Westport House is an 18th-century Georgian mansion on Quay Road in Westport, County Mayo, built by the Browne family on a site linked to Grace O’Malley. Its rooms hold period furnishings, portraits, Waterford glass chandeliers and hand-painted murals; the grounds include gardens, woodland and views across Clew Bay. The house is currently closed for renovation, but the wider estate remains open for outdoor activities, camping and dining. Check what is operating before you go, as the house and attractions have had changing access.
A house built on a historic site
Westport House stands on land associated with Grace O’Malley, the 16th-century pirate queen. Before the present mansion, a castle belonging to her stood here. The Browne family, her descendants, built the house that became their family home for more than 300 years.
The Georgian house was designed by Richard Cassels and James Wyatt. It opened to the public in 1960 and has been known for its collection of rooms, artworks and historic furnishings. Accounts of the house describe around 30 rooms accessible to the public and six permanent exhibitions when it is open.
Rooms and collections
Inside, the house’s details include Waterford cut-glass chandeliers, hand-painted murals, portraits by Irish painters and antique furniture. Its collections also connect the estate to Grace O’Malley: a four-poster bed associated with her was part of the Marshall Doran collection. A dungeon remains within the house, linking the current building to the earlier history of the site.
Guided and self-guided visits have both been available. A guided visit gives context on the family and the rooms, while exploring independently allows more time with the house’s interiors and exhibitions. Check the current arrangements before setting out, as renovation work has affected access.
Gardens and estate grounds
The estate extends beyond the mansion, with gardens, a lake, terraces and woodland walks. Paths around the grounds offer views towards Clew Bay and the Atlantic coast; on clear days, the wider outlook includes Achill, Clare Island and Croagh Patrick. The Carrowbeg River runs through the area, and a walk through estate woodland passes an 18th-century cascade.
The original town of Westport was moved from the front lawn in the 1780s to make room for the estate gardens. This connection between house, town and grounds is part of the site’s history.
Planning a visit during renovation
The house is currently closed for renovation, while the wider Westport Estate remains open. Outdoor experiences, camping, caravans and glamping, and Gracy’s Pizzeria, Bar & Bistro are among the estate activities described as operating. Access to individual attractions and facilities can change, so check the estate’s website for current information before travelling.
When the house reopens, leave time for both the interiors and grounds. Past visits have taken longer than expected because there is a substantial collection of rooms to explore. Families have also had activities such as swan pedalos, a miniature train and a pirate-themed adventure park, though the availability of these attractions should be confirmed ahead of your visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Westport House open?
The house is currently closed for renovation. The wider Westport Estate remains open, but check the official website for current access and activities.
What can you see at Westport House?
When open, the house has Georgian rooms, period furnishings, artworks and exhibitions, with displays connected to Grace O’Malley. The estate grounds include gardens, a lake and woodland walks.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Allow around two to three hours to explore the house and grounds when the house is open.
What food is available at Westport House?
The estate has had tea rooms serving cakes and scones, and Gracy’s Gastro Bar has served food and weekend wood-fired pizzas. Check which dining options are currently operating.
