Looking for things to do when you arrive in County Mayo this summer? Look no further than the fascinating world of museums and heritage centres that await. Here are just a few:
The Quiet Man Cottage
In 1951, “The Quiet Man” starring John Wayne was released and was said to be the greatest of John Ford’s films. It was set in beautiful western Ireland with filming centred in Cong village on the Mayo-Galway border. The ground floor of the lodge has been designed as a precise replica of ‘White-o-Mornin’ Cottage from the film.
Country Life Museum
The award-winning museum is all about discovering the story of rural Ireland between 1850 and 1950; a history that older visitors will remember clearly and enjoy reminiscing. Suitable for all ages, the museum is a must-visit attraction for everyone’s list. This is a national collection, that is both comprehensive and unique, presented in an interesting and interactive way – not just dull, dusty displays.
Mayo Abbey
Mayo Abbey is located in the heart of County Mayo. It has a rural beauty that is purely reminiscent of older Ireland. It lies hidden from the main highway in an area known as the “Mayo Plain” with ancient stone walls. The peace and tranquillity of this place belies his extraordinary past as one of the most important monastery sites in Western Europe, founded by St. Colman in AD 668.
Clew Bay Heritage Centre
Situated in a 19th-century structure, the Clew Bay Heritage Centre, details the history of Westport and the Clew Bay area from the era before Christianity to the present. You’ll find objects, documents and photos connected to the general Westport area and these provide a great platform for presenting local history and tradition. Choose Irish Airports for your trip to Mayo, like https://irelandwestairport.com/
Kiltimagh Railroad Museum
This museum in Kiltimagh is closely tied to the changing fate of the city. For many decades, Kiltimagh was linked with poverty and deprivation. Without work, families were moved apart because the youth of the town were forced to leave the area to find work. The community experienced its ups and downs in the 1980s: houses were vacant and closed with ‘For sale’ signs everywhere. The Railway Station, which used to be a centre of activity, was neglected, its depressed and abandoned situation echoed the community.
The station area has been transformed and turned into a museum in 1989, coinciding perfectly with the similar transformation of the town into a bustling, vibrant and growing local community.
Enniscoe Museum
This property was once named the last remaining grand house in North Mayo and is a beautiful and opulent Georgian manor home in the rural area of Enniscoe overlooking Lough Conn, in County Mayo in Western Ireland – an area famous for its wild and pure landscapes, and its peaceful vibe and open, friendly people. Enniscoe House is located in a park and surrounded by mature forests, where a path leads to the lake. You might like to amble around the Victorian garden or hire a boat and try your hand at fishing on the Lough Conn.
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