Fethard Horse Country Experience

Located in the heart of the Golden Vale, Fethard Horse Country Experience offers visitors the opportunity to discover the rich culture, heritage and history of the region. Part of Ireland’s Ancient East, this interactive experience examines the relationship between the people, the land and the horse revealing how they are all inextricably linked.

Spread out over two floors within a 17th century Tholsel building the interactive nature of the exhibition makes it an enjoyable and informative experience for all ages. The entire building is also wheelchair accessible.

The Tholsel building, as it is known today, began life as an almshouse. Built by the Everard family circa 1610 the building was handed over to six local ladies as lodging. Subsequently it housed the Fethard Corporation until it was abolished in 1840. They were succeeded by the Town Commissioners who ran Fethard affairs until 1898. Later the building served many other purposes.

Every local has a recollection of attending a dance, competing in a badminton tournament or taking to the stage during its days as a theatre space. Marketplace, fire station and library were some of the other functions of the building. The first Country Market in Ireland, founded by Olivia Hughes, took place here in 1957 and continues to do so every Saturday morning.