Tour Groups
Why not take your group to visit one of the most beautiful historic houses in Ireland?
An extraordinary number of groups have been welcomed to Westport House and Gardens since it first opened to the public in 1960… many saying it constituted the highlight of their tour of the West of Ireland. Westport House and Gardens has a very high appeal to all nationalities, with growing numbers of English, German, French, and American visitors each year. It is well suited to the “Silver Surfer” groups but equally so a visit will intrigue anyone interested in learning more about Ireland’s rich culture and heritage in a beautiful and peaceful parkland setting.
Our pre-booked tour options include:
Guided Tour: This personalized and animated guided tour of the house lasts 45 – 60 minutes where you learn all about the House itself and the Browne Family who have been in Westport House since it was built in 1730.You will also learn about the original architecture, art and furniture. Groups are invited to stroll around the superb parkland setting with lake, terraces, waterfalls, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Achill, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. Gift shop onsite and Tea, coffee and refreshments can also be arranged. This tour can last from 1 to 2 hours and needs to be booked in advance outside of high season.
“Lord it Up” Tour: Spend a half day in Westport House to get a feel for what it feels like to live in a 500 year old house. Enjoy the guided tour of the house as described above to last up to 1 hour, take Afternoon Tea with only the most delicious cakes and sandwiches and then retire to the Drawing Room where you wile away a couple of hours in front of the toasty fire and play cards or board games. This visit can last up to 5 hours. What a luxurious way to spend time in Westport and really experience life as a Lord? Pre-booking and groups of 20+ required all year around.
All groups are invited to stroll around the superb parkland setting with lake, terraces, waterfalls, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick featuring many scenic photographic opportunities. We have leisurely parkland walks featuring a Tree Trail and a 1.5km looped riverside walk if time permits.
Is your group interested in outdoor activity?
In 2011, Westport House opened its Adventure Activity Centre offering activities such as Archery, as well as some more adventurous activities like zorbing, orienteering, combat games, stand up paddle boarding and kayaking. For those groups looking to “get amongst it”, we are happy to arrange sessions.
Westport & Surrounding Location: Westport and the Clew Bay region is a hive of activity for visitors. Nearby you’ll find the un-miss-able mountain, Croagh Patrick, if you’re up to a healthy hike. If you’re looking to enjoy the Atlantic, we have a range of blue flag beaches in the area, deep sea fishing on Clew Bay, or alternatively Island trips to Clare Island or any of the 365 islands in the Bay. For the rainy day, we are a short drive to the National Museum of Country Life or Foxford Woolen Mills. Likewise day trips to each of Clifden, Achill, Connemara, Aran Islands and Galway are all only a one hour’s drive away. In addition, Westport is also renowned for its variety of delicious restaurants and lively pubs both on Westport Quay or in the town itself.
To enjoy any of these tours, advance booking is necessary. We will do our best to accommodate a guided tour for any drop-in groups however, this cannot be guaranteed. A self-guided tour is the alternative option. Please contact us on info@westporthouse.ie or +353 98 27766.
Designs ]