Top Things to do in Western Ireland
Countries
Top 10 Museums in Western Ireland, Ireland
Discover the best top things to do in Western Ireland, Ireland including Kiltartan Gregory Museum, Glengowla Mines, Hennigan's Heritage Centre, Ronan Halpin Gallery, Jackie Clarke Collection, Michael Davitt Museum, The Quay Gallery, Whitethorn Gallery, Glenview Folk Museum, Finnertys Mills and Museum.
Restaurants in Western Ireland
1. Kiltartan Gregory Museum
2. Glengowla Mines
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 426 reviews
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,
Reviewed By sarahoR5721WQ
One of the best afternoons spent in Connemara. Great for kids and adults. The staff were all friendly and very patient with my son (and his millions of questions). The Sheepdog display is a must, we loved meeting Jess the sheepdog and watching her herding the sheep to us so we could pet and feed them. The mine tour was great, limited group numbers so not rushed and really interesting with a very knowledgeable and funny guide. We were taught how to pan for gold and even given a little bag to bring our treasure home. A relaxed afternoon in beautiful surroundings to wander around. Great attention to Covid measures, everything we touched was cleaned. I Highly Recommend a visit here!
3. Hennigan's Heritage Centre
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 85 reviews
Reviewed By quiggers - Greystones, Ireland
An excellent living history,our guide Tom was brought up in the house that is the corner stone of this family run museum.He explains the history of Co Mayo in a clear and balanced way,so for a novice or a history buff there is plenty to learn from his story. We had been intending to visit the museum for a longtime as we are regular visitors to Co Mayo.The changes to Irish family life in just 2-3 generations are nothing short of remarkable. Happy to recommend this small museum, for older people it is a reminder, for the young it is an eye opener. Tom and Catherine were excellent and welcoming hosts, it was a great chat with tea and biscuits.
4. Ronan Halpin Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 8 reviews
Our gallery shows the work of sculptor Ronan Halpin and painter Amanda Mac Mahon. The work on show includes small sculpture, furniture and lighting by Ronan and paintings and jewellery by Amanda. The gallery is open from May to September.
Reviewed By 194thej
I visited Ronan’s gallery in August 2019 and purchased some of his beautiful work, the visit was an unexpected treat and one of the highlights of my trip to Achill, I was surprised at how well the mirrors and lamp transitioned from the studio in the wilds of Achill to a small house in Dublin, Ronan kindly followed up on my query about hanging the mirrors and they are a delightful addition to the room, I hope to visit again some time this Summer and add to my collection, thank you Ronan and Mandy
5. Jackie Clarke Collection
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 171 reviews
Reviewed By foodlover1227
there is so much history and information about ballina town and ireland it is well worth a visit the jackie clarke collection is unbelievable the staff is so helpful and friendly
6. Michael Davitt Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 353 reviews
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.
Reviewed By MarieG657 - Dublin, Ireland
What a delightful way to spend a couple of hours in this part of the world. The short video, served with refreshments, followed by a very informative tour of the memorabilia was fascinating. The guide judged his audience so well. He provided enough information to bring the material alive but without over burdening us. All questions were answered fully and the building housing the museum is delightfully refurbished, retaining all its best original features. Our guide personally took us to visit Michael Davitt’s grave. We learned so much about our history and the role Davitt played in it. Our thanks to the inspirational guide and staff of the museum. I would highly recommend this tour to all ages.
7. The Quay Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 75 reviews
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.
Reviewed By fionnualag167
Fantastic welcome from Saileen and what a wonderful choice of unique art. Well done to all the artist involved
8. Whitethorn Gallery
9. Glenview Folk Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 82 reviews
Reviewed By bernieg181
We were down from Donegal and were delighted to find this place. The owner has painstakingly restored some beautiful machines from yesteryear and has gathered a treasure trove of items that took me right back in time. The tour guide was so polite and informative too, it was well worth a visit !
10. Finnertys Mills and Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Discover all there is to know about a water-powered Corn Mill. The Corn Mill is a recorded monument and an important part of our industrial heritage. Gain an understanding of how oats and wheat were milled in a bygone era.
Reviewed By Galwaywalks - Galway, Ireland
I stumbled across this gem, an authentic 18th century water-mill in November last year with my brother. We popped in for a look and were amazed at the whole experience. The mill has been lovingly restored buy the current generation of the Finnerty family who can trace their ownership of the mill back over 220 years. When we asked if the mill-wheel and attached machinery still worked, we were treated to a whole lesson in 19th century milling techniques and watched in wonderment as the water turned the massive wheel, setting the grinding wheels in motion. It was just a fantastic experience. And we got tea and scones to sustain us to our next stop. The mill is a wonder of engineering and is such an authentic visitor experience. I was fascinated, your children will be transported!
