A Quick Guide to Ballina

Ballina is surrounded by some of the best fishing in Ireland - the surrounding area abounds in lakes and River Moy, a renowned salmon fishery, flows through the town. The sight of anglers on the town's bridges or standing dressed in waders in the river itself is a commonplace.

If you are passing through take a few moments to walk to the back of the railway station, to see the Dolmen of the Four Maols, which is actually a Kist, and which dates back to the Bronze age. It is said to be the resting place of four brothers who according to legend murdered their master and were later executed.

Close to the town, Belleek Forest is a very popular place with walkers.

There are also two abbeys nearby: the 15th century Franciscan Rosserk Abbey whose structure and layout is well enough preserved to allow a good glimpse into the lives of monks at that time, and which has some particularly well preserved early windows, and Moyne Abbey, built around the same time also by Franciscan monks, but in rather poorer condition.

Things to do and see

A selection of places and activities that are in Ballina or that can be visited while using Ballina as a base. For more activities that may be in reach see our Area Guides.

Achill Island
Achill is Ireland's largest Island and is a romantic place of long beaches, secret coves and huge Atlantic views.

Ceide Fields. Co Mayo
Ongoing archeological investigations at Ceide Fields are revealing remarkable insights into life in stone age Ireland.

Irish Museum of Country Life
Clothing, tools, toys and household items from Ireland's history give an insight into day to day living in Ireland's past.

Croagh Patrick
A place of pilgrimage for generations which still attracts huge crowds today.

Knock Shrine
Scene of an apparition which draws large numbers to prayer and pilgrimage.

Westport House and Gardens
An interesting historic house and grounds filled with activities for families, Westport House is an especially fun place for kids, if somewhat over commercialised for some tastes.

Festival and Events

Ballina Salmon Festival Festival | Date: July 11th - 20th

Westport Arts Festival Arts Festival | Date: Aug 29th - Sept 7th

Tour Itineraries

Some tour itineraries which explore in or include Co Mayo:

Fishing Tour of Ireland
A three-center suggested fishing tour of Ireland, with great variety and lots of touring potential along the way for non-fishers.