Mayo has no shortage of wonderful outdoor spots that are ideal for heading out for the day or for a family walk. Here are some of the best outdoor places in Mayo, so pack up the car with a picnic (don’t forget the kids!) and enjoy the fine scenery in the county.

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From beaches to woods to lakes, you’ll find it all in County Mayo. Here are some of my family’s favourites to help you plan!

Best Outdoor Places in Mayo for Families

Turlough House and NMI Museum of Country Life

Home of the NMI Museum of Country Life, you’ll find beautiful gardens, a lake to walk around, and picnic spots. There’s also a café at the Museum if you need refreshments.

Lecanvey Pier

Behind the wall at Lecanvey Pier is a great sun spot with lovely views of Clew Bay. We love to head there for a paddle and a play in the sand.

Belleek Woods

Image: Robbie Reynolds

Belleek Woods are situated along the banks of the River Moy. It is a lovely area of around 6 miles of forest paths, some of which are along the banks of the River. It’s also a fab place for picnics at the dedicated picnic area. Look out for the fairy trail too!

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Brackloon

From Westport, take N59 to Leenaun. After approx. 8 km., turn right off N59 at sign for “Owenwee”. The site entrance is 250 m. further up on right. The forest road through Brackloon provides a very pleasant walk through an oak woodland landscape.

Tourmakeady

In the village of Partry turn off the N84 at signpost to Tourmakeady. Follow the signs through a series of minor roads for approx 10km to site entrance.

There is a lovely lake walk and a nature trail through the forest. It is on the shore of Lough Mask and there are great viewing points and picnic sites also.

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The Great Western Greenway

The Great Western Greenway is possibly one of the best places to cycle in Mayo. There are three sections to the Greenway all differing in distance.

The Westport – Newport section is 12.5km long and very picturesque – and handy if based in Westport or Newport for a family break.

Clew Bay

As you enter Westport from Castlebar you have a lovely view of Clew Bay and all the little islands in it. You can drive westwards away from Westport and you can see it all the way.

Achill Island and Keem Bay

Image: © Tourism Ireland

Achill Island offers some of the most spectacular scenery and beaches in Mayo. There are 4 Blue Flag beaches in Achill: Dooega, Keel, Dugort, Golden Strand and then there’s Keem Bay with one of the most famous beaches in Mayo. This beautiful horseshoe bay is overlooked by Croaghaun Mountain to the northeast and Moyteoge Head to the southwest.

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Lough Lannagh

Lough Lannagh in Castlebar has easy walks and beautiful swans which are pretty to watch in the water. The playground at Lough Lannagh is good with equipment to suit all ages.

Westport Playground

There is a fantastic playground beside the Leisure Park & Cinema in Westport with lots for the little ones and some stuff for bigger kids too.

Along the Railway way there is a Skate Park and also an adult fitness park along with astro turf basketball court – so lots for everyone!

Ballina Playground

Ballina has a great playground at Tom Ruane Park for everyone and a nice picnic area too.

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Have your say! Do you have any favourite outdoor places in Mayo to go with the kids?  Tell us in the comments below.