When the weather is less than ideal, don’t fret— the rainy days can be just as magical as the sunny ones here in Westport. Start by checking out some of these excellent indoor activities below, or use the inclement weather as an excuse to finally sign up for some of the best classes Westport has to offer. During a quick storm, you can always find refuge inside one of Westport's many cosy coffee shops & pubs.
The best things to do on a rainy day in Westport
Enjoy a deluxe rainy day indoors in Westport with these tours, classes and shows all over town...
1. Hide out in the opulance of Westport House
A must-see rain or shine, Westport House and Estate offer a whole range of fun and insightful tours. Take a guided or self-guided tour (using an audio tour app) of the house itself and discover its incredible history, which goes right back to the 16th century and Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley. If the kids are in toe, send them off to the new Interactive Gaming Zone or Tiny Town where they'll be content for hours. There are also a whole host of activities and brilliant food on offer across the estate to fuel your adventures.
2. Chill out with a mani and massage
Many of the hotels in Westport boast world-class spas, each offering their own signature treatments. Head to Westport Plaza’s Spa Sula thermal suites and find a tranquil sanctuary – and an outdoor hot tub. Knockranny House Hotel’s Spa Salveo offers everything from lavender floatation therapy to its Scandinavia-inspired Sami Zen treatment package.
Feel like a little bit of India in the west? The Spa at the Westport Coast Hotel offers a range of rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments.
You can find out more info on the best spas and places to stay in Westport here.
3. Take Centre Stage at Westport Theatre
With shows running almost every night of the week Westport Theatre is well worth a look. The programme hosts local to international acts, an ever-changing art gallery and a bar to buy your pre-show drinks and look out on the rain with beautiful views over Westport. The Visitor Information Point for Westport is located in the foyer which is open year-round during Box Office Opening hours.
4. Stretch out at The Yoga Root
A little oasis of calm at Westport Harbour, this state-of-the-art Yoga Studio offers over eighteen classes per week with specialised workshops at weekends which include Sound Baths, Caco Ceremonies and Restorative Yoga. You won't want to leave this tranquil cacoon.
5. Join the sesh at Matt Molloy's Pub
There's nothing like a good pint and a bag of Tayto while listening to some of Ireland's most talented musicians. Music in Matt Molloy's takes place in the middle room by the fire every night along with special events in their larger back bar throughout the year. Unmissable on a rainy evening.
6. Put your problem solving skills to the test...
Round up some of your most cunning friends for a private escape room experience at Éalu Escape Rooms. Whether you choose The House in The Woods or The Hidden Temple, you’ll have to solve puzzles and riddles to find your way out. Keep your wits about you—it’s trickier than you might think.
7. Catch a Movie
The W Cinema is a beloved entertainment hub. The Cinema also plays a vital role in the local community, hosting special events, film festivals, and screenings of Irish and independent films. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, family flicks, or side-splitting comedies, the W Cinema is the ultimate destination for movie magic on a rainy day.
8. Try your hand at baking Irish Soda Bread
Mary and Carmel are two local baking fanatics who are dying to introduce you to some of the fascinating aspects of traditional Irish soda bread making. Discover how Irish country butter is made and all the piseogs (superstitions!) around it in the past. Carmel will demonstrate how to make traditional Irish soda scones before you make them yourself.
While the scones are baking in the oven she will show you how to make traditional Irish brown soda bread. Deliciously traditional and utterly Irish!
9. Learn to tell your gouda from gorgonzola at Savoir Fare
Fromage lovers here have long known about the legendary selection at Savoir Fare. A bustling shop/café/lunchtime restaurant which seats just 25 people. On a wet day, this intimate Persian-style enclave becomes a delightful haven, as you observe passers-by dodging the rain from the comfort of its spacious windows. The venture is owned by French/Irish chef Alain Morice who passionately holds the belief that “Irish produce is the best in the world, bar none." So you will find small Irish artisans who produce quality on their menu. Except for the wine...thankfully that comes from dryer sunnier climates.
10. Warm up with Irish Whiskey Tasting
The Old Grainstore Bar, a whiskey lover's paradise and you guessed it, an old Grainstore! Hidden out the back of this traditional Irish pub you'll find the whiskey bar which boasts an impressive selection of over 150 whiskey brands from all around the world. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned connoisseur, there's a whiskey waiting to tickle your taste buds. From smooth and rich Irish blends like Jameson and Redbreast to rare single-cask bottles, they have it all. If you don't drink whiskey don't worry, they have everything else you'll need on a rainy day too!
