical pieces inspired by Irish themes. The event also includes poetry and spoken word woven through music.

Meanwhile, an afternoon of creative expression inspired by the beautiful Emo estate is promised during a Plein Air painting demonstration on August 21 from 2pm - 4pm. Feel free to bring along your own art supplies if you wish to paint along. Not suitable for under 16s.

The OPW invites you to return to the park or pay your first visit during Heritage Week on the final day of activities on August 24 for a Parklands tour 11am to 1pm.

READ ALSO: Fascinating Heritage Week events in Laois

“This tour is perfect for those looking to deepen their appreciation for the parklands while enjoying a pleasant walk in the fresh air,” say the organisers.

More details on the Heritage Week website Laois listings section. Places are limited for some event so to book call on 057 862 6573 or emocourtguides@opw.ie

The OPW is hosting events heritage sites across Ireland for Heritage Week 2025, which runs from Saturday 16 to Sunday 24 August.

This year’s theme, "Exploring Our Foundations", invites the public to reflect on the structures, landscapes, stories and cultural practices that have shaped Irish life over the centuries.