On Ireland’s west coast, along the breathtaking Wild Atlantic Way, lies the beautiful heritage town of Westport. Here you will find all the charm that small Irish towns are famous for - warm locals, gorgeous scenery, and of course awesome food. Within this pretty city, the tree-lined promenade along Carrowbeg River is a must-see highlight, where you can walk by flowering shrubs, old-fashioned benches, and bridges! Beyond the city, of course, you have rich pickings, from exploring the famous Irish Atlantic coastline and surrounding historic landmarks to climbing up the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick and exciting outdoor adventure activities like kayaking. Read on to find out the many things to do in Westport, Ireland to get a real feel of this city.
1. Be amazed at the grandeur of Westport House (from USD 19.0)
The city’s most famous landmark, Westport House has grandiose interiors and breathtaking natural surroundings that make it an unmissable destination! Built in the 18th century, this historic house is choc-a-bloc with artistic treasures you can marvel at like Waterford cut-glass chandeliers, hand-painted murals on ceilings and walls, portraits by notable Irish painters, as well as plush antique furniture and furnishings that will leave you wonderstruck. Walk around the grounds to enjoy its lush gardens and the sweeping landscapes of Clew Bay and the Atlantic Ocean coastline. Use this self-guided tour to explore the house and its landscaped gardens at your pace.
Westport House and Gardens Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 to 6 hours
2. Pay your respects at Great Famine National Monument
This striking monument is a reminder of the suffering that Irish citizens underwent between 1845 and 1849 during the Great Famine. Stark and sombre, this sculpture, created by John Behan, depicts a ship shaped like a coffin with skeletons wreathed across its masts. You will be able to spot the sculpture at the foot of the Croagh Patrick. Panoramic views of Clew Bay are a bonus.
Great Famine National Monument
Address: 11 Woodpark Ave, The Quay, Westport, Co. Mayo, F28 XK73, Ireland
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
3. Let your kids go crazy at The Wild West
Posted by The Wild West Ltd on Thursday, 1 October 2015
Bring your children to this imaginative Wild West-themed indoor play area-cum-cafe. The fun setting makes it a different experience plus kids can also participate in crafts sessions, activities like face-painting, or just spend time in the sensory room. Be sure to check out Buffalo Cafe’s scrumptious food, which includes a separate menu for the kids.
The Wild West Indoor Play Village
Address: Westpoint Shopping Complex, Westport
Website: The Wild West Indoor Play Village
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 8 EUR/ 9 USD
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4. Go cycling or walking along Great Western Greenway for unparalleled views
Explore the stunning vistas around Westport with a cycling or hiking trip on Great Western Greenway, Built along a part of a former rail route, this is Ireland’s longest off-road walking and cycling trail, and goes from Westport to the picturesque town of Achill at a distance of around 43.5 km (27 mi). Much of the trail is segregated safely from traffic and offers scenic views of the Atlantic seascapes and lush greenery of the mountains. Don’t be put out by the idea of biking all the way - you can go on partial rides to one of the in-between cities and take the bus back.
Great Western Greenway
Address: Mayo, Ireland
Website: Great Western Greenway
5. Enjoy a musical at Town Hall Theatre Westport
Located centrally, Town Hall Theatre Westport is an intimate theatre facility seating just over 200 people that hosts arts events and performances, both amateur and professional, all year round. You can choose from plays/dramas, musicals, dance shows, film screenings, children’s events, and concerts. The tiered seating gives good sight lines of the stage and puts you close to the action. After the show, head to the cosy bar on the first floor and enjoy views of the city.
Town Hall Theatre Westport
Address: Octagon, Westport
Website: Town Hall Theatre Westport
6. Take a ferry tour with Clare Island Ferry Company
Book a ferry ride with Clare Island Ferry Company and feast your eyes on some of the most spectacular landscapes of the area. This ferry operator offers trips between Clare Island and Roonagh, all through the year. Though the ride is short, you can enjoy the magnificent coastline which will cover Achill Island, the islands of Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick, and the Nephin mountain range. Use the ferry trip to visit the captivating Clare Island where you will find the castle of the fierce Pirate Queen Grace O’ Malley.
Clare Island Ferry Company
Address: Westport, Ireland
Website: Clare Island Ferry Company
Price: 17 EUR/19 USD
7. Gallop through a beach on horseback with Carrowholly Stables
Riding a horse through gorgeous beaches or mountainous trails is a dreamy way to take in Westport’s unforgettable natural beauty. Located just on the outskirts of Westport, Carrowholly Stables offers a variety of riding experiences, whether you are a novice or an expert rider. You can ride through the beaches of Clew Bay or up Mulranny or simply enjoy a pony camp. Groups are led by an experienced guide who will ensure you have a safe and comfortable ride.
Carrowholly Stables & Trekking Centre
Address:Carrowholly, Westport
Website: Carrowholly Stables & Trekking Centre
Price: 30 EUR/ 33 USD
8. Camp out at the beautiful historic grounds of Westport House Caravan & Camping Park
Posted by Westport House on Friday, 16 February 2018
Set up your tent or your caravan in the expansive and picturesque grounds of Westport House. Enjoy the historical surroundings, the beautifully landscaped gardens, and a whole host of attractions in addition to the historic home like Pirate Adventure Park for kids and Adventure Activity Centre where you’ll find archery, zip lines, and more, all within the same complex. The camping site offers numerous facilities like WiFi, a recreation room, picnic, and washing up areas so you’ll be comfortable. For hot meals and refreshments, head to Gracy’s Bar and Cafe.
Westport House Caravan and Camping Park
Address: Westport House Demense, Golf Course Road, Westport
Website: Westport House Caravan & Camping Park
Price: From 12.50 EUR/14 USD
9. Explore local artists' work at The Quay Gallery
Black Friday at The Quay Gallery. Specials on selected work all weekend.
Posted by The Quay Gallery on Friday, 24 November 2017
An art gallery with a difference, The Quay Gallery is run by three artists and showcases not only their own works but also works by other local artists. It offers an interactive experience with the artist often being on site to chat. There’s also a store inside that stocks an eclectic mix of handmade items from local artists making it a perfect stop to buy your souvenirs.
The Quay Gallery
Address: The Quay, Cloonmonad, Westport
Website: The Quay Gallery
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 1pm, 2pm - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
10. Go on a pony trek with Drummindoo Stud
Posted by Drummindoo Stud on Saturday, 19 May 2018
Explore the captivating Irish countryside on horseback and enjoy the scenery around you from a different perspective. Drummindoo Stud offers a variety of horse riding tours including basic riding training, pony trekking, beach rides, pony camps, and trail rides as well as Western riding. The equestrian centre also has an indoor riding arena, a gallop track, and an outdoor menage. Led by an experienced guide, you will enjoy an invigorating ride plus you get to know more the Irish landmarks around you.
Drummindoo Stud
Address: Knockranny, Westport
Website: Drummindoo Stud
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
11. Uncover local historical facts at Clew Bay Heritage Centre Ltd
Posted by Clew Bay Heritage Centre on Sunday, 31 August 2014
Though small, this museum is brimming with artefacts that help you understand the history of Westport from pre-Christian times to the present time. The museum is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who will share insights into the rich historic past of the area. The museum offers guided walks twice a week during July and August, and other times by appointment. It also has a genealogical service where you can access historical records.
Clew Bay Heritage Centre Ltd
Address: The Quay, Rosbeg, Westport
Website: Clew Bay Heritage Centre Ltd
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10:30am - 2pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 3 EUR/ 3 USD; Walks: 5 EUR/6 USD
12. See the seal colony on a Westport Cruise tour
Posted by Westport Cruises on Wednesday, 10 July 2019
Get on board a Westport Cruises tour that runs between May and October to explore Clew Bay up close. The cruise is helmed by a knowledgeable local guide who will provide interesting commentary about the Bay and its history. You will pass by landmark islands in the vicinity. Get to see the seal colony and get up-close with the seals of Clew Bay! Croagh Patrick, John Lennon’s Island, and the site of the Achill disaster are other major stops.
Westport Cruises
Address: The Quay, Cloonmonad, Westport
Website: Westport Cruises
Price: 20 EUR/ 22 USD
13. Tee off at Westport Golf Club's magnificent grounds
Enjoy the rolling hills of Ireland in their full glory by heading out for a round of golf at Westport Golf Club. This 250-acre (101 ha) golf course sits at the foot of Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick with a magnificent view of the Clew Bay and Clare Island. The 18-hole championship golf course is Par 74 with wide fairways and holes along the coastline that are among the most challenging and exciting! The views remain spectacular all through but are most breathtaking between holes 11 to 16.
Westport Golf Club
Address: Carrowholly, Westport
Website: Westport Golf Club
14. Appreciate the dramatic vistas of Ballycroy National Park
Spread over 117 sq. km (15,000 ha), Ballycroy National Park is the third-largest national park of Ireland and is a 45-minute ride away from Westport. Home to one of the largest active blanket bog (peatland) of Western Europe, the park’s unique ecology has resulted in diverse landscapes. Its atmospheric beauty and majestic vistas make it a must-visit destination. Start at the visitor center where you will find informative displays about the park and help in planning your visit. There are several picturesque trails to choose from, with the easiest ones being the Tóchar Daithí Bán Trail, which loops around the Visitor Centre, and the Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail, which is a looped 2 km (1.2 mi) boardwalk route across the bog with the return along a serene seashore. Don’t miss out on refreshing yourself with Ginger & Wild café’s delicious pastries!
Ballycroy National Park
Address: Ballycroy, Westport
Website: Ballycroy National Park
15. Design your own thrilling vacation with The Adventure Island Collanmore Island
If you want to spend your days in Westport getting an adrenaline rush, then The Adventure Island is for you! Create a custom plan filled with the kind of outdoor recreation you want whether on the water - kayaking, kite surfing or boating - or on land like archery, biking, or trekking. You also have the option of hiring out Collanmore Island Lodge which gives you the opportunity to be on an island entirely by yourself!
The Adventure Island Collanmore Island
Address: Collanmore Island
16. Honour the Irish hero at Mac Bride 1916 Memorial
This monument is a tribute to one of the heroes of the Irish struggle for Independence, Major John MacBride. Hailing from Westport, Major MacBride was an Irish nationalist executed by the British for his role in the 1916 Easter Rising which was a key rebellion against the British government. The memorial is located along the river and is a reminder of his struggle and sacrifice.
17. Savour delicious seafood at An Port Mór Restaurant
Experience the best seafood Westport can offer at this intimate and charming restaurant. Set up by an award-winning chef, the restaurant offers a delectable menu of creative dishes with a great deal of attention on its presentation and its flavours. Service is top-notch and the atmosphere is friendly and bistro-like. Signature dishes to try include all their local fish specialities, pot-roasted pigs cheeks with Kelly’s black pudding with apple and vanilla sauce, smoked duck breast, and Surf and Turf. Seating is limited so make sure to book ahead.
An Port Mór Restaurant
Address: 1 Brewery Place, Westport
Website: An Port Mór Restaurant
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 5pm - 9pm (closed on Sun)
18. Sample the nightlife at Henehans Late Bar
Posted by Henehan's on Friday, 5 January 2018
Looking for a place to enjoy a night of live music, dancing and great cocktails? Then Henehans Late Bar will get you grooving. Located in the heart of the city, the bar has a fun atmosphere and a buzzing vibe with live music Thursdays through Sundays. You’ll find popular local DJs frequently hosting shows here with the music ranging from disco tunes and house classics to old school dance music! Their cocktail menu is excellent so do try out their house drinks!
Henehans Late Bar
Address: 77-79 Bridge St, Cahernamart, Westport
Website: Henehans Late Bar
Opening hours: Tue - Wed, Fri - Sat: 4pm - 2am; Thu: 4pm - 12am; Sun: 4pm - 1am (closed on Mon)
19. Shop for all your needs at Westpoint Shopping Centre
Retail
Posted by Westpoint Shopping Centre on Wednesday, 10 July 2013
This shopping centre is one of the biggest in Westport. Located on Altamount Street, there are several retail outlets ranging from departmental stores like Tesco and Boots to cafes and fresh vegetables stalls. Stop by to replenish your essentials, go for some leisure retail shopping, or try out the various food establishments here.
Westpoint Shopping Centre
Address: 4 Altamount St, Knockranny, Westport
Website: Westpoint Shopping Centre
20. Go on a cycling adventure on an electric bike from Clew Bay Bike Hire
Posted by Clew Bay Bike on Friday, 14 April 2017
Cycling through the Great Western Greenway is among the best ways to soak in the stunning scenic views of the Irish Atlantic coastline. Pick out one of Clew Bay Bike Hire’s packages that offer a great combination of cycling fun and convenience. The bike provider offers outbound or return shuttle service so you can cycle as much as you want. You can opt from four different packages with different levels of flexibility. Additionally, their free roadside assistance means you’ll never be stuck midway!
Clew Bay Bike Hire
Address: Clew Bay Bike Hire, Westport
Website: Clew Bay Bike Hire
21. Explore inland rivers with a Paddle and Pedal tour
Kayak tour Wednesday morning 11am. Who's coming ? Book your place 0876808955 david@paddleandpedal.ie
Posted by Paddle and Pedal on Sunday, 21 July 2019
Kayaking on the famous Moy River is a special experience that is not to be missed so head to Ballina, a town which is a short distance away from Westport! Book a kayaking tour with Paddle and Pedal. This will take you up the river going through the Belleek Forest along Nimmo’s Canal which hosts some of the most amazing marine wildlife like kingfishers and even seals! You will also pass through Ridge Pool and Crete Boom as you kayak back into town.
Paddle and Pedal
Address: The Quay, Ballina
Website: Paddle and Pedal
Price: 35 EUR/ 39 USD
See the best of Wesport
A visit to one of Ireland’s small towns is a must to experience its charm. Westport is a great option not only for its welcoming locals and delightful ambience, but also because it is a fantastic base to explore the famed Irish west coast and Mayo County. You’ll be off to a wonderful start with these things to do in Westport, Ireland!
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