Overview
Inishgort (Irish: Inis Goirt) is a small, low-lying drumlin island sitting just 19.4 acres in the centre of Clew Bay, County Mayo. Its defining feature is the bold red-brick Inishgort Lighthouse, a structure that has stood watch over the entrance to Westport Harbour for nearly two centuries. Unlike the rugged, cliff-bound islands found further out in the Atlantic, Inishgort feels pastoral and intimate. Its gentle slopes are divided into grazing fields where cattle and sheep roam, creating a quiet, almost timeless tableau against the shifting moods of the bay.
Though the island no longer has a permanent human resident, the lighthouse station and its adjoining keeper’s house remain meticulously maintained. The site offers a rare, uncommercialised glimpse into Ireland’s maritime past, accessible only by boat or kayak, which ensures the experience remains peaceful and immersive.
Lighthouse History & Architecture
The story of the Inishgort light begins with a bit of maritime mystery. Official records from the Commissioners of Irish Lights cite an opening date of 1806, but lighthouse historians and contemporary notices to mariners suggest the original structure was a stone column that was destroyed by fire. The red-brick tower that stands today was designed by George Halpin Senior, the Inspector of Works for the Ballast Board, and erected between 1827 and 1828 at a cost of £3,460 7s 6d.
The tower itself is a compact but robust structure, rising 8 metres (26 ft) to a focal height of 11 metres above mean high water. For decades, the light was tended by the Jeffers family, who served as both keepers and the postmaster for the scattered communities around Clew Bay. Sean Jeffers, the last resident keeper, maintained the light and its associated duties until his death in 2006. The station was unmanned in 1933, but the human legacy remains visible in the detached keeper’s house. This two-storey, four-bay building features lime-washed, slate-hung walls, distinctive dwarf chimney stacks, and original timber sash windows. A 2008 renovation ensured the roof and cast-iron rainwater goods were restored, preserving the building’s character for future generations.
Today, the light operates automatically. Converted to solar power in July 2000, the lantern is now powered by four 50-watt panels and a 510 Ah battery, flashing a long white light every 10 seconds visible up to 10 nautical miles.
Exploring the Island
Coastal Walks & Terrain
There are no marked trails on Inishgort, but a natural informal path circles the island’s perimeter. The walk is short but offers plenty of interest. You’ll pass a curlicued pebble beach that shifts with the tides, a modest farmhouse shelter that speaks to the island’s agricultural use, and open fields where the livestock often approach visitors with curiosity.
The terrain is uneven, with a mix of grass, rock, and loose pebbles. Sturdy footwear is essential, especially when the pebble beach is wet, as the stones can become slippery. The walk is best enjoyed slowly, taking time to absorb the panoramic views of the surrounding islands and the distant mainland.
Wildlife & Birdwatching
Inishgort is a quiet haven for seabirds. The island provides nesting sites for various species of gulls and terns, particularly in the spring and early summer. On the tidal flats and shallower waters around the island, you can often spot waders such as oystercatchers and curlews probing for food. Early morning visits tend to offer the best birdwatching conditions, when the light is soft and the birds are most active.
Kayaking & Boat Access
For the more adventurous, Inishgort is a favourite stop for kayakers exploring Clew Bay. One of the most interesting natural features here is the underwater bar that connects Inishgort to the neighbouring Islandmore. At low tide, this bar becomes visible, creating a unique paddling route between the two islands. Private charters and organised kayak tours depart from Westport, offering a chance to view the lighthouse from the water, where its scale and isolation become even more apparent.
Nearby Islands
Inishgort is part of a rich archipelago in Clew Bay, making it an excellent base for a broader day of exploration. If you are visiting by boat or kayak, consider adding these nearby islands to your itinerary:
- Bartragh Island: Located further out in the bay, Bartragh is known for the atmospheric ruins of Bartragh House and its dramatic coastal scenery.
- Bartra Island: A short distance away, Bartra offers its own lighthouse and historic ruins, including the remnants of a 17th-century tower house.
- Blackrock Island: For those venturing further afield, Blackrock Island is home to a remote lighthouse that has guided ships into the bay since the 19th century.
Practical Information
- Access: Inishgort is accessible only by water. There is no scheduled ferry service. Visitors must arrange private boat charters, join organised tours, or kayak to the island from Westport.
- Facilities: There are no visitor facilities, shops, or toilets on the island. Bring all necessary supplies, including water, snacks, and a first-aid kit.
- Admission: Entry to the island is free. The lighthouse tower and lantern room are strictly closed to the public for safety and conservation reasons.
- Dogs: Dogs are welcome on Inishgort but must be kept on a short leash at all times. This is crucial to protect nesting birds and ensure the safety of the grazing livestock.
- Safety & Weather: Weather in Clew Bay can change rapidly. Check the forecast and tide tables before departing. The island is exposed to Atlantic winds, so windproof and waterproof layers are recommended even in summer. Keep a safe distance from the lighthouse machinery and do not attempt to climb the tower.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months (June to August) typically offer the calmest seas for kayaking and boat trips. Spring (April to May) is ideal for birdwatching, as many seabirds return to nest. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography, with the red brick of the lighthouse glowing warmly against the sky.
Visiting Inishgort requires a bit of planning, but the reward is an authentic encounter with Mayo’s maritime heritage. The combination of historic architecture, wild coastal scenery, and the quiet presence of grazing animals makes it a memorable stop for anyone exploring the Clew Bay islands.