Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Over time, the agitation worked, and eventually “boycotting” became a popular tactic in
labor conflicts.
• At Neale, go north on R-334, then take N-84 from Ballinrobe to Partry. At Partry, turn
left off N-84 onto R-330 in the direction of Westport (the easy-to-miss turnoff is just after
you pass the thatch-roofed Village Inn). In the countryside a few kilometers to your right
is the site of the...
In1798,aFrench invasion force supported bylocals dealt the British anembarrassing loss
here. The surprised British forces were routed, and their rapid retreat is slyly remembered
in Irish rebel lore as the “Castlebar races.” Unfortunately for the rebels, this proved to
be the last glimmer of hope for Irish victory in that uprising. The Red Coats reorganized
and within weeks defeated the small force of 1,300 Frenchmen and the ill-equipped Irish
rebels.ThecapturedFrenchsoldiersweretreatedasprisonersofwar,whiletheIrishrebels
were executed.
• Continue on R-330 to...
On arrival in Westport, soak up the genteel vibe—lacking in many other Irish towns. Park
alongtheMallunderthetreesthatlinetheshallowcanal-likeriver.Thisisaplannedtown,
built in Georgian style in the late 1700s to support the adjacent estate of Westport House
(skip it for better manors at Mount Stewart House and Muckross House). The town once
thrived on the linen industry created by local Irish handlooms. But after the Act of Union
withBritainin1801,WestportwasunabletocompetewiththeindustrializedBritishlinen-
makers and fell into decline. The town is still pretty and a good place for a relaxed lunch
and some exploration on foot.
