Arbutus Hotel celebrates 100 years in business

The Arbutus Hotel on College Street is celebrating a landmark centenary this month, marking 100 years of continuous family ownership and service in Killarney.

The hotel’s story began back in 1926 when Tim Buckley and his wife Julia first opened its doors. Having saved the funds to purchase the property Tim had long admired, the couple established a business that would go on to become one of the town’s best-loved hospitality institutions.
A century later, a direct link back to the couple remains intact throughout the building. Much of the original Celtic Deco furniture and fittings chosen by Tim are still on display for guests today.
The milestone was celebrated during a special gathering hosted at the hotel on Wednesday, July 15. Members of the Buckley family reflected on the establishment’s rich history and what reaching 100 years of family stewardship means for both the hotel and the local community, drawing warm applause from those in attendance.
The event was attended by local business leaders as well as Mayor of Killarney Cllr John O’Donoghue, who praised the ongoing contribution of long-standing local enterprises. Killarney Chamber of Tourism & Commerce President Johnny McGuire paid tribute to the Buckley family and the hotel’s remarkable legacy.
“The Arbutus is woven into the story of this town,” he said. “To celebrate their centenary among our own members felt entirely right, and today’s turnout shows the strength of the Chamber network here in Killarney.”

New art exhibition at Killarney House

Killarney House & Gardens will host a new exhibition this August celebrating the landscapes, heritage, and character of County Kerry through the eyes of local artists.

Titled Natural Kerry, the exhibition runs from August 2 to August 28, featuring a diverse collection of original artworks inspired by the county’s dramatic mountain ranges, lakes, and historic landmarks.
Former Mayor of Killarney and Chairperson of Killarney Tidy Towns, Michael Gleeson, will officially open the exhibition on Saturday, August 8 at 3:00pm.
Members of the public are invited to attend the official launch, where refreshments will be served.
The featured works have been created by members of the Tralee Art Group, one of Kerry’s longest-established visual arts organisations, founded in 1979.
Caitriona Foley, Chairperson of the group, expressed excitement about returning to the historic Killarney venue and extended sincere thanks to Diana Fawsitt, Pat Dawson, and the local staff at Killarney House & Gardens for their support in staging the event.
Original artworks and prints displayed throughout the residency will be available for purchase.