Westport House and Gardens

Westport House by Mark Waters

Westport House is the family home of Lord Altamont, whose family have lived here since the house was built for his ancestor John Browne in 1731.

It was built on the site of a castle which was home to 16th century Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley, a relative of the Browne family.

Its location is extraordinarily beautiful, set in the midst of parkland and woods, with a lake on one side and magnificent views over Clew Bay on the other.

The house contains many of the original features, especially in the magnificent entrance hall.

There are fabulous antique Waterford Crystal chandeliers and a huge collection of antique furniture, painting, ornaments and other household items, many of which have been in the house for hundreds of years.

Outside the need for owners of such houses to earn money for their horrifically expensive upkeep means that there are several attractions for visitors, which some might say are a little tacky but which certainly entertain younger (and even older!) visitors very well.

A Children’s Animal and Bird Park, pedal boats on the lake, train rides through the grounds, a log flume and an indoor play area for the very young visitors are among the attractions that make it easy for a family to while away a full day here, in fact it is a terrific family day out.

There is also pitch and putt and fishing on the lake available for those who like more adult pursuits and a very good cafe in the old farm yard when it all becomes too much!

Visiting Westport House and Gardens

The house and its surrounding attractions are open every day from March 1st – October 31st and on Saturday and Sunday only the rest of the year. Details of special events are posted on their website.

Location Map