Maria Edgeworth Centre

Explore Historical Places in
Edgeworthstown

The Maria Edgeworth Centre

Interactive history tour in Edgeworthstown: Discover one of Ireland’s best kept literary secrets in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Housed in one of the oldest schools in Ireland, built in 1840. The Maria Edgeworth Centre is an inspiring interpretive centre that is home to original exhibits dating back to the 18th century. Immerse yourself in this interactive experience available in seven languages, uncover the rich history of Ireland’s early education system and the role played by the Edgeworth Family. Feedback from visitors has listed this as one of the best things to do in Edgeworthstown.

Edgeworth Literary & Heritage Trail

Historical tours in Edgeworthstown: Discover one of Ireland’s best kept literary secrets in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands.

Join a local guide to learn about the life and works of the influential novelist and educator Maria Edgeworth. Visit the charming grounds of her ancestral home and the 1840’s schoolhouse built under the patronage of the Edgeworth’s. Follow in the footsteps of historical figures, like Sir Walter Scott, William Wordsworth, Oscar Wilde and many more. Take one of our Literary Tours of Edgeworthstown and uncover their connections with the town of Edgeworthstown.

Meet the Edgeworths

Maria Edgeworth and her family is one of the most remarkable to have lived in any town in the 18th, 19th and early twentieth Centuries. Their connections to the worlds of Science, Education and Literature brought them into contact with many notable minds who they would influence or who influenced them.

Discover the Edgeworth's Bulletin

Title page of Emma Vol. I with MariaEdgeworth's signature

Edgeworth Family

Jane Austen’s Emma: From Longford to Sotheby’s

October 31, 2025

Edgeworth Family

Discovering Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands: A Visit to Fore Distillery

October 18, 2025

Marie Tierney and Matt Farrell in Maria Edgeworth Centre

Edgeworth Family

1833 Edition Presented to Maria Edgeworth Centre

September 8, 2025

Book a Tour | Maria Edgeworth Centre

We welcome visitors from around the world. Families, groups and school tours are all welcome and catered for. Children and adults of all ages can enjoy our interactive tours and fascinating displays. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.

If you are a tour operator, get in touch today to find out how our team can cater to your tour group needs.

We invite visitors to bring a picnic to enjoy in our adjoining park. Amenities include free parking and wheelchair accessible toilets. Wheelchair access is restricted in the Centre.