Horseback Riding Outside Westport: Clew Bay Beach & Countryside

Ride the Clew Bay shoreline and watch for seals from the saddle

A 2-hour guided horseback ride from Carrowholly Stables near Westport takes you through quiet country roads and onto the open beach at Clew Bay, where you'll ride past Seal Rock and Dorinish Island with Croagh Patrick rising behind you. Your local, qualified guide gives full instruction before you set off, so beginners are welcome. The pace stays within your group's ability, though confident riders can canter the open strand. Riding hat and boots are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Two hour guided horse ride

• Receive riding instruction
• Ride through countryside roads
• Ride along Clew Bay shoreline
• Spot seals on Seal Rock
• Pass Dorinish Island
• Enjoy views of Croagh Patrick

The experience

The ride starts at Carrowholly Stables and heads out through the countryside before dropping down onto the wide strands of Clew Bay. This is the western edge of County Mayo, where the bay is dotted with islands. Croagh Patrick, the pilgrim mountain thousands climb barefoot every July, stands behind you the whole way. Most people on any given ride have little or no experience, and your guide is local and qualified, giving full instruction before you set off so you're comfortable in the saddle before you reach the beach.

As you ride the shoreline, keep an eye on the water: seals haul out on Seal Rock most days, and you'll pass Dorinish Island, the small island John Lennon bought in the 1960s and once planned to live on. Riders who can rise to the trot will get more out of the coastal stretch. Confident riders can canter across the open strand. The pace is yours to set within your group's ability, and the whole ride takes two hours.

What’s included

• Qualified local guide leading the full 2-hour ride.
• riding hat and boots.
• full instruction before departure so beginners feel confident in the saddle.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 17 Feb 2027

AgesAdult (18 to 64 years) · Senior (65 and older) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Under 13: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 14 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ireland Wild Escapes

Is this one for you?The pace stays within your group's ability, so intermediate riders who want to trot and canter get more from the coastal stretch, while beginners stay comfortable at a walk. Riders must be at least 13 years old and in moderate physical fitness. If you have spinal injuries, are pregnant, or have cardiovascular concerns, this ride is not suitable.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years). Children under 13 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I go horseback riding if I've never ridden before?

Beginners are welcome on every ride. Your guide is qualified and gives full instruction before you set off, ensuring you feel comfortable in the saddle before you reach the beach. Most people on any given ride have little or no experience.

What will I see while riding along Clew Bay?

You'll ride past Seal Rock, where seals haul out most days, and Dorinish Island, which John Lennon owned in the 1960s. Croagh Patrick, the mountain of pilgrimage, rises behind you throughout the ride, and the bay itself is dotted with islands.

How fast do we ride, and can I canter on the beach?

The pace stays within your group's ability. Riders who can rise to the trot will enjoy more of the coastal stretch, and confident riders can canter across the open strand. Your guide sets the speed based on the group.

What's included in the ride, and what do I need to bring?

Riding hat and boots are included. You should wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding and bring water if you prefer your own. The ride lasts two hours and covers countryside and open beach.

Is there an age limit for this ride?

Riders must be 13 years or older. Your guide will ask about your riding experience (whether you're a beginner, intermediate or advanced), so they can match you with the right pace and group.