Visit The Michael Davitt Museum

The Michael Davitt Museum is nestled in the picturesque and historic village of Straide, Co. Mayo, just off the N58 between Ballyvary and Foxford. Offering visitors a unique insight into the life and legacy of one of Ireland’s most influential figures. The museum tells the compelling story of Michael Davitt, renowned social justice activist and agrarian campaigner, and founder of the Irish National Land League, whose work played a pivotal role in shaping modern Ireland.

The museum is housed in the magnificently restored pre-Penal Church, where Michael Davitt was baptised, the church was used prior to the enactment of the 1690’s Penal Laws in Ireland.

Michael Davitt was a social reformer, Member of Parliament, author, GAA Patron, Patron of Glasgow Celtic FC, Labour leader and international humanitarian. Consequently, he became known as Mayo’s most famous son and Ireland’s greatest Patriot.

The People and Places of North Mayo video series took a trip to The Michael Davitt Museum and met one of the excellent tour guides, Mark Spragg. He gives us an insight into what you can expect from a visit to this fascinating museum, that tells the story not only of Michael Davitt’s life, but how Mahatma Gandhi took inspiration from him to start his own mass movement of peaceful resistance in India.

The building is a beautiful setting for the fascinating story of this huge character in Irish history. Michael Davitt was a close ally of Charles Stuart Parnell, the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party and campaigner for Home Rule.

A visit to the Michael Davitt Museum includes the beautiful surrounding grounds of Straide Friary and the museum’s Sensory Garden. Michael Davitt is buried here, overlooking the land upon which he was born. Together, with free parking and a picnic area the museum provides an ideal destination for a great family day out in Mayo.

The Michael Davitt Museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users with wheelchair parking provided. Our Sensory Garden provides a tranquil spot for relaxation.

Following a visit to the Michael Davitt Museum, you will receive a complimentary pass to The Céide Fields Visitor Centre and a 10% discount for Foxford Woollen Mills. This will give you the opportunity to discover another amazing part of our Irish history.

Michael Davitt Museum Visitor Information

Note: Visitors to the museum will receive a FREE pass to the Céide Fields Visitor Centre in North Mayo and 10% discount for Foxford Woollen Mills.