Westport, Ireland

A Picturesque and Historic Town in the West of Ireland

"An aerial view of a small town nestled in a valley, with a winding river flowing through it, surrounded by rugged, dry mountains in West Yellowstone, Montana. "

Overview

Westport, Ireland Tours

Westport, consistently voted one of the most beautiful towns in Ireland, is a picturesque and historic destination nestled on the shores of Clew Bay. With its elegant Georgian architecture, colorful shopfronts, and tree-lined promenade, Westport exudes a unique charm that has captivated visitors for centuries. The town is situated at the foot of Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain, adding a spiritual and dramatic backdrop to its scenic beauty.

A visit to Westport offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor adventure, and authentic Irish culture. You can explore the grand Westport House, wander through the vibrant town center, or take a scenic bike ride on the Great Western Greenway. The town is also known for its lively pub scene and excellent restaurants, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Westport is a quintessential Irish experience, offering a taste of the country's rugged beauty and friendly hospitality.

Top Things to Do in Westport, Ireland

Explore the Historic Westport House

Visit the magnificent Westport House, a grand 18th-century stately home. Explore the lavish interiors, learn about the famous Browne family (descendants of Grace O'Malley the Pirate Queen), and wander through the beautiful parklands and gardens.

Tip: Westport House often hosts various activities and exhibitions, so check their schedule to see what's on during your visit.

Stroll Around the Town Center and the Octagon

Wander through the heart of Westport, centered around a unique octagonal plaza known as The Octagon. Stroll along the Carrowbeg River and the charming tree-lined promenade (The Mall), admiring the Georgian architecture and the colorful pubs and shops.

Tip: This is the perfect place to grab a coffee or a pint and soak in the lively, friendly atmosphere of the town.

Walk or Cycle a Section of the Great Western Greenway

For an active experience, walk or cycle a section of the Great Western Greenway, a scenic 42-kilometer-long trail built on an old railway line. The trail begins in Westport and follows the stunning coastline of Clew Bay, offering breathtaking views.

Tip: Bike rentals are widely available in Westport, making it easy to enjoy a short, self-guided cycling trip to a nearby village like Murrisk.

Climb or Admire Croagh Patrick

See the famous Croagh Patrick, a mountain of immense spiritual significance where St. Patrick is said to have fasted for 40 days. While a full climb is a rigorous and lengthy pilgrimage, simply admiring its majestic presence from the town or a viewpoint is a powerful experience.

Tip: From the town, you can get a great view of Croagh Patrick. If you want to get closer, you can take a taxi to the base of the mountain to see the statue of St. Patrick and the visitor center.

Discover the National Famine Memorial

Located at the base of Croagh Patrick in Murrisk, the National Famine Memorial is a poignant sculpture of a "coffin ship" dedicated to the victims of the Great Famine. It serves as a powerful reminder of Ireland's difficult past and the mass emigration that resulted from it.

Tip: The monument is a short drive from Westport and is often included as a stop on bus tours.

Experience Traditional Irish Pub Culture

End your day in true Irish fashion by experiencing the legendary pub culture. Westport is known for its excellent pubs, many of which host live traditional Irish music sessions in the evenings.

Tip: Pop into a pub like Matt Molloy's (owned by a member of The Chieftains) for a chance to hear some authentic trad music in a lively, welcoming setting.

Overview