Experience Royalty at Ashford Castle
Discover the luxury of Ashford Castle, a historic resort hotel in County Mayo, where opulence meets adventure in a breathtaking setting.
Nestled in the scenic backdrop of County Mayo, Ashford Castle is a historic hotel that embodies luxury and elegance. Once the ancestral home of the Guinness family, this iconic estate offers guests a unique experience with its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and a range of activities including falconry and archery, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
A brief summary to Ashford Castle
- Ashford Castle Dr, Cong, Ashford Or Cappacorcoge, Co. Mayo, IE
- +353949546003
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your activities in advance, especially falconry and archery, as they can fill up quickly.
- Consider visiting during off-peak seasons for a quieter experience and potential discounts.
- Don’t miss the evening storytelling sessions that often take place in the castle’s drawing room.
- Take time to explore the castle grounds; the gardens and lakeside views are breathtaking.
- Dress smartly for dinner, as the dining experience is formal and enhances the castle's regal atmosphere.
Getting There
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Bus
From Westport, head to the Westport Bus Station located on Station Road. You can take the Bus Eireann service heading towards Galway. Make sure to check the schedule for the correct timing. After approximately 30 minutes, you will arrive at the Cong Village stop. Once you alight, you can ask locals for directions to Ashford Castle, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from Cong village. Head towards the main road and follow the signs to Ashford Castle.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, you can follow the scenic route from Westport to Cong before arriving at Ashford Castle. Start from the center of Westport and make your way to the Westport House and Gardens. Continue along the Greenway path that leads to the village of Cong. This walk is approximately 10 miles and will take around 3-4 hours. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and nature along the way. Once you reach Cong, follow the previous walking directions to Ashford Castle.
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Taxi
For a more convenient option, consider taking a taxi from Westport directly to Ashford Castle. You can contact local taxi services, and the journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting your trip. The taxi will take you directly to the entrance of Ashford Castle, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Discover more about Ashford Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ballykine Castle
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The Pyramid
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Ballycurrin Lighthouse
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Currarevagh House
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Curraghduff Farm
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Derroura Woods
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Oughterard Shrubbery
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Brigit's Garden & Café
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Joyce Country Sheepdogs
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Moore Hall
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Castle Hackett
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Knockma Wood
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Knockma peak Knights Tower (in Ruins)
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Ballintubber Abbey
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Loughwell Farm Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church
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Monk’s Fishing House
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Cong Abbey
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Cong Wood
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Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara
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The Quiet Man Museum, Tours & Giftshop
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The Guinness Tower (1864)
0.7 km
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Cong Dry Aqueduct
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Dog's Cave
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Pigeon Hole Cave
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Pigeon Hole Wood
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Ard Na Gaoithe, Forest Recreational Park
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Lough Corrib
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Clonbur Wood
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Clonbur Wood Car Park
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Essential places to dine
Cullen's at the Cottage
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Wilde's at the Lodge
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John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway
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Connemara Lake Hotel
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Connemara Greenway Restaurant
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The Lough Inn
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Screebe House
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Ellie McGuires Restaurant
26.3 km
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Sheridan's Bar & Restaurant
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Old Arch Bar & Bistro
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Pullman Restaurant
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Westport Country Lodge Hotel
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McHughs Traditional Pub & Restaurant
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Oxtail Kitchen
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The Country House Bistro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lilly's Antiques and Collectables
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Walkin's Gift Shop
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John P. Keogh & Sons Irish Gifts and Crafts
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Connemara Sheep and Wool Centre
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Jeremiah Higgins
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L’Armoire Boutique
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Shine Boutique
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Joyce's Craftshop
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The Fancy Nest
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Gateway Shopping Park
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The Gaiety Antique and Vintage Store
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Crowes Bar & Beer Garden
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Barr An Chaladh
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Blake's Bar
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Sally Longs Rock Bar
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The Ol' 55 Bar
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The Skeff Bar
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O'Connell's Bar
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Murty Rabbitt's
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