“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list.” – Susan Sontag
Whether you’re visiting or a local, here are some great ideas to help you get under the skin of North Mayo (and West Sligo too!)
Throughout 2025 we’re setting you a task; to get out and explore North Mayo. Here are just 25 things to do in North Mayo in 2025!
1. Marvel at sea stack Dún Briste from Downpatrick Head …
…a Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point – and one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Hear about the myths and legends surrounding St Patrick and chieftain Crom Dubh – and how the sea stack really came to be!
2. … Or maybe from the sea.
Take to the sea and explore hidden parts of the cost and discover some of the rich and diverse wildlife with Enniscrone Boat Tours. Head to Dún Briste, Céide Fields sea cliffs or the Stags of Broadhaven, all from a unique perspective.
3. Immerse yourself in the Céide Fields Visitor Centre
The Céide Fields Visitors Centre offers a state-of-the-art visitor experience. The enhanced experience includes interpretation that tells the archaeological story of the site and its discovery. The award winning Visitor Centre tells the story of this ancient settlement, which dates back an incredible 6,000 years, making it one of the most historically important sites on the planet!
4. Explore the diverse History & Heritage of North Mayo
In Ballina, the Jackie Clarke Collection has the single most important private collection of Irish history material in public hands, even boasting an original 1916 Proclamation of Independence. The Michael Davitt Museum tells the story of the prominent Irish social justice activist and agrarian campaigner who founded the Irish National Land League. telling the fascinating story of Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC. The Father Peyton Memorial Centre, situated in scenic Attymass, tells the fascinating story of Venerable Father Patrick Peyton, CSC through archival video footage, memorabilia and guided tours.
5. Don your hiking boots and head west to Lahardane via Crossmolina to climb Nephin …
… the second highest peak in Connacht. A new trailhead has recently been completed that will guide you to the top of this Mount Fuji-like conical mountain, from the peak of which it’s said you can see seven counties on a clear day.
Here you’ll find details of local tour guides, should you wish to have someone experienced guide you to the top.
6. Go foraging with Denis Quinn of Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours in Killala.
Explore the natural heritage and culture of the North Mayo coast with Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours. Learn about sea plants, seafood, geology and ancient megalithic ruins. And at the end, you might even get to cook up your bounty!
7. SUP (Stand Up Paddle) your way up the River Moy …
…with Harbour Sup or Simply Sup. This is something everyone can try, and it’s a really great way of seeing Ballina from an entirely different vantage point. If you’re feeling braver, you can attempt it in the sea at the Pier in neighbouring town Enniscrone, or on Lough Conn.
8. Weave an unforgettable experience at FOXFORD Woollen Mills.
Enjoy an interactive journey through a turbulent and fascinating history with a tour of the oldest working mill in Ireland, shop til you drop and treat yourself to a delicious lunch in the recently refurbished Foxford Café, which, under the stewardship of accomplished chef Kathleen Flavin, prides itself on its delicious food, sourced locally.
9. See Mayo North differently, with a guide…
…here in North Mayo we are blessed with a number of amazing guides. Cycle, trail run or hike through North Mayo on a bespoke tour with one of our local tour guides – Rachel’s Irish Adventures, Tonnta Adventures & really great tours can take you to places that most tourists won’t see, or take a very special tailored after-dark stargazing experience with Ged and Georgia at Terra Firma Ireland.
10. Relax and take time to pamper yourself…
… in one of North Mayo’s amazing spas – Chill at The Ice House or Ocean Spa at The Ocean Sands will leave you relaxed and ready for you next adventure. For something a little different head to Enniscrone where you can take a Seaweed Bath or Sauna by the ocean.
11. Immerse yourself in the arts …
… in The Ballinglen Arts Foundation in Ballycastle or Ballina Arts Centre in the North Mayo capital. The brand new Ballinglen Museum of Art opened to the public in 2020, while Ballina Arts Centre boasts a year-round programme of theatre, live music, dance, film, and more.
12. Surf the best waves …
… with 7th Wave Surf School at Enniscrone beach, just across the border in Co. Sligo, a ten-minute drive from Ballina, or head to Belmullet where you will find Tonn Nua, where ever you choose you’ll never feel quite so alive!
13. Visit a deserted island …
… head to the Inishkea Islands, where white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and a rich history await discovery. Take a trip with Black Sod Sea Safari, Wild West Boat Tours or Belmullet Boat Charters, delve into the history of the islands and explore the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit them.
14. Feed the ducks and explore the trails in Belleek Woods, Ballina …
… one of the largest urban woodlands in Europe. This magical woodland is full of treasures – an old lime kiln, an ice house, lots of monuments and even a few graves, not to mention miles and miles of trails to explore. Keep an eye out for the fairies!
PS: When feeding the ducks, don’t give them bread – although they love it, it’s really bad for them! Try corn, lettuce and other greens (torn into pieces) defrosted frozen peas, Oats (rolled or instant) or seeds instead.
15. Drive the spectacular North Mayo coastline and follow ‘Tír Sáile‘ …
… the North Mayo Sculpture Trail from Ballina to Belmullet. At the time, this public art project was commissioned to mark Mayo 5000, and was the largest of its kind in Ireland. It’s evolved since then, but the story behind the artworks, dotted across the North Mayo landscape, remains as fascinating as ever.
16. Restore your wellbeing …
… with a yoga or a sound bath from Beahatha Yoga & Sound Therapies or Roots Wellness. For something more physical try Studio Five Reformer Pilates or The Gym Ballina.
17. Enjoy some Afternoon Tea …
… after a day of exploring North Mayo. In our list, there’s something to suit all budgets and tastes, so gather the girls and enjoy an afternoon treat.
18. Walk the woodland trails at Enniscoe …
… or explore the fascinating little museum or trace your ancestors at the adjoining North Mayo Heritage Centre near Crossmolina.
19. Take a stroll along Lacken Strand …
… or explore North Mayo’s best kept secret beaches at Kilcummin, Ross and Ballycastle. We have some glorious beaches in North Mayo for you to explore in 2022.
20. Explore North Mayo’s heritage ….
… hire a bike from Ballina Bike Hire and explore the Monasteries of the Moy greenway. There’s also wealth of megalithic, neolithic and Bronze Age remains, all around the area.
Take it all in with a tour with accredited guide Jim Henry of Sláinte Ireland Tours, who’s full of local knowledge
21. Enjoy the best of North Mayo live music …
… in Ballina at Rouse’s Bar, T. Breathnachs or Jimmy’s where there are regular weekend sessions. You’ll also find live music and trad sessions in Guirys of Foxford & Bessies Bar, Kilcummin.
On the first Friday of each month, Killala Bay Folk Club convenes in Killala to celebrate our musical and storytelling heritage – we highly recommend it!
22. Embrace the wilderness of North Mayo at Wild Nephin National Park
Head to Ballycroy Visitor Centre to discover more about the 11,000 hectares of Atlantic blanket bog and mountainous terrain, that cover a vast uninhabited and unspoilt wilderness, dominated by the Nephin Beg mountain range. It’s also an important nature reserve, and boasts a Gold-Tier International Dark Sky Park accreditation along side some of the most spectacular Walks in the country.
23. Experience a stay with a difference…
… in one of North Mayo’s pods. Teach Greannaí, Belmullet Coast Guard Station and Céide Glamping all bring you that little bit closer to the outdoors.
24. Immerse yourself with a cúpla focal in Erris…
… many parts of which use Irish as their first language. Whilst there take a trip to the lighthouse that changed the course of a war, or visit SOLAS which offers visitors, through interactive exhibitions and exciting installations, an enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of the Mullet Peninsula’s offshore island communities, the resilience of the Irish language, and the preservation of timeless music, traditions, storytelling, and myths.
25. Download our 50 Great Things to Do in North Mayo brochure!
There are actually 54 things, so we promise, you’ll find something in there you’ll enjoy!
