Castlebar
Castlebar (Irish: Caisleán an Bharraigh, meaning ‘Barry’s Castle’) is the county town of Mayo. It was established in the 13th century around the de Barry family castle and today is the administrative center of County Mayo.
This is a thriving town with a population of around 13,000 people with a strong tourism sector year round.
Castlebar is steeped in historical events and played a significant role in the Irish rebellion of 1798. In an event known as ‘The Races of Castlebar”, French General Humbert landed with 1,000 soldiers to join with the Irish in retaking the town from the British.
Things to do in and around Castlebar:
Castlebar is located near the center of Mayo, making it an ideal base for exploring the rest of the county.
The town itself hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year including:
-
The International Four Day Walks: A staple for international travelers to come and experience the Mayo countryside.
-
RoolaBoola: One of the leading children’s arts festivals in Ireland
-
Wild Atlantic Words Festival:
Amenities in Castlebar:
-
Fishing: Lough Lannagh
-
Pubs
-
Restaurants
-
Military Barracks
A short drive from Castlebar:
Towns:
-
Westport
-
Ballina
-
Newport
-
Foxford
-
Lahardan
- Killala
Hiking:
-
Booster station
-
Croagh Patrick
-
Nephin Mor
Sights:
-
The Wild Atlantic Way
-
Achill Island
-
Clare Island
Castlebar is the ideal base for any trip to visit County Mayo which is just 35 minutes from Ireland West International Airport Knock. It is an economic center of county Mayo that is steeped in history, hosts some amazing festivals and close to many of the county’s top scenic areas.
