Achill Heritage Centre: A Window to Achill's Soul
Discover Achill Island's vibrant past at the Heritage Centre: history, culture, genealogy, and stunning scenery await!
The Achill Heritage Centre in Bunacurry offers an immersive journey into Achill Island's captivating history and culture. Through exhibits of artifacts, photographs, and documents, visitors explore the island's transformation over centuries, from its ancient roots to the influences that shaped its unique identity.
A brief summary to Achill Heritage Centre
- Bunacurry, Bunacurry, Co. Mayo, F28 V4K7, IE
- +353863406396
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the Heritage Centre's website or call ahead for information on special events, workshops, or guided tours that may be taking place during your visit.
- Allow at least one to two hours to fully explore the exhibits and learn about Achill's history.
- Consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter, more personal experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Westport or Castlebar, Bus Éireann route 450 provides service to Achill Island. Once on Achill, local buses offer limited service to the main villages and attractions. From Achill Sound, the Heritage Centre is approximately a 15-20 minute bus ride. A single fare on the local bus is approximately €3-5.
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Driving
Achill Island is connected to the mainland by the Michael Davitt Bridge. From Achill Sound, follow the R319 towards Bunacurry. The Achill Heritage Centre is located in the village of Bunacurry. Free parking is available. Note that road conditions on Achill can be narrow and winding, so exercise caution.
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Taxi
Taxis are available on Achill Island. A taxi from Achill Sound to the Achill Heritage Centre in Bunacurry would cost approximately €20-€30. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Discover more about Achill Heritage Centre
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Achill Cottages
4.9 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island from the comfort of charming, highly-rated cottages in a serene coastal setting. Book your escape today!
Anvil House
5.6 km
Experience Achill Island charm at Anvil House B&B: Modern comfort, friendly service, and the perfect location for island adventures.
Achill Sound Hotel & Connaughton's Bar
5.7 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at Achill Sound Hotel, your gateway to Achill Island's beauty and adventure on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Tourism Office (Achill Sound)
5.7 km
Your essential guide to exploring Achill Island: maps, tips, events, and local expertise for an unforgettable adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Island Hotel
5.7 km
Experience Achill Island's rugged beauty and warm hospitality at this family-run hotel on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant
6.7 km
Experience coastal bliss at Achill Cliff House Hotel & Restaurant: stunning views, local cuisine, and a perfect base for exploring Achill Island.
Slievemore
6.8 km
Hike to the summit of Slievemore on Achill Island for breathtaking panoramic views and a glimpse into Ireland's rich history.
Granuaile Loop Walk
7.9 km
Hike Achill Island's Granuaile Loop for stunning coastal views, historical insights, and a memorable Wild Atlantic Way experience.
White Cliffs of Ashleam
8.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Achill Island's White Cliffs of Ashleam, a dramatic coastal landscape along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Achill West Coast House
8.8 km
Experience coastal charm at Achill West Coast House B&B. Discover stunning views, cozy rooms, and easy access to Achill Island's beauty.
Achill Island Property
8.9 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty and rich heritage of Achill Island, Ireland's largest island, where adventure meets tranquility.
Teach Cruachan B&B
10.0 km
Discover Achill Island's Wild Atlantic Way from Teach Cruachan B&B: Comfort, stunning views, and adventure await!
Achill Island Secret Beach
10.5 km
Discover Achill Island's best-kept secret: a remote beach with stunning scenery, rich history, and tranquil escape on Ireland's wild Atlantic coast.
Achill Maritime History Trail Point No. 10
11.8 km
Explore Achill Island's maritime past at this scenic trail point near Corrymore, where history meets breathtaking coastal views.
Achillbeg
11.9 km
Discover Achillbeg Island: an unspoiled Irish escape with dramatic cliffs, tranquil scenery, and a rich history waiting to be explored.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bunacurry Viewpoint
1.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Bunacurry Viewpoint in Co. Mayo, a picturesque destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Achill Island
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Achill Island, Ireland's largest island, known for its stunning cliffs and sandy beaches.
Minaun Heights
3.4 km
Experience breathtaking 360° panoramic views from Minaun Heights, a must-see destination along Achill Island's Wild Atlantic Way.
Great Western Greenway: Achill Sound to Cashel
3.4 km
Explore Achill Island's stunning landscapes on this 5km traffic-free section of the Great Western Greenway, featuring a unique bog boardwalk.
Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth
4.4 km
Find serenity on Achill Island: Walk the ancient path of the Seven-Circuit Classical Labyrinth in County Mayo for reflection and peace.
Dooniver Beach
4.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Dooniver Beach on Achill Island, a perfect escape on the Wild Atlantic Way for relaxation and water activities.
Valley Loop Walk
4.5 km
Discover Achill Island's beauty on the Valley Loop Walk: scenic trails, historic sites, and stunning views await in County Mayo's natural haven.
Woodland Faerie Trail
4.7 km
Experience the magic of Irish folklore on Achill Island's enchanting Woodland Faerie Trail, a whimsical adventure for all ages.
Golden Strand
4.8 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Golden Strand in County Mayo, where golden sands meet the tranquil waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Achillislandalpacas
4.8 km
Trek along Achill Island's Golden Strand with gentle alpacas for a unique and memorable coastal experience.
Cathedral Rocks
4.8 km
Discover the breathtaking Cathedral Rocks in Co. Mayo, a natural wonder with stunning views and exhilarating hiking opportunities.
Book Achill's Number 1 Walking Tour Attraction - The Colony Tour
5.5 km
Uncover Achill Island's hidden history on a guided walking tour through the ruins of a 19th-century Protestant mission.
Keel beach
6.2 km
Achill Island's Keel Beach: A stunning 3.5km sandy haven for watersports, swimming, and breathtaking views of the Minaun Cliffs.
Megalithic Tomb
6.2 km
Explore the ancient wonders of the Megalithic Tomb in Co. Mayo, a captivating historical landmark that reveals the secrets of Ireland's past.
Western Light Art Gallery
6.3 km
Discover art inspired by Achill Island's beauty at the Western Light Art Gallery, featuring paintings, photography, and sculptures by local and international artists.
Essential places to dine
Lynott's Pub
0.8 km
Discover Lynott's Pub in Bunacurry: A cozy bar offering authentic Irish hospitality and lively local music on beautiful Achill Island.
Blásta at Ted's
2.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at Blásta at Ted's on Achill Island – where fresh local ingredients meet traditional Irish hospitality.
Ted's Bar, Restaurant and Venue
2.1 km
Experience delightful dining at Ted's Bar & Restaurant on Achill Island - where great food meets live music in a stunning Irish setting.
The Cross
4.4 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Cross on Achill Island—where great food meets stunning scenery.
The Valley House Hostel and Bar
4.7 km
Experience comfort and community at The Valley House Hostel and Bar on Achill Island – where delicious food meets vibrant nightlife.
Mastersons Bar and Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Mastersons Bar and Restaurant on Achill Island - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Mickey's Bar
5.5 km
Discover the welcoming atmosphere at Mickey's Bar in Dooega East - where stunning views meet delightful drinks and local charm.
McLoughlins Bar
5.5 km
Discover McLoughlins Bar: Your gateway to authentic Irish culture and hospitality on Achill Island.
Strand Hotel Dugort Achill Co Mayo
5.5 km
Discover warm hospitality at The Strand Hotel on Achill Island—your gateway to Ireland's stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Hotspot Takeaway Achill Sound
5.6 km
Experience delicious fast food and authentic Indian flavors at Hotspot Takeaway in Achill Sound - A must-visit culinary destination!
Pure Magic Achill Lodge
5.7 km
Discover Pure Magic Achill Lodge - A Cozy Restaurant & Lodge Offering Delicious Food Amidst Stunning Landscapes on Achill Island.
Alices
5.7 km
Discover Alices Bar in Achill Sound - where traditional Irish hospitality meets breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine.
Hotel Nad Oceanem
5.7 km
Experience exquisite local flavors at Hotel Nad Oceanem with stunning ocean views in beautiful Co. Mayo.
Ár Bia Mara
6.7 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ár Bia Mara on Achill Island, where every dish celebrates Ireland's coastal bounty.
The Islander - Megs
6.8 km
Experience delicious fast food at The Islander - Megs in Achill, Co. Mayo; where local charm meets flavorful cuisine amidst stunning landscapes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Achill Island Distillery
0.2 km
Experience the rich heritage of Irish whiskey-making at Achill Island Distillery, where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes.
Achill Island Sea Salt
0.9 km
Experience the unique flavors of Achill Island Sea Salt, where traditional methods meet the best of Ireland's natural resources.
Boreen Gallery
1.3 km
Explore the vibrant Boreen Gallery on Achill Island, showcasing local art, crafts, and photography in a breathtaking coastal setting.
Blásta Bikes
2.1 km
Experience the beauty of Achill Island on two wheels with Blásta Bikes, your premier bicycle rental service for scenic adventures.
Red Fox Press
5.4 km
Explore the artistic essence of Co. Mayo at Red Fox Press, a captivating gallery dedicated to beautiful book prints and local creativity.
Achill Island flowers
5.5 km
Discover the vibrant floral beauty of Achill Island at Achill Island Flowers, where nature's artistry flourishes amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Sweeney's Homevalue Hardware
5.6 km
Explore Sweeney's Homevalue Hardware for quality tools, fishing gear, and outdoor clothing in the scenic Achill Sound.
Sweeney’s Siopa Claddaigh
5.6 km
Explore Sweeney’s Siopa Claddaigh in Co. Mayo for unique home goods and authentic Irish craftsmanship, perfect for souvenirs.
Sweeney's SuperValu
5.6 km
Experience the heart of Achill Sound at Sweeney's SuperValu, where local flavors meet warm Irish hospitality.
Kieran Sweeney Crafts & Knitwear
5.6 km
Discover the heart of Irish craftsmanship at Kieran Sweeney Crafts & Knitwear in Achill Sound, where tradition meets creativity.
Lavelles Shop, Your Stop
5.7 km
Explore Lavelles Shop in Achill Sound for local produce, delicious coffee, ice cream, and friendly service in a charming convenience store.
The Aleph by Meg's
5.7 km
Experience the charm of The Aleph by Meg's, a delightful espresso bar in Achill Sound, offering fresh, local flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
Molloys Pharmacy
5.7 km
Discover health and wellness at Molloys Pharmacy in Achill Sound, your trusted partner for all health needs while exploring the stunning Achill Island.
Mac Savers
5.7 km
Discover local treasures and everyday essentials at Mac Savers, Achill Island's premier warehouse store, combining value and variety for every tourist's needs.
Ketterick's Family Butchers
5.7 km
Discover Ketterick's Family Butchers in Co. Mayo for high-quality, locally sourced meats and an authentic taste of Irish culinary tradition.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lounge Bar
6.6 km
Discover the lively Lounge Bar in Co. Mayo, where traditional Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.
The Basking Shark Bar
7.0 km
The Basking Shark Bar in Keel East, Co. Mayo, offers a cozy retreat with local flavors and stunning views, perfect for travelers seeking Irish hospitality.
The Compass Bar
11.3 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Compass Bar, a charming pub on Achill Island, perfect for unwinding with local drinks and music.
Munnelly's Bar Lounge
16.6 km
Discover the charm of Munnelly's Bar Lounge in Gweesalia, Co. Mayo, where Irish hospitality meets delightful local brews.
Blouser's Pub
35.4 km
Discover the charm of Blouser's Pub in Westport, where authentic Irish hospitality meets a vibrant atmosphere and a delightful selection of drinks.
The Jester Bar
35.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Jester Bar, a premier sports bar in Westport, Co. Mayo, where great food meets live sports action.
Mac Brides Bar
35.5 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Mac Brides Bar in Westport – where every drink tells a story and every visit feels like home.
Morans Pub
35.5 km
Discover the delightful ambiance and unique character of Morans Pub, a true Irish bar in the heart of Westport, County Mayo.
Cosy Joe's
35.5 km
Cosy Joe's: A charming cocktail bar in Westport, offering creative drinks and a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Old Grainstore Westport
35.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic pub culture at The Old Grainstore in Westport, where every visit feels like home.
Danny's
35.5 km
Experience the excitement of sports and the warmth of community at Danny's, Westport's favorite sports bar with delicious food and live entertainment.
The Brewery
35.5 km
Experience the heart of Westport at The Brewery, a cozy bar offering local brews, live music, and a taste of Irish hospitality.
Walsh's
35.5 km
Discover the charm of Walsh's Bar in Westport, a lively spot for drinks, delicious food, and a taste of authentic Irish culture.
Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar
35.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Infused Cocktail & Wine Bar in Westport - where creative cocktails and fine wines blend beautifully.
Petie Joes Bar
35.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Petie Joe's Bar, where great food and vibrant atmosphere meet in the heart of Westport.