10 Sights & Landmarks in County Mayo That You Shouldn't Miss

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.

Downpatrick Head is a place of spectacular scenic and geological importance. One of the noted locations on the West of Ireland's world renowned "Wild Atlantic Way". A tourist location not to be missed if you are in the area of north Mayo. The sea stack is one of the most photographed cliff areas in Ireland. A note of caution should be stated as the cliffs are extremely high with no barrier protection to preserve the natural views. View with extreme caution especially in windy conditions. Children should be held on to at all times. No dogs allowed. The site can be viewed during daylight hours.

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.

One of the oldest religious sites in Ireland, this mountain is home to an 11th century monastery.

“The Abbey that refused to die” Founded in 1216 by Cathal Crovderg O’Connor, King of Connaught. Among the medieval religious foundations whose ruins dot the Irish countryside, the Abbey is unique. This remarkable Abbey is the only church in Ireland where, for 800 years, Mass has been offered without a break. Experience for yourself the story of “the Abbey that refused to die”. Our video and guides will take you through the stories of Cromwellian burnings, suppression and notorious priest hunter, Sean na Sagart. Guided Tours available daily. Spend some time to savour the atmosphere of quiet contemplation in the grounds. We offer retreats for confirmation students, young adults and adults in the Abbey. In recent years, Ballintubber Abbey has also become a popular wedding venue for couples seeking a distinctive and historic setting. From Ballintubber Abbey, stretching out to Croagh Patrick, is Tochar Phadraig, the ancient pilgrim path. Every year hundreds of pilgrims walk this path – a distance of 35km, and it is now recognised as one of Pilgrim Paths Ireland’s National Walks. Pilgrims must register in the Abbey before setting out, where they will receive maps etc. Church Island is a place of prayer and contemplation, in Lough Carra, associated with the Abbey. The early Church has been restored and the paths, the woods, its grove and inlets portray our salvation journey in an imaginative way. During summer and early autumn groups can spend a day or more on Retreat there. The Celtic Furrow is a Visitor Centre close to the Abbey where visitors can experience the way of life, customs and festivals of long ago through models, paintings, labyrinths etc. It is open during July and August.