Attractions in County Mayo

Knock Shrine
Knock is Ireland's National Marian Shrine. On the 21st August 1879, Our Lady, Saint Joseph and Saint John the Evangelist appeared at the south gable of Knock Parish Church. This apparition was witnessed by 15 people. From this miraculous occurance Knock has grown to the status of an internationally recognised Marian Shrine. The personal pilgrimage of Pope John Paul II has inspired an even greater devotion to the Shrine. From April 26 to October 11 1998 there are seven public masses daily, public ceremonies on Sundays at 14:30 and weekdays at 14:15. The Knock Novena is held annually from August 14 to 22 with masses twice daily at 15:00 and 20:30. Other facilities at Knock include Youth Ministry, Counselling Services and Saint John's Day Care Centre. Visit Knock Shrine website

Knock Folk Museum
Knock Folk Museum documents the story of the Knock Apparition of 1879 and places it in the context of life at that time.

Permanent displays range from religion, fishing, farming, crafts, education, housing, clothing and transport.
Visit Knock Folk Museum website

Clare Island Safaris
Clare Island Safaris will lead you to the many hidden treasures which lie on this spectacularly beautiful island at the mouth of Clew Bay. Things to see include Grace O'Malley's Castle, a 5,000 year old Megalithic tomb, 45 Fulachta Fiadh (Bronze Age cooking sites), a Pre-Christian standing stone, 12th century Cistercian Abbey, Famine and pre-Famine tillage ridges, huge sea-bird colonies and dramatic cliff scenery. View Clare Island Safaris website

Tir Na nOg Venture Fun Park
'Tír na nÓg' translates into the land of youth and the fun-park aptly describes the enchanting play area for children aged 3-13 years.

The park is set in scenic surroundings complete with picnic tables, toilet facilities and all play structures are made from natural environmentally friendly materials.
Visit Tir Na nOg Venture Fun Park website

Clare Island
Clare Island, at the mouth of Clew Bay, is Mayo's only offshore island with a regular ferry service. In fine weather, the island offers some beautiful views: southward towards Connemara, eastward across Clew Bay, and north to Achill. A 15th century tower, overlooking the harbour, was once the stronghold of seafaring Granuaile, the pirate queen. According to local legend, she is buried on the island. Clare Island has many other historic remains and varied flora and fauna. View Clare Island website

Moy Valley
The Moy Valley is a haven of natural and unspoilt beauty that combines a unique blend of rugged mountains, lakes, sea and the River Moy, world famous for its salmon. The entire valley is renowned for its angling with over 100 game and course fishing waters from which to choose. The Moy Valley is bound by two mountain ranges, the Ox to the east, and Nephin to the west. Ideal for walking holidays, there are magnificent routes along the scenic North Mayo coast, and theme walks such as the great Famine Walk at Bonniconlon and the Sculpture Trail along the North Coast. Trained guides accompany walkers, giving commentaries on the heritage. Visit Moy Valley website

Kiltimagh The Artisan Village
Kiltimagh, the Artisan Village and birthplace of Rafteiri the blind Irish poet, lies in the very heart of the West of Ireland. Much of its bygone charm as a bustling market town is still evident in the architectural outline of the town, the Market Square and the shop facades. The trades and crafts of the many artisans once found there are being revived to provide a living, historical experience. Among the many interesting attractions to visit in Kiltimagh are: The Town Museum, the Stationmaster's House Arts Exhibition Centre and the Sculpture Park, all to be found in the grounds of the tastefully restored old railway station, and well worth a visit. Activities include angling, walking, cycling and golf. View Kiltimagh website

Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre
A unique centre allowing you to step back in time to 1892 when Mother Agnes, an Irish Sister of Charity came to Foxford and set up the Woollen Mill. You can trace her determined struggle to establish the mill. The Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre also incorporates the Mill Shop, Olde Mill Restaurant, Jewellery Workshop, Woodcrafting, Art Galleries and much more. Facilities include tourist information office, bureau de change, baby changing facilities and coach and car parking. There are tours in Irish, French, German and Italian and they run every 20 minutes.
View Foxford Woollen Mills website

Quiet Man Heritage Cottage
This is a novel concept which will give the visitor a total Quiet Man experience. Cong was the location for most of the filming of the film the Quiet Man. The heritage cottage might be described as a typical Irish cottage of the 1920s. It's four poster bed, thatched roof, emerald green half door and white washed front combine to charm all those who visit it. The Archaeological and Historical Interpretative Centre houses a permanent exhibition detailing the immense wealth of archaeological and historical material in the Cong area. An must for all Quiet Man enthusiasts and film buffs. Facilities include an audio visual show, souvenir shop and parking. Visit Quiet Man Cottage website

Westport House And Country Park
Westport House and Country Park is generally regarded as one of Ireland's most beautiful and historic homes and is located in a magnificent setting. It is located on the shores of Clew Bay between Westport Town, Westport Quay and Westport Golf Course.

The original house was built in 1685 by Colonel John Browne and his wife Maud Bourke, ancestors of the present family. View Westport House website

Cong
Cong, in County Mayo, is a charming village which was once a significant religious centre. One of its most impressive sites is the ruin of Cong Abbey, founded in the 12th century. South of Cong village is Ashford Castle, rebuilt in Gothic Revival style by Lord Ardilaun of the Guinness family - it is now a luxurious hotel. View Cong website

Atlantic Adventure Centre
This is a purpose built outdoor pursuits facility. They seek to develop the personal development of young people.The types of courses vary from water sports to dry land activities. All safety equipment for water sports such as wet suits, buoyancy aids etc. will be provided. As are helmets and harnesses for rock climbing. Price list depend on the duration of the course and these vary from one day to five day and prices range from €15.24 to €124.43. There are a number of personal items that should be brought to the centre a list is available. Watersports: Canoeing, Sea Kayaking, Canadian Canoeing, Beginners Windsurfing, Surfing, Sailing, Boogies Boarding, Pier Jumping, Paddle Boating. Visit Atlantic Advenutre Centre website