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Clew Bay Heritage Centre: Unveiling Westport's Story

Explore Westport's captivating past at the Clew Bay Heritage Centre, a treasure trove of local history and genealogy on the scenic Quay.

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Discover the rich history and heritage of Westport and the Clew Bay area at this charming museum. Housed in a 19th-century building on the Quay, the center offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past, from pre-Christian times to the present day, with a special focus on genealogy.

A brief summary to Clew Bay Heritage Centre CLG

Local tips

  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider joining a guided walking tour of Westport, often available during the summer, for a broader historical context.
  • If you're interested in genealogy, allocate extra time to explore the center's extensive research resources.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Westport town, head towards the Quay area. Follow the signs for 'The Quay'. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the town center. The Clew Bay Heritage Centre will be on your right as you walk along the Quay.

  • Public Transport

    From Westport Bus Station, follow signs to 'The Quay'. It's approximately a 15-minute walk to the Clew Bay Heritage Centre, located on your right along 'The Quay'. Local bus routes also serve the Quay area. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information. A single bus fare within Westport is approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Westport town. A short taxi ride from the town center to the Clew Bay Heritage Centre on the Quay will cost approximately €10-€15. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Clew Bay Heritage Centre CLG

The Clew Bay Heritage Centre, situated in a 19th-century stone building on Westport's scenic Quay, serves as a gateway to the captivating history and culture of the town and its surrounding bay. The building itself has a history, once used for holding live pigs prior to transport. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits that trace the area's story from pre-Christian times to the present, encountering artifacts, documents, and photographs connected to Westport and the Clew Bay area. The center delves into various aspects of local history, including the story of Croagh Patrick, the legend of Grace O'Malley (Granuaile), John MacBride, Maud Gonne, the Irish War of Independence, the 1798 Rebellion, and the evolution of schooling in the area. A scale model of Westport provides an engaging overview of the town and Clew Bay. Notably, the Heritage Centre offers a genealogical research service, backed by an extensive computer database encompassing church records, census returns, local newspapers, and street directories. This makes it a valuable resource for those seeking to trace their ancestors in the Clew Bay area, from Achill Island to Louisburgh. The Clew Bay Heritage Centre is operated by the Westport Historical Society. Visitors describe it as an engaging and informative experience, offering a unique glimpse into the region's rich past.

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