Get off the beaten track and explore the North Mayo Heritage Centre and the beautiful surroundings. Set in mature woodland on the Enniscoe House estate, it is located off the R315 between Crossmolina and Lahardane.
The centre provides a family history research service (remotely) and their organic garden is proud to celebrate 30 years this year. They also have a shop and run events, workshops and courses throughout the year.
The trailhead of the National Loop Walks, Enniscoe is located in the Heritage Centre carpark. The loop walks (maintained by the Enniscoe Estate and partners) are open all day every day. They can be wet and muddy, particularly during the winter months.
Always advised to phone in advance if travelling long distance.
For opening times please refer to their website www.northmayoheritagecentre.ie
Bright Sky Café at the North Mayo Heritage Centre
Bright Sky Café, new for 2026, is a welcoming addition to the North Mayo Heritage Centre at Enniscoe. This cosy café invites visitors to relax and recharge while enjoying great coffee, freshly baked cakes, breads and savoury snacks made with organic produce and locally sourced ingredients. Surrounded by the beautiful grounds of the Heritage Centre, it’s the perfect spot to pause during your visit, stay a little longer, and soak in the atmosphere. The café also hosts weekly creative workshops for both children and adults every Saturday at 1pm.
Genealogy
If you’re looking for an expert to trace your North Mayo family history you’ve come to the right place. The majority of their research work is through private commissions from individuals from all over the world.
Genealogy and interest in family history has always been intriguing but the potential for people to know more about their ancestors has grown.
The genealogy service has featured in many television programmes such as RTÉ’s Nationwide and the PBS syndicated ‘Ireland With Michael’ which has an audience of millions of people in the United States and Canada.
Find out more here:
https://northmayoheritagecentre.ie/bespoke-services/family-history-research-projects/
The Centre has compiled a complete database of all the major genealogical resources relating to North Mayo, most of which are not available online. The database contains 1.2 million records. The North Mayo Heritage Centre covers 29 Roman Catholic parishes. Comprising of the northern half of County Mayo, from Achill in the west to Carracastle, near Knock Airport, in the east. The Centre has a number of records sets which are not online. Most of these pertain to the 20th century. The Centre also has access to a local newspaper archive which is very useful for researching. Records for the remaining parishes of Co. Mayo are located at the South Mayo Family History Centre in Ballinrobe.
If you have questions, please consult the FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) which may answer any general queries which you may have:
www.northmayoheritagecentre.ie/bespoke-services/faqs/
Please note, research takes time, which is why they ask that you contact their researchers well in advance of your visit.
Due to demand North Mayo Heritage Centre can no longer conduct research projects at short notice, or on a same day basis. Each project undertaken is uniquely different and they aim to tailor their services to meet your needs and resources. Fees will be discussed and agreed upon in advance before any work being undertaken.
Email: [email protected]
Townlands and Surnames
North Mayo Heritage Centre researchers have extensive experience in family name and townland research and can provide you with a copy of your family name and townland research, beautifully detailed and perfect as a keepsake for yourself or a gift for a family member or friend.
An insight into your townland – pricing:
€35 unframed (A3 size), (postage available at extra cost)
€35 by email.
All townlands in Co. Mayo are available
A General History of any surname
€25 unframed (A3 size), (postage available at extra cost)
€25 by email.
To enquire email [email protected] or tel. +353 (0)96 31809
FRAMED OPTION: Add €15 to prices for a framed version. Framed versions must be collected. Frame size 58cm x 48cm
North Mayo Heritage Centre Gardens
The Organic Garden has been certified organic for 30 years, and produces a wealth of heritage and hardy organic fruit, vegetables and plants.
A small, dedicated team of gardeners sow, plant and tend a large number of varieties of seasonal produce throughout the year, which are sold direct to the public.
Organic produce can be purchased all year round every Tue, Wed, Thur 12pm to 3.30pm.
Veg boxes can also be ordered for collection weekly. North Mayo Heritage Centre have also recently become part of Irish Seed Savers, collecting seeds from the heritage varieties grown in the organic garden. These contribute to the saving of traditional varieties of a large number of different crops. The organically certified seeds are available to purchase and via mail order ([email protected] ).
They are delighted to collaborate with Reel Deel Brewery in Crossmolina, successfully growing organic hops for their ‘Hop Dog’ ale.
The centre offers customisable tours for schools and community groups, including exploring the Georgian splendour of Enniscoe House and savouring the sites and aromas of our beautiful organic garden.
Looped Walks
North Mayo Heritage Centre offers lovely short looped walks, perfect for families around the woodlands of Enniscoe House overlooking Lough Conn and with spectacular views of Nephin Mountain. Also, watch out for Mayo’s oldest tree, and for Enniscoe’s newest residents, the native red squirrel!
The initial laneway surface is solid and usually dry underfoot. However, it can get wet, muddy and narrow further in, so it is important to wear the right footwear. Dogs are welcome, however visitors are kindly asked to keep them under control as there is lots of wildlife in the woods.
Shop
The shop offers a wide selection of books on local history, natural heritage and gardening and a small selection of gifts by local producers. You can also see examples of the framed surname and townland histories. Researched and produced by their team, these unique and special gifts are available to purchase for your surname and townland.
Why not visit the online bookstore (below), where you can find many of their books and other items available to order!
www.northmayoheritagecentre.ie/shop/
The Bright Sky Café
The Mayo Heritage Centre is also home to The Bright Sky Café, where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments during their visit. As opening hours may vary throughout the year, it is recommended to check their website or contact them directly through Instagram contact them directly through Instagram for the most up-to-date information before visiting.
Events and activities
The Centre hosts various activities throughout the year such as Food & Craft Markets, Halloween Event, Easter Kids Event, Heritage Week events, Cruinniú na nÓg, etc.
Click here to find an overview of the current event programme for 2026
The Centre also has a Community Hall which can be booked for community events, workshops and courses. The hall will accommodate up to 80 people seated and can be set up and decorated to your specifications. The hall is equipped with a projector and audio system. There is also a small kitchen area, and toilet facilities within the building.
www.northmayoheritagecentre.ie/about-us/venue-hire/
Contact the North Mayo Heritage Centre:
Web: www.northmayoheritagecentre.ie/
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +353 (0)96 31809