Come visit and enjoy a week of engaging activities at the Hunt Museum celebrating Limerick’s rich stone heritage. This programme ties in with this year’s Heritage Week theme of Exploring Our Past, highlighting the craftsmanship, history, and stories carved in stone.
Irish Natural Stone Carving Exhibition in Garden Gallery
Explore the beauty and craftsmanship of traditional stone carving in this outdoor exhibition by Irish Natural Stone. Set in the Garden Gallery, the display features expertly carved pieces that highlight the skill, precision, and heritage of one of Ireland’s oldest crafts. A celebration of form, texture, and timeless technique—perfect for all ages to enjoy during Heritage Week.
Free event. No booking required.
Stories in Stone: A Self-Guided Tour of the Hunt Collection
Dates: Saturday 16 – Sunday 24 August (excluding Monday, 18 August, when the museum is closed)
Available during opening hours
Discover the fascinating world of stone through a fun and family-friendly self-guided trail. Explore stone objects from the Hunt Museum collection, learn about their history, and spot unique carvings and materials along the way. Designed especially for children, this trail encourages curiosity and close observation, making heritage accessible and exciting for all ages.
Pick up your free trail guide at reception and start your stone adventure!
General Admission Fee. No booking required.
Stone Age Artefact Handling for All Ages
Date: Wednesday, 20 August
Time: Two sessions, Morning, 11am & Afternoon, 2pm
Location: Captains’ Room
Admission: Free event. Drop-in.
Join us in the Captains’ Room to explore replica Stone Age artefacts up close. Learn how early humans lived, what tools they used, and how they shaped the world around them. This interactive session is perfect for curious minds of all ages—feel the weight of a hand axe, examine ancient materials, and ask questions as you explore the past through touch.
All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Free event. Drop-in.
An Introduction to Irish Archaeology for Children
Date: Friday, 22 August
Time: 2-3.30pm
Location: Captains’ Room
Admission: Free event. Booking essential.
Join us for an exciting, hands-on journey into the world of Irish archaeology, specially designed for children aged 8–11. Led by experienced field archaeologist Elaine Lynch. The session begins with an engaging slideshow that introduces how archaeologists uncover and study the past. Children will then have the opportunity to handle replica artefacts, similar to those found on real digs. The session will finish by creating their own shell bracelet inspired by ancient jewellery.
It’s a fun, interactive way to explore history!
Max: 26 children | Ages: 8–11 |
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Organised by the Friends of the Hunt Museum.
Stone Stories: Talk, Tour & Demonstration
Date: Saturday, 23 August
Time: 2-4pm
Location: Captains’ Room
Admission: Free event. Booking essential.
Join us for an engaging afternoon exploring the artistry and heritage of stone.
We begin in the Captains’ Room with a fascinating talk on the history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of stone in Ireland. Next, we’ll move into the gallery to view remarkable examples from the Hunt Collection up close, uncovering the stories behind each piece.
The afternoon concludes outdoors with a live stone-carving demonstration, where you can see traditional techniques in action and gain a deeper appreciation for this timeless craft.
This event is free to attend, and all ages are welcome.
Event details
If looking for one of our objects, please click here