Bangor Erris

Situated on the banks of the Owenmore River, Bangor Erris (in Irish Beannchar or Baingear), in the parish of Kiltane, is the gateway to the Erris Peninsula, linking Belmullet with Ballina and Westport. Only 2km from the 1000 hectares Carramore Lake, Bangor is an angler's paradise and a popular destination for salmon and sea trout fishing.

Major Denis Bingham

Bangor Erris was founded c1820, by Major Bingham, as a stopping place for people travelling to Erris. He chose Bangor because of its location on the banks of the Owenmore river, coupled with the fact that it was situated at the crossroads of two old roads which had been in use from the middle of the 18th century. One road led from the Mullet peninsula to Castlebar and the other went from Inver (Kilcommon) to Newport and both roads were repaired by order of the County Assizes in 1793. This crossroads village of Bangor was well sheltered from the worst of the prevailing winds making it an attractive stopover for travellers.

Walking & Cycling

The village nestles at the foot of the "Bangor Trail" a 29km mountain pass across the Nephin Beg Mountain Range to Newport and there are many beautiful walks in the area. The endless network of quiet country roads in the vicinity offer walkers and cyclists the opportunity to experience some of the most scenic views in this part of Mayo.

The historic Céide Fields Visitor is a half hour drive while the superb Carne 18-hole golf links in Belmullet is a mere 15km.

Why not come to Bangor Erris and see for yourself.

Song

"I left Bangor Erris though only a boy, with only one shirt on me back ..." Check out the lyrics of the 'Tim Máirtin Jack' song.