Places to Visit

From Ballintubber runs the old pilgrim road to Croagh Patrick, some 22 miles away. The road is known as Tóchar Phádraic, after Ireland's patron saint. Tóchar Phádraic pre-dates Christianity and was probably built around 350AD, as the main route from Cruachán (seat of the kings of Connaught) to Cruachán Aigle, the pagan name for Croagh Patrick. Guided walks can be arranged from Ballintubber.

Westport House is one of Ireland's most beautiful and historic homes. Built in 1730 on the ruins of a former castle of the legendary Irish pirate queen Grace O'Malley and complete with original architecture and antiques. It is still home to her direct descendants, the Eleventh Marquess of Sligo and his family. Within the house there are thirty rooms, entrance halls and dungeons on show, plus three comprehensive exhibitions, including Ireland’s foremost exhibition on pirate queen Grace O’Malley and a waxworks display of Ireland’s leading writers, artists and musicians who visited Westport House.

Kiltimagh Pet Farm is located on 12 acres, and has over 30 different species of animals and birds, which include all the usual farm animals such as chickens, ducks, sheep, as well as several breeds of fancy exotic birds. There are also llamas, rhea, pygmy goats, cotton-eared marmoset monkies, wallabies and various reptiles, African-spurred tortoises which are the third largest breed of tortoise in the world. There is also the opportunity for children to have pony rides and play in the play area. There are often baby animals such as rabbitts, chicks and ducks that the children can cuddle if they wish.

Welcome to a place of ancient history, Patrick's sacred mountain, and a rich vein of archaeological heritage. Croagh Patrick is situated five miles from the picturesque town of Westport and the mountain's conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. Magnificent views of Clew Bay and the surrounding south Mayo countryside are to be had from all stages of the ascent of the mountain. Follow the steps of Patrick and in doing so meet people from far and near. Teach na Miasa, The Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre, is situated in Murrisk on the Pilgrim's path at the base of Croagh Patrick mountain and opposite the National Famine Monument. Make sure to call and visit.

The Story of Knock began on the 21st August 1879 when Our Lady, St. Joseph and St. John the Evangelist appeared at the south gable of Knock Parish Church. The apparition was witnessed by fifteen people, young and old. From this miraculous Apparition Knock has grown to the status of an internationally recognised Marian Shrine. The personal pilgrimage of Pope John Paul II in 1979, commemorating the centenary of the apparition, inspired an even greater devotion to the Shrine and endorsed the indelible seal of Vatican approval. Mother Teresa of Calcutta visited the Shrine in June of 1993. One and a half million pilgrims visit the Shrine annually.