Overview
Drummin is barely a village – a church, a school and a pub on the hilly lanes south of Westport – but it sits at the foot of Croagh Patrick in the Tóchar Valley, within reach of one of Ireland’s last Atlantic oakwoods. Most people meet it on the Cycle 11 route or on the way to Brackloon Wood; the village itself is a quiet base, not a destination. The post office has closed, but the traditional pub hasn’t.
History & Folklore
The name Drummin derives from the Irish Droimín, meaning a small ridge, which accurately describes the modest elevation from which the village overlooks the surrounding countryside. Historically, the area has been linked to tales of hidden gold and ancient monuments, with local lore suggesting that treasure lies buried in the nearby woods.
Local folklore tells of King Conor MacNeasa and the Red Branch Knights, who were reputed to ride along the secluded roads that now wind through the hills and woods to the coast. The village community remains tight-knit, anchored by Drummin National School, which reflects the area’s long-standing commitment to education and rural life.
Brackloon Wood & Forest Walks
Just beyond the village lies Brackloon Wood, one of the last remaining areas of Atlantic oakwood in Ireland. This native woodland is of significant national and international importance, sheltering a mix of broadleaf species including ash, holly, and hazel. The wood is managed by Coillte and features the Brackloon Wood Loop, a 2.8 km trail marked with purple way-markers that follows the Owenwee River. If you stop for one thing in Drummin, make it this walk – it’s the reason most visitors turn off the N59.
Cycling: Cycle 11
Drummin is a key waypoint on Cycle 11, an intermediate route that links Westport, the Sheeffry Hills, Doolough, and Louisburgh. The full loop covers approximately 69 kilometres with 585 metres of climbing, best tackled over five to six hours.
Cyclists typically start in Westport, heading out via the Greenway before turning onto the R335 and N59. After about eight kilometres, the route turns right onto the L1823, signposted for Drummin and Sheeffry Pass. The road climbs gently through quiet countryside for ten kilometres to reach the village. From Drummin, the terrain becomes mountainous, with a short, steep climb to the top of the Sheeffry Pass.
At the summit, the road immediately descends towards a viewing area with spectacular views over the wooded valley and Tawnyard Lough. The route continues steeply through remote countryside for eight kilometres towards Doolough. A visit to the Famine memorial in the layby is worthwhile before continuing through the valley to Louisburgh. Glen Keen Farm & Visitor Centre on the R335 offers refreshments during the high season. The cycle finishes with a fairly easy ride from Louisburgh back to Westport along the coast, passing under Croagh Patrick.
Scenic Viewpoints
On clear days, the hilltops above Drummin provide panoramic vistas across Clew Bay to Clare Island, once the stronghold of the pirate queen Gráinne Uaile. The view is particularly striking when looking west, with the Sheeffry Pass and the distant slopes of Croagh Patrick framing the bay.
Nearby Attractions
Drummin’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Sheeffry Hills and the Doolough Valley. The pilgrimage mountain of Croagh Patrick rises just to the north-west, and the town of Westport is a short drive away. Walkers can also explore sections of the Tóchar Phádraig, an ancient pilgrim path that links the area to Roscommon and the surrounding Tóchar Valley.
Getting There & Practical Information
Drummin is reached by taking the L1823 road, which branches off the N59 south of Westport. The nearest town with full amenities is Westport (approx. 15 km north), which has regular rail services on the Dublin line and Bus Éireann bus routes.
There are no public toilets or shops in the village itself, though a traditional pub operates locally. For food, fuel, and accommodation, visitors should plan to stop in Westport or Louisburgh. The Tóchar Valley Rural Community Network can provide local information on walks and history.
- Tóchar Valley Rural Community Network: +353 94 9366709
- Official Westport Tourism Website: https://www.destinationwestport.com/