Knock

A 15-minute drive from the airport, Knock has several hotels catering to the hordes of pilgrims who visit its Catholic shrine. Simple, unfussy Knock House Hotel (Ballyhaunis Road) is one option. Travel further afield though, and County Mayo is peppered with historic country manors set in sprawling estates, such as mid-range Breaffy House Resort (Claremorris Road) in Castlebar and privately owned Coopershill House (Coopershill) near Riverstown. To really swank up your stay though, Belleek Castle (Garrankeel) near Ballina is stunning from its crenulated top to its medieval hall and bar decorated by the shipwrecked remains of a Spanish galleon.

If you're after religious paraphernalia and books then you're in luck, Knock is blessed with a never-ending supply. Head to the Westport area for everything from small craft stores such as Derryaun Crafts (Drummin) to department stores like Carraig Donn (Bridge Street), which offers the big Irish names in fashion, crystal and ceramics. Visit the craftsmen at work in Foxford Woollen Mills (Providence Road), and once impressed take your pick of the jewellery, art, woollen scarves, blankets, rugs and throws.

The Café le Chéile (Knock Museum) lies in the shadow of the Marian Shrine and serves up traditional Irish dishes; but there are plenty of good restaurants in the surrounding areas of Castlebar, Roscommon, Foxford and Ballina too. Try the Foxford Woollen Mills (Providence Road) for seasonal Irish favourites such as Guinness stew, while Café Rua (New Antrim Street) in Castlebar dishes up the local pick of cheeses, pickles and pâté, and much more besides.

Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival

June

This festival invades the local pubs over three days to bring folk and bluegrass music to the town of Westport.

South Sligo Summer School

July

Head to the town of Tubbercurry and indulge in the delights of Irish music and dance. Local pubs host concerts and tutorial sessions, where you can have a go at the tin whistle and bodhrán; an Irish drum.

Ballina Salmon Festival

July

Heritage Day is a highlight of this eight day festival, when locals dress up in 19th century costumes to celebrate everything that’s salmony and fishy. Fireworks add the the fun of the street parties and art celebrations, in addition to fishing competitions and raft races on the Moy River.

Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage

July

The last Sunday of July sees tens of thousands undertake an extraordinary pilgrimage to the holy Croagh Patrick mountain, many shirtless and barefoot.

Castlebar International Four Days Walking Festival

July

Explore this beautiful part of western Ireland with other ramblers at July’s walking festival, taking in the mountains, river, bogs and loughs as you go.