Westport and Clew Bay

Westport House with Croagh Patrick just poking its head above the trees, in the background

The square in the centre of Westport.

The traffic flow around these small towns is interesting to watch. To stand at an intersection with many roads joining into one, without any agro, is an art form. So when we heard cars tooting their horns, we looked around to see what was happening. A driver, I'd say a visitor to town, was entering one of these roads the wrong way, it was a one way street, and the locals were warning them, not yelling at them. Just delightful to experience. On many country lanes, reversing skills are at a premium as the lanes aren't wide enough for two vehicles, especially if one is a large tractor. The English and Irish drivers are courteous and patient.

A big monument of St Patrick is significent for this area as St Patrick climbed Croagh Patrick barefooted and then fasted for 40 days while on top of the mountain. He was interceding for the souls of the people of Ireland. Allan and Graham were all geared up for their last climb of our trip but when they realised that Ammie and Joan didn't want or need to make this pilgrimage to the top of Croagh Patrick, their desire diminished. The top part of the climb is reported to be very difficult and the day was turning hot so they laid aside their longing. We found the perfect t-shirt for them - 'I nearly climbed Croagh Patrick'.

A quiet day wandering around Westport, a lovely tourist town, and visiting Westport House and grounds on Clew Bay was all we needed to do.

These kids were most enthusiastic as they busked on one of the streets. And were much better than the rapper with his loud noise just down the road.

Westport House with Clew Bay in the foreground. Our accommodation was just up the road. The town was very busy and we were very happy that we walked into town as the roads were gridlocked with traffic.

Our final excursion was to take a cruise on Clew Bay which has 365 islands in it, one for every day of the year. I really did enjoy our boat ride!

That's Croagh Patrick in the background. The pathway up the mountain can be clearly seen. Thousands of people climb it every year, some barefooted to identify with St Patrick.

This island was bought by John Lennon. His intention was to turn it into a nature retreat. He had a caravan delivered by boat and did stay out there. But his plans were thwarted when someone shot him. Yoko eventually sold the island and donated the proceeds to an orphanage in Ireland.

If you look really carefully you can see the church that was built on the top of Croagh Patrick, it's slightly to the left.

Looking back towards The Harbour Mill (the dark solid block of buildings with three light stripes down it), on Westport Quay, where we stayed.

Our last evening meal together before driving to the farm at Corranure. We had a laugh when we saw this photo. The platter of food was large, actually huge. As you can see, I was shocked! But we were enjoying the look on the lady's face beside us. Perhaps she should have joined us as there was enough food for her. A really great meal and lovely time together with Graham and Ammie.