The Area
Put simply, the West Coast of Ireland is one of the most stunning places on earth. Glorious beaches, surfing, great cafes and (assuming the weather holds) great walks. The Wild Atlantic Way travels all the way around the coast and is definitely worth a stroll.
BALLINA (Béal an Átha)
Our local town on the River Moy, Ballina is known as Ireland’s salmon capital. The riverfront is lovely for a walk, and in town you’ll find plenty of cafés, restaurants, and shops. The Jackie Clarke Collection is a great little museum of Irish history, and the cathedral dominates the skyline. Ballina makes an easy base for a relaxed day of exploring, eating, and wandering around.
Enniscrone (Inniscrone)
Just fifteen minutes away, Enniscrone is the seaside village we love most, where Kate grew up and this is where you’ll usually find Kate & Olly on days other than the wedding! The long beach is perfect for a walk, a swim, or simply breathing in the Atlantic air. Surf schools line the beach for those keen to try the waves, and for a more relaxing afternoon there are the famous seaweed baths and a scenic links golf course. If you’re looking for a proper pint of Guinness, Hopkins is a local favourite (and very possibly where Olly will be found if he’s not in the sea).
Easkey (Iascaigh)
A little further along the coast, Easkey is a small village with a huge reputation among surfers. The waves here are powerful and the current strong, so it’s only for the very experienced — but even if you don’t surf, the dramatic Atlantic views make it worth the trip. By the pier you’ll find the ruins of Roslee Castle, also known as O’Dowd’s Castle or Easkey Castle, which add to the village’s wild and timeless atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee and just watch the ocean do its thing.
Near to Easkey, further east past Dromore West is also “The Beach Bar” – great pub and a lovely walk on another beach!
Foxford (Béal Easa)
Set inland on the banks of the River Moy, Foxford is a quieter change of pace. It’s home to the Foxford Woollen Mills, where you can see traditional weaving in action and pick up a scarf or blanket to take home. There are also riverside walks, peaceful countryside trails, and a few small museums to poke around in. Perfect for anyone wanting to slow things down for an afternoon.
Killala (Cill Ala)
Further west along the coast lies Killala, a harbour town with history at every turn. Its round tower is one of the best-preserved in Ireland, and nearby you’ll find abbey ruins like Moyne Abbey and Rathfran Abbey. The beaches around here, such as Lacken Strand and Ross Beach, are quiet and beautiful, ideal for a walk or even a dip if you’re brave. Killala Bay is popular for kayaking and fishing, and the town itself is a good spot to soak up some of Mayo’s history and charm.