Things to Do in Tralee When It Rains - Unique Kerry Experience!

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Let’s be honest, if you’re visiting Tralee or anywhere in the Kingdom of Kerry or indeed Ireland, a bit of rain is all part of the charm (and almost guaranteed!). When the weather turns damp and your outdoor plans fall through, why not try something completely different — indoors and hands-on? That’s where my Woodturning Experiences and Woodturning Tuition come in. Read on and revisited the links, they are also at the end of the post.

Take a quick look inside my workshop: Here’s what one of my woodturning sessions looks like — a fun and hands-on way to spend a rainy afternoon in Tralee. I have added a new video to my Experiences page too, you can visit that through the link above.

What is the Difference between them?

In a nutshell:

  • Woodturning Experiences are designed for complete novices. It’s a relaxed, hands-on activity that gives you a feel for the craft — no pressure, just fun.
  • Woodturning Tuition is for those who are more serious about getting started in Woodturning. It includes more in-depth instruction, techniques, and theory for those who want to continue beyond a one-off visit.

Discover the Art of Woodturning in the Heart of Kerry

colouring a finial for a Christmas Tree ornament

Nestled just outside Tralee town, my woodturning studio is a warm, creative yet busy space where visitors and locals alike can try their hand at shaping or embellishing beautiful objects from wood. Whether it’s your first time near a woodturning lathe or you’ve dabbled in woodworking before, my one-on-one sessions are tailored to your pace, interests, and skill level.

And yes, no experience is needed. Just curiosity.

What to Expect from a Woodturning Experience

  • 🪵 A hands-on, guided introduction to the craft of woodturning

  • ✨ All wood & materials supplied

  • 🔧 Use of certain tools, safety equipment provided

  • 💡 Learn the basics of sanding, embellishing & finishing

  • 🎁 Leave with a handcrafted piece you’ve worked on yourself

Like what you're reading? You can buy me a coffee — sure it’s cheaper than a pint!

Buy Me A Coffee

What to Expect from Woodturning Tuition

🧠 A structured introduction to woodturning with a focus on learning and understanding

🪵 Work with a selection of woods and learn how to prepare them

🔧 Instruction on tool selection, sharpening, and safe lathe operation

📐 Learn key techniques including roughing out, shaping, sanding, and finishing

📚 Includes theoretical knowledge: wood grain, tool angles, and lathe speeds

🎓 Ideal for beginners who want to take up woodturning properly and avoid costly mistakes

turning a small decoration finial detail, fine skilled work on a lathe

These sessions aren’t large group workshops — they’re personal, practical, and taught by someone who works with wood every day (that’s me). I focus on helping you get the most from your time, whether you're interested in trying something new or looking for a memorable gift experience.

Ideal for Tourists, Rainy Day Explorers, and Craft Lovers

County Kerry has plenty to offer, even when the skies open up. But if you want more than just waiting out the weather, this is a chance to do something memorable, make something with your hands, and learn a truly Irish craft.

My classes also make a fantastic rainy-day experience for:

  • Couples looking for something different to do together

  • Parents and teens (age 16+) wanting to try a new skill

  • Craft and maker fans visiting Kerry

  • Anyone curious about how things are made — and want to give it a go

  • Also great as Gift Ideas, Gift Vouchers are available!

Booking and Availability

My session times start at 10am sharp, by appointment only but I may be able to cater for short notice bookings. You can book for yourself or purchase a gift voucher for someone else.
Most Experiences last 2–3 hours and all materials are included.

Tution Classes last 4-5 hours depending on your choice.

🎨  Visit Woodturning Experience page here for details, availability, and prices.

🛠️ Visit Woodturning Tuition page here for details, availability, and prices.

Don't Let the Rain Ruin Your Day — Turn It Into Something Beautiful

So if you’re stuck wondering what to do in Tralee when it rains, consider stepping off the beaten path. You might just find yourself hooked on woodturning.

Support an Artisan?
If you enjoyed this post but won’t be joining me in Kerry on a rainy day, you can still support my work by clicking the button below. Thank you!


Buy Me A Coffee


Location: Ballyard, Tralee, Co. Kerry, V92 W2H4, Ireland

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