Shopping:

Kevin Sykes' Galway Violins Workshop
Since 1985 Kevin Sykes has been making his 'Galway Violins' in his workshop in High St. Galway, gateway to Connemara and capital of the west of Ireland. Catering to the needs of the beginner to the professional musician, Sykes takes pride in providing a personalized and professional service to his customers. His workshop is open Monday through Saturday. However, in order to accommodate all of his customers personally and to avoid disappointment it is advisable to phone prior to your visit. Open most days. Call for an appointment.

Address: Killeen, Ballyvary, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: + 353 94 903 1019
http://www.kevinsykes.com/

Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre
Founded in 1892 by a local nun to provide work for a community ravaged by the effects of the Irish famine, Foxford Woollen Mills brought prosperity to the area through the worldwide sales of beautiful tweeds, rugs, and blankets. Using a multimedia presentation, the center tells the story of this local industry, then offers an on-site tour of the working mills. Tours run every 20 minutes and last approximately 45 minutes. A restaurant, shop, exhibition center, art gallery, heritage room, and other craft units (including a doll-making workshop) are also part of the visit.

Address: St. Joseph's Place, Foxford, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: 094/925-6488
http://travel.nytimes.com/travel/guides/europe/ireland/county-mayo/attraction-detail.html?vid=1154654617537

Lilly's Antiques
Specializing in ‘famineware,’ spongeware, Victorian and Edwardian art deco, period pieces and collectables, Lily’s Antiques also offers a wide selection of estate jewelry and a large selection of Nicholas Mosse Pottery.

Address: County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: +353 (0) 94 9545799
http://www.lillysantiques.com/

Lodgings:

Rockville (B&B)
Set on a hillside with spectacular views of lush Irish farmland, you will receive a warm welcome at Rockville. Surrounded by millennium award-winning gardens, Rockville overlooks Creggan lake and Clew Bay. Enjoy a hearty Irish breakfast before you set off to explore the beauty of the countryside.

Address: Rockville Guest House, Moyhastin, Westport, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: +353 98 28949
http://www.rockvilleguesthouse.com/?CFID=256658&CFTOKEN=60327820

The Olde Woods B&B
The Olde Woods is a well-known local landmark in this Mayo village with its broad street and friendly atmosphere. The Dempsey family extend a 'Cead Míle Fáilte' and they invite you to the cordial hospitality of this family-run bed and breakfast that is Fáilte-Ireland approved.

Address: Balla, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: ++ 353 (0) 94 936 5022
http://balla.mayo-ireland.ie/OldeWood.htm

The Moat
Centrally located in the heart of Mayo, this B&B is an ideal base for touring many attractions throughout the county including shops, pubs and all amenities in Balla village. There are rooms available to rent in winter that are ideal for foreign students wishing to work in Ireland.

Address: 20 The Moat, Balla, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: +353 (0) 94 936 6914
http://balla.mayo-ireland.ie/rooney.htm

 

Hangouts:

The Olde Woods
The Olde Woods is regarded as a local landmark (and popular bar) in the village of Balla, County Mayo where cool drinks and a warm welcome awaits.

Address: The Olde Woods, Balla, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: +353 (0) 94 936 5022
http://balla.mayo-ireland.ie/OldeWood.htm

Towers Bar
The Towers Bar is situated on the Quay side of Westport with wonderful coastal views to complement the excellent pints and cozy atmosphere.

Address: The Quay, Westport, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: +353 98 26534
link here

The Broken Jug
Situated in the heart of Ballina, this extensive pub is really warm, welcoming and cozy. Providing excellent food and drink, their carvery lunches are renowned. A haven for the tourist or the weary shopper, the Broken Jug is also very popular with the young, hipster crowd.

Address: Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone:+353 96 72379
link here

Mannion's Pub
Mannion’s is a traditional Irish pub with live music sessions every Tuesday throughout the year. "Good people. Good Guinness." 'nuff said.

Address: Mannion's, Balla, County Mayo, Ireland
Telephone: + 353 (0) 94 936 5093
http://www.mayo-ireland.ie/Mayo/Towns/Balla/mannions.htm