Top 5 things to do in Westport

So you’re thinking of booking that trip to Westport you have always dreamed of? Or have you booked and are just looking for some top tips on things to do in Westport while you are here?

Well let Westport Bike Shop fill you in on what we think are 5 of the best things to do in Westport right now! *Full Disclosure, one of these may just involve bike hire 😛

1. Climb Croagh Patrick

There was only one place to start! Revered as a holy site, the famous mountain Croagh Patrick offers a challenging climb that rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Clew Bay and the surrounding countryside.

Recently installed steps make things safer than days gone by all the while making sure the mountain will be accessible for years to come. A special shout out to the hard work of all involved. Not an easy undertaking!

You can get to the site with ease via car, walking (albeit a long one) or by cycling along the designated cycle way as far as the beautiful village of Murrisk. There is an on-site car park which includes an area to lock a bike if needed. In the car park there is also a public bathroom and there is a cafe for those looking to put the feet up!

Once you have finished your hike and had safe passage back down you can pop into the famous Campbells pub where people have been known to grab a tasty pint of Guinness.

Whether you’re seeking some spiritual solace or an adventurous hike, the Holy mountain of Croagh Patrick is a must-visit.

*BONUS ATTRACTION* While in Murrisk Village you can also visit several significant archaeological sites, a 15th century Abbey and a national memorial commemorating the Irish Famine!

2. Visit Westport Estate and Gardens

This attraction is a little closer to home and just a short spin/walk away from the Westport Bike Shop.

Visiting the estate is a step back in time with the stunning Westport House, an 18th-century manor set in lush gardens with the Carrowbeg River running through it out to Westport Harbour. Explore the historic rooms, enjoy a picnic in the gardens, or take part in the many family-friendly activities available on the estate.

There is also a food truck on the grounds where you can stop off for coffee and treats or a light bite while looking down toward the house.

It is a beautiful stop off while in Westport and a must see if you have the time.

Bear in mind, while the grounds of the house are free to roam around, there are certain fees for activities and entering the house itself.

3. Blast off on a Rib around Clew Bay

Want to explore the West Coast from a different vantage point? Why not head out to sea on a trip of a lifetime!

Westport Sea Safari is a new venture for Westport and offers a high octane rib ride from Westport’s Harbour. Speed along and get extraordinary views of Croagh Patrick and the Mayo coastline all while venturing through Clew Bays 365 Islands.

You will see wildlife, Inis Gort Lighthouse, Newport Bay and more and if you are lucky you might be joined by some dolphins on your spin.

The spaces are limited on this adrenalin packed tour so be sure to book your seat to avoid disappointment.

They have also added in a full day boat charter offering where you can choose a bespoke itinerary visiting the likes of Clare Island for a day trip or hit towards Achill Island.

Book a Boat Trip here!

Great Western Greenway to Achill Island - Cycle Routes in Westport

4. Cycle the Great Western Greenway

This activity goes without saying really and should probably be number 1, but we didn’t want to seem biased. 😛

You can’t visit our beautiful town without taking a spin down the Great Western Greenway from Westport.

And this is where Westport Bike Shop comes in! We have a bike to suit all needs and we will guide you with our expert knowledge on where to stop off, what to do on your trip and the best attractions to hit up.

The Greenway travels along what was the old Westport to Achill Island Railway and offers safe cycling and walking space.

On the Greenway, you can choose to go as far as you like.

For a shorter spin, go to the beautiful town of Newport which is Westport’s neighbor. It is an easy spin and you can easily go in and out in a day and still have time for a spot of coffee or food in Newport. Some points of interest in the town are a magnificent 19th century red sandstone viaduct; the ancestral home of Princess Grace of Monaco; a beautiful Romanesque church, housing the last stained glass window designed by Harry Clarke among others.
If you want to go further the next stop is Mulranny. This picturesque village offers stunning panoramic views over the vast seascape of Clew Bay, it’s archipelago of drowned drumlin islands, the vast Nephin mountain range and Bellacragher Bay. This place is a goldmine for the budding photographers of this world!
There’s a shop, hotel and a bar in the village if you wanted to stop off for some refreshments and then it’s a decision on whether to hit for the beautiful Achill Island or not.
Achill Island is the final stop on the Greenway and recently has had an extra 5km of cycleway added to the Island itself meaning exploring has just got easier.
Achill has some fantastic sites to visit like Keem Bay, the Deserted Village at Slievemore, the remote Annagh, a beauty spot featuring a beach and the lowest corrie lake in Ireland, and which is accessible only to hillwalkers or sailors, the Atlantic Drive (Maybe take a car for this one!) and much more.
There are also shops, hotels and bars on the Island for those in need of a pick me up!

Those 3 items only scratch the surface of what’s on offer on the Greenway from Westport to Achill. It will need a post of it’s own for a full run down, but they give you a feel of what’s on offer!

With our bike hire you can choose between Electric Bikes, Hybrids, Gravel, Kids Bikes and trailers. You also get all your helmets and bike locks included.

You can also choose from Half day to One full weeks hire with great value bike hire available the longer you book for.

And if you only plan on going one way to Achill Island you can always pre book our shuttle bus which will pick you and your bike up and get you back to Westport stress free in time for dinner!

Check Bike Hire availability here

5. Enjoy the Local Cuisine and Trad Bars

When you are finished with the bikes it’s time for a well needed refuel! Westport Town has some amazing cafes, bars and restaurants to take in.

There are a huge array of Cafes and Restaurants, it all depends on what type of grub you are after. I am going to name 3 in each category but don’t take this as favoritism!

Be sure to comment below with your favourite places!

Places in Westport for Food

For coffee and treats you have This Must be the Place at the top of Bridge Street, Krēm Gelateria & Cafe on Bridge Street or Marlene Chocolate Shop on James Street to name a quick few.

If you are after a more substantial bite you have Servd on Bridge Street for some Brunch or Lunch items, Coveys on Castlebar Street or our neighbours the Castlecourt Hotel where you will pick up a great feed in May’s Bistro.

For fine dining in the evening you again have a great variety with the award winning An Port Mór, the quaint La Bella Vita Italian on High Street or a restaurant with a view, The Towers out the Quay.

Places to get a Drink

The famous Matt Molloys on Bridge Street (pictured above) is going to be first on every list but a few more notable mentions for some craic agus ceoil would be:

Its neighbour The Porter House where you will get a trad session most days along with some a great pint of Guinness
The Old Grainstore – A beautiful historic pub with an outdoor area out the back. “Pub of the year Mayo 2023” & has a fine Whiskey Bar
Moran’s Bridge Street – A pub like no other in Westport. A quaint spot which harks back to days of old with its shop out to the front and doorway through to the back area. Well worth a visit and a great pint awaits.

In conclusion

You won’t be stuck for things to do when you visit Westport and you sure won’t be left disappointed. We hope you enjoyed our picks and if you are visiting Westport be sure to check them out.

If we missed something or you want to add your own thoughts leave us a comment, we would love to hear from you!

Chat soon and stay tuned for our next post!