As 2024 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible moments that made this year at Westport Estate truly unforgettable.
From grand openings to cherished traditions, this year has been packed with adventure, culture, and community spirit. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights!
A Cultural Start to the Year
- The Countdown Begins: The year kicked off with excitement as we prepared for the highly anticipated opening of Westport Adventure, Mayo’s newest outdoor adventure park here at Westport Estate.
- Seamus Heaney: Listen Now Again: Westport House partnered with the National Library of Ireland in January to host this prestigious exhibition. After captivating audiences worldwide, this celebrated collection returned to Ireland, offering visitors an inspiring exploration of one of the country’s literary greats.
Adventures Take Shape
- Filming the Westport Adventure Ad: In partnership with production company Roamer, we created an exciting promotional video shot in the heart of Westport Town. The ad highlighted our soon-to-open outdoor adventure park and featured the vibrant spirit of our amazing local community.
Welcoming Back Our Outdoor Escapes
- Caravan Park Reopening: The Estate’s Caravan Park reopened for the season, marking the beginning of another year of outdoor getaways.
Spring into Action
- Glamping and Camping Open: Outdoor enthusiasts returned as our glamping and camping facilities opened for the season.
- Rally the Globe: A stunning convoy of vintage cars visited Westport Estate, bringing elegance and nostalgia to our grounds.
- Iona University Visit: Staff and students from Iona University arrived as part of an exciting new campus pilot program.
- Westport Adventure Grand Opening: The gates to Mayo’s newest outdoor adventure park opened on May 3rd, with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony held on June 1st, featuring remarks by Cathal Hughes (Owner/Director) and Barry O’Connor (CEO).
Summer Fun
- BBQ & Beats Series at Gracy’s: Our summer-long event returned with DJs, live music, face painting, circus acts, magicians, and mouthwatering BBQs.
- Farmyard Delights: Visitors enjoyed a vibrant food scene, including Gracy’s Pizzeria, the Toastie Shack, Asian Street Food, Gracy’s To-Go, and brunch at Gracy’s Bistro.
Heritage and Craftsmanship
- National Heritage Week: Guests participated in traditional games, rope making, basket weaving, stone wall building, and decorative wood-turning demonstrations.
- Haslemere Gates Restoration: Renowned blacksmith John Hogan began restoring the historic gates, preserving a piece of the Estate’s rich history.
Spooky Season
- Sensory Day at Westport Adventure: This annual inclusive event brought accessible fun to our adventure park.
- Cathal Gavin Concert: Singer Cathal Gavin performed an evening of music at Westport House on October 12th.
- Halloween Festivities: Families enjoyed spine-tingling fun with two events—Shivers & Shadows: Samhain Ghost Tour and Westport Estate’s Spooky Halloween Adventure.
Festive Beginnings
- Westport Pubs Adventure Challenge: On November 2nd, local pubs competed in thrilling Westport Adventure competition. The Quay Bar Westport emerged victorious, earning the coveted title during celebrations at Gracy’s.
- Winter Wonderland Returns: The holiday season officially began with the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony, followed by the much-loved Winter Wonderland, where families met Santa and Mrs. Claus for magical memories.
Looking Ahead
- As the year unfolded, we also announced an exciting new chapter: the development of The Grace, a luxury hotel set to open in early 2026.
Thank You for an Amazing Year
From the grand opening of Westport Adventure to the return of seasonal favourites, 2024 was filled with joy, excitement, and community spirit.
We’re grateful to everyone who shared these moments with us, and we look forward to creating even more memories in 2025!
Happy Holidays from all of us at Westport Estate!
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