Overview
Located on the historic Quay in Westport, the Clew Bay Heritage Centre brings the story of the Clew Bay region to life, from pre‑Christian times to the present day. Housed in a 19th‑century stone building that once held live pigs awaiting export, the centre offers a rare “hands‑on” museum experience – many artefacts can be touched, and visitors can even try on replica 19th‑century clothing.
The displays weave together the legends of Grace O’Malley, the turbulence of the 1798 Rebellion, the Irish War of Independence, and the literary output of Mayo’s writers such as George Moore and Michael Mullen.
History of the Building
The stone structure was originally a livestock pen owned by the Westport Harbour Board, used for loading pigs onto ships bound for Britain. In 1987 the Westport Historical Society acquired the building and transformed it into a museum, preserving a tangible piece of the town’s commercial past while creating a hub for local history and genealogy.
Exhibits at a Glance
- Grace O’Malley & the O’Malley Clan – weapons, maps and a model of the clan’s 16th‑century fleet.
- Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage – artefacts and photographs illustrating the mountain’s spiritual significance.
- 1798 Rebellion & War of Independence – uniforms, weapons, and original newspaper clippings.
- Mayo Authors – first editions, manuscripts and personal items belonging to George Moore, George A Birmingham, Eleanor Fairburn and Michael Mullen.
- Local Industry – a scale model of Westport’s historic quay, railway memorabilia and a selection of coins dating from the 18th century.
- World War II & Spanish Civil War – personal letters and photographs of Mayo volunteers.
All displays are designed for tactile interaction, allowing visitors of all ages to feel the texture of old textiles, handle tools, and explore everyday objects from the past.
Genealogy Service
The centre’s research suite is staffed by volunteers who can guide you through an extensive digital database covering:
- Church baptism, marriage and burial registers
- Census returns from 1901 and 1911
- School registers and rent rolls
- Local newspapers and street directories
Appointments are recommended for in‑depth research, especially during the busy summer months. The service is free for visitors; a modest fee applies for extensive family‑history reports.
Guided Walking Tours
- Summer Walks – Free historic walks run every Wednesday at 11 a.m. from the Clock on Bridge Street (June‑August). The route showcases Westport’s Georgian streets, original harbour layout and hidden courtyards.
- Year‑Round Walks – By appointment, the centre can organise bespoke tours for groups, schools or private parties.
Clew Bay Archaeological Trail
The centre is the trailhead for a 21‑site self‑guided archaeological route stretching from Westport to Louisburgh and out to Clare Island. A guidebook (available on‑site) leads you to sites such as the Neolithic rock art at the Boheh Stone, early Christian ringforts and Bronze‑Age burial cairns.
Friends of the Centre & Shop
- Friends Programme – For an annual contribution of €20 you receive a complimentary copy of the Cathair na Mart journal, a 20 % discount on publications and a 5 % discount on family‑research services.
- Online Shop – The centre sells books, postcards and reproductions of historic photographs. Proceeds support the museum’s educational programmes.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Period | Days | Times |
|---|---|---|
| 1 April – 30 April | Mon‑Fri | 10:00 – 15:00 |
| 1 May – 30 September | Mon‑Fri | 10:00 – 17:00 |
| 1 October – 31 October | Mon‑Fri | 10:00 – 15:00 |
| 1 June – 31 August (Sunday) | Sun | 15:00 – 17:00 |
| All other days | – | Closed |
Admission is free. Walking tours are also free, though pre‑booking is advised during the peak summer period.
Getting There
- By Car – The centre is a short walk from the Westport Quay. Limited on‑street parking is available on the Quay and in the nearby public car park (pay‑and‑display).
- Public Transport – Westport railway station (Irish Rail) is a 5‑minute walk away. Bus Éireann route 440 connects Westport with Castlebar and Ballina.
- Accessibility – The ground‑floor exhibition space is wheelchair‑accessible; a portable ramp is available on request.
Contact & Online Resources
- Phone: +353 (0) 98 26852
- E‑mail: heritagewestport@gmail.com
- Eircode: F28 K302
- Website: https://www.westportheritage.com (please verify – site currently unreachable)
Group Visits & Education
The centre welcomes school groups, retirement clubs and coach tours. Tailored educational programmes align with the Irish curriculum and include hands‑on activities for primary and secondary students.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit with other West Mayo highlights:
- Achill Island – stunning beaches and the Achill Archaeological Field School (/achill-archaeological-field-school/)
- Clare Island – boat trips from the quay and historic ruins
- Boheh Stone – ancient rock art site
- Croagh Patrick – pilgrimage mountain (short bus ride from Westport)
- Ballycroy National Park – wild landscapes a short drive north
Social Media
Follow the centre on Facebook for updates on special exhibitions, additional walking‑tour dates and community events.