Historic Houses and Castles

Are you interested in the fascinating story of Ireland’s most beautiful historic house? Interested in learning about Ireland’s Pirate Queen: Grace O’Malley? Looking for art, antiques and architecture? Want to enjoy the peaceful, natural gardens of a superb parkland setting? If so, you can’t leave the West of Ireland without visiting Westport House & Gardens.

The home of Grace O’Malley, Westport House has been open to the public for over 50 years and has welcomed over 4 million visitors. It was designed by the famous architects Richard Cassels and James Wyatt in the 18th century and enjoys a superb parkland setting with lake, terraces, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Achill, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. It was built and is still privately owned by the Browne family who are direct descendants of the 16th century Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley.

Opportunities to enjoy art, activity, history and culture abound – for both adults and children alike – in this beautiful historic house showcasing:

• 500 years of history of one family’s life in Westport House and their connection to Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley (or Grainne Uaile)
• Over 30 rooms open to the public with original antiques, architecture and artwork
• 60 minute guided tour where you learn all about the Browne Family who have lived here since the 16th Century as well as the original architecture, antiques and artwork in this beautiful house (NEW!)
• Child-friendly Grace O’Malley Experience - 30 minute guided tour where you’ll learn all about Westport House’s history of pirates, Grace O’Malley and the high seas finishing in the newly decorated dungeons illustrating life on one of her Galleons (NEW!)
• 4 permanent exhibitions - The Last 50 Years at Westport House (NEW!); Grace O’Malley, Pirate Queen; Howe Peter & the Abolition of Slavery and Waxwork exhibition of famous visitors to Westport
• Tea Rooms in restored original kitchens serving delicious snacks, teas and coffees
• Dungeons from Grace O’Malley’s 16th Century Castle
• Leisurely parkland walks including a Tree Trail and Looped Riverside Walk
• Lake, terraces, waterfalls & natural gardens
• Scenic photographic opportunities
• Pedestrian access from Westport Town

Be sure to get here early to enjoy everything on offer – with NEW extended opening hours – it’s a full day!