Westport

Westport lies on the shore of Clew Bay and is unique amongst Irish towns because it was built following a pre-designed plan. The architect walled the river and lined the riverside malls with lime trees and austere Georgian homes, forming a most delightful thoroughfare. There’s a buzz to the town and, on a sunny day, you can enjoy a drink at the tables and chairs outside Geraghtey’s Bar and Grand Central, on the Octagon (the heart of the town with a granite pillar in the center of the square). At Clew Bay Heritage Centre on Westport Quay, postcards and old photographs show the town as it was at the turn of the last century. There is also a genealogical research center and a display on the maritime traditions of Westport. (Open May–Sep, tel: 098 26852.)