Old Market House – Arts Centre, Library & Museum

Overview

Nestled on Lower Main Street in the heart of Dungarvan, the Old Market House is a striking example of adaptive reuse. The red‑brick façade with tall sash windows hints at its 17th‑century origins, while the interior now buzzes with a programme of visual art, theatre, music, a public library and the Waterford County Museum. Its central location makes it a natural gathering point for locals and tourists alike, offering a cultural oasis within Waterford’s historic town centre.

History / Background

A deed dated 1641 mentions a courthouse on the site, which scholars believe refers to the structure that would later become the market house. Originally built as a butter market, the ground floor sheltered dairy traders while council chambers occupied the upper level, giving the building a dual commercial and civic role. Over the centuries the surrounding Market Place thrummed with stalls and livestock.

In the 19th century the building became a focal point for municipal business, later serving as a grain store, town hall, theatre and dance hall. A careful reconstruction in 1984 restored the façade and interior layout, allowing the space to house Dungarvan Library and Museum until 1999. That year the venue was reborn as the Old Market House Arts Centre, and the upper rooms were designated for the Waterford County Museum, preserving the town’s archaeological, maritime and social heritage.

What to See & Do

• Art Exhibitions – Rotating displays showcase contemporary Irish painters, photographers and craft makers in intimate gallery spaces, often accompanied by artist talks.
• Performance Hall – Tiered seating, modern lighting and sound host traditional Irish music sessions, contemporary theatre, dance workshops and seasonal festivals.
• Museum Exhibitions – Permanent collections explore pre‑history (Kilgroany caves artefacts, Ogham stones, hand‑axe replica), maritime heritage (lifeboat models, harbour map, 1895 Moresby disaster accounts), the “Big House” social history of local estates, and sport/social history such as Ireland’s first cycling club and the Challenge Cup.
• Children’s Area – Hands‑on replicas let younger visitors touch history, from prehistoric tools to maritime artefacts.
• Library Services – A quiet reading room with free Wi‑Fi, local‑history books and the “My Open Library” self‑service system, extending access beyond opening hours.
• Workshops & Community Events – Craft classes, poetry readings, educational outreach and community‑group sessions are regularly held in the venue’s workshop rooms.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Admission

Parking & Accessibility

Parking is generally available in the town centre surrounding the Market Place, but specific details (e.g., designated spaces, fees, disabled access) should be confirmed locally. The venue is wheelchair‑accessible, with lifts to the upper floors; however, visitors are advised to check the latest accessibility information with the venue before arrival.

Nearby Attractions

• Dungarvan Castle – A medieval fortress overlooking the harbour, offering guided tours and panoramic views.
• Dungarvan Coastal Headlands – Scenic walks along the coastline just a short distance from the town centre.
• Dungarvan – Explore the wider town’s historic streets, shops, and waterfront.
• Ballysaggartmore Towers – A short drive away, these dramatic stone towers provide striking photo opportunities.

Whether drawn by the building’s historic timber beams and stone‑lined arches or by the vibrant cultural programme within, the Old Market House offers a multifaceted experience that celebrates Dungarvan’s past, present and creative future.