Westport

Westport is a planned settlement in County Mayo built around the Carrowbeg River, featuring stone bridges and tree-lined streets that shape the town's character. The architecture follows a Georgian layout with symmetrical squares and well-proportioned buildings, creating a unified visual identity throughout.

The town evolved from a 16th-century castle called Cathair na Mart and was redesigned as a Georgian planned settlement by architect James Wyatt in the late 18th century. This deliberate restructuring transformed it into an economic center for the region.

Westport serves as a cultural hub for the region, hosting regular music events and art exhibitions in its various venues and public spaces. Locals and visitors gather along The Mall and by the riverside, where the town's artistic life unfolds in a relaxed, social atmosphere.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paved streets invite exploration but longer routes through town require sturdy footwear. For exploring the wider landscape, the Great Western Greenway offers a dedicated path for cycling and walking that connects to nearby destinations.

The site where Westport House now stands was once home to Grace O'Malley's castle, the legendary pirate and leader whose story runs deep in this coastal region. The current mansion offers views across Clew Bay and its numerous islands, linking past and present at this historically charged location.

Location: County Mayo

Elevation above the sea: 80 m

Website: http://westporttc.ie

GPS coordinates: 53.80006,-9.52022

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:43