10 Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Western Ireland That You Shouldn't Miss

Buried beneath the Connemara Mountain lies a way of life long abandoned and almost forgotten just waiting for you to explore! Let the team at Glengowla Mines lead you on a journey of discovery of how lead and silver were mined from the roots of the Connemara Mountains in the 1800’s. The constant dripping of water, the ‘miners breath’ and if you are brave enough - a moment of darkness will set the scene! Delve into the depths of Glengowla mines where you can explore the caverns of marble studded with lead and silver. Follow the veins of copper pyrite which will lead you to the ‘miners gold’ - Galena. Marvel at the rare and beautiful crystals of quartz and fluorite. Learn of the working conditions the miners worked under before the mines closed in 1865. A firm favourite with adults and children alike is to pan for gold and gems at our gold panning station and keep any gems you find! Not only will you enjoy guided tours of the mines,

Traditional Irish Craft Shop with Tourist information and office services available. All products sold in Úna Bhán Traditional Craft Shop are all locally sourced and guaranteed Irish. Products sold include CDs, Ceramics, Postcards, Photographs, Maps, Jewellery, Confectionary, Magnets, and much, much more. If you want to take home so authentic Irish merchandise from calm and tranquil surroundings, please call into us.

Learn about the history of Belleek Castle & the story of its inhabitants the Knox-Gore family. Lean about the exciting life of Marshall Doran a sailor who made his fortune from smuggling & antique dealing who later became hotelier & restored Belleek Castle in the 1960's. Visitors will see the original Castle & Marshalls additions to the house such as the Spanish Armada Bar (built from salvaged wood from Spanish Armada shipwrecks) and the Medieval Banquet Hall,. The highlight of the tour will be the Marshall Doran Collection! One of the finest collections of antiques, Jurassic Fossils, Medieval weapons and Medieval Armour in Ireland! Other curiosities include the last wolf shot in Connaught & the bed of Grace O'Malley, Ireland's Pirate Queen.

The Michael Davitt Museum is dedicated to the life and achievements of Michael Davitt - father of the Land League, International Humanitarian, Author and Parliamentarian. The Museum is housed in a Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland award winning restored church in which Michael Davitt was baptised. The museum is adjacent to the 13th Century Straide Abbey which contains some of the finest medieval carvings in Ireland. The site also features an historic graveyard in which Davitt, and other notable figures are buried, and extensive landscaped grounds, in which to walk or picnic. Food & refreshments available nearby.

Glen Keen Farm is one of Ireland's largest working sheep farms. The Farm is equipped with a beautiful purpose built visitor centre, craft shop and cafe. Onsite demonstrations for Groups include Sheep Dog Herding, Traditional Turf Cutting and guided historical walks. Coach Group bookings accepted throughout the year. Cafe and scheduled demonstrations for walk in independent visitors is open seasonally from June to August.

The Quay Gallery Westport is now providing Needle Felting and Jewelry Making Workshops. The Gallery opened its doors in May 2014 - this venture is the brainchild of three like-minded local artists Sue Basler, Victoria Foutz and Suzie Sullivan. They have created an eclectic and innovative space where clients can buy a range of handmade Irish craft in a relaxed environment, meeting the artists and seeing them at work. You can now also take part in felting and jewelry workshops in the gallery. For more info check the gallery facebook or get just give us a call.

Westport Town Hall Theatre promotes a year-round programme of theatre and arts events catering for all ages. The modern and well-equipped multi-purpose centre caters for amateur and professional drama, musicals, dance, film, children’s events and concerts (traditional, classical and popular). All events serve to nurture the educational and cultural needs of all patrons engaging with the venue.

We are an independently owned craft Irish whiskey distillery located in the town of Ballina, County Mayo Ireland. Situated in a beautiful setting across from the River Moy, the distillery offers guided tours, tastings, and a gift shop. You will learn how pot still Irish whiskey is made and get to enjoy a sampling of our products. The Visitor Centre is open Wednesday - Friday 10.30AM-18.00PM and Saturday's 12.00PM-17.00PM. The guided tours of the distillery are scheduled and run from Wednesday- Saturday at 12:00 PM, 13.30PM and 15:30 PM Booking online is necessary as we can only accomidate smaller groups due to the new governement restrictions. Please note our guided tours are running from August 1st please book online and read our new terms and conditions to avoid dissapointment. You will be asked to full out a health declartion and travel form for the past 14days on arrival, your co-operation at this time is appreciated. Please wear a mask or purchase one on arrival.