Discover Ballina

Ballina brings together a town, a river, woodland paths and culture in one place. The Wild Atlantic Way passes through the centre and crosses the River Moy there. When planning your trip, consider whether you are most interested in the riverside landscape, historic sites or cultural attractions. Ballina is served by bus and rail connections. Check current timetables separately if you are travelling by public transport.

River and paths in Ballina

Belleek Woods lies on the western side of the River Moy in Ballina Town. The woodland path runs through the historic Belleek Estate and passes historic sites, including a hermitage and an icehouse. Woodland and history sit side by side along the same path: the route takes in specific historic sites as well as scenery.

Salmon fishing is also an important part of Ballina’s connection with the River Moy. The river is regarded internationally as an exceptional salmon fishery, with several thousand salmon caught there each year. The Ridge Pool is in the heart of Ballina and is a spot for salmon anglers. The riverside landscape and fishing tradition therefore offer a distinct focus alongside the woodland paths of Belleek Woods.

Collections and history

The Jackie Clarke Collection spans 400 years and comprises more than 100,000 objects. It includes rare and significant books, manuscripts and photographs, as well as materials relating to prominent Irish figures. The collection offers an insight into a range of historical subjects and people. Its scale and variety of objects make it a cultural attraction in its own right in Ballina.

Visits to the Clarke Museum of Irish History are self-guided and include access to the fully accessible Heritage Garden. The Walled Heritage Garden is a public space in the heart of Ballina, fully accessible and open to everyone. It invites visitors to linger, explore and enjoy. As visiting arrangements and access information may change, check the latest visitor information before your trip.

Tours and festival

At Ballina Whiskey, you can take a behind-the-scenes tour and learn how whiskey is made. Tours must be booked in advance; check availability before your trip. It is therefore worth including the tour in your plans ahead of time.

The annual Ballina Salmon Festival lasts nine days and celebrates Ballina and County Mayo. The festival features family entertainment, music, arts, culture and heritage, as well as sport; the River Moy is also part of the festival theme. Dates and programme details change each year. If you would like to plan your stay around the festival, check the specific dates and current programme.

A look at County Mayo

In County Mayo, the National Museum of Ireland at Turlough Park also offers workshops, talks and tours throughout the year. A daily Mayo Local Link route 454 bus connects the museum with Ballina and Castlebar. If you are planning a visit to the museum, check the current timetable separately. This lets you distinguish Ballina’s own cultural attractions from other options in County Mayo, without treating them as attractions within the town.

Discover more destinations

Aghamore, Sheean, Westport, Bellagarvaun, Ballycastle, Kiltimagh, Doohooma, Glencorrib

For the main travel overview: County Mayo.