Baile Chathail

In east Mayo, close to the border of County Sligo, Charlestown was built as a result of the Norman invasion, and the town itself was constructed between 1845 and the early 1900s. It was also the home of the grandmother of Oasis band members Noel and Liam Gallagher, so you never know who you just might meet walking the streets!  

Top 10 Things to Do in Charlestown

1. Charlestown’s newly refurbished Arts Centre – home to the annual John Healy Literary Weekend - is worth a visit for art exhibitions, cultural workshops, film & music events.  
2. Enjoy craic & ceol in the town’s pubs – with live traditional music sessions every weekend.  
3. Lots to do for families & kids, with a great playground, community park, and a lifeguarded open air swimming pool (during summer months)!  
4. Items of archaeological interest have been discovered in the Charlestown area, and are now on display at the National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, in nearby Turlough. Ask a local to find out more about the history & heritage of Charlestown!  
5. Charlestown is situated within easy access of some great golf courses, incredible fishing lakes & rivers, and near several walking & cycling trails – enjoy the great outdoors!  
6. Discover the Barnacahoge Stone Fort (7th century), the relic of St. Attracta’s Well (5th century), the Abbey at Banada (1483) or the famous Costelloe Tomb (1822). Or instead visit more recent historical sites such as the Town Hall (1900) or St. James’ Church (1856)!  
7. Enjoy an afternoon in nearby Foxford Woollen Mills. Explore the unique history of the mill’s famous traditional design and craftsmanship, from the 1800s to the present day.  
8. A day trip to Knock Shrine w hich h as o ne o f t he m ost interesting histories of any place in Ireland. See all the important points of interest around the 100-acre complex and learn about the fascinating history of the Knock Apparition with experienced guides.  
9. Travel to nearby Straide to discover an exhibition of documents, photographs, prison records, posters & letters belonging to one of the founders of the Irish Land League at the excellent Michael Davitt Museum, a restored church building beside Straide Abbey.  
10. Visit Hennigan’s Heritage Centre i n Swinford, s ituated i n unspoilt countryside overlooking Creagaballa Lake. This beautiful heritage centre tells the fascinating stories of local people over the past 200 years.  

For more information, visit the Charlestown Destination website