West Knock City Info
Charlestown runs straight down the eastern border of County Mayo and is the nearest town to West Knock airport. Charlestown is all about beautiful scenery, rural surroundings and good home-cooked, quality food. Built in the middle of the last century, the town now has a population of around 1,000 people and is located on the intersection of two national primary routes (the N17 and the N5). It really is a great place to visit for anyone looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of busy life. With its stunning lakes, vastly mapped hiking routes and numerous cycling trips readily available it is a great place for a family trip or to just lose yourself in the space and freedom of the surrounding areas.
- Barnacahogue Stone Fort: Situated around five miles from Charlestown and West Knock airport, the Barnacahogue stone fort dates back to the seventh and eighth centuries. It is a great example of old stone work and typical of Irish towns and villages. The stone work is exceptional and a must see for any individual interested in the rich history surrounding West Knock.
- Urlaur Abbey: This is a must see for any keen fisherman. Surrounding by a well know rich fishing lake, Urlaur Abbey was built by the Augustinians in 1483 and is set in beautiful, scenic surroundings. However more importantly for any fisherman, the lakes are known for their high quality trout and peaceful fishing conditions, ideal for anyone wanting to just chill out and escape the everyday life.
- Riverside Restaurant: For the foodies among you, the Riverside is the perfect place to take a break from hiking and get a spot of home-cooked Irish lunch. With traditional dishes and sizeable portions, the Riverside is a great pub set in a great location at reasonable prices.
Airport Info
West Knock airport has only been open since 1986, however now welcomes around 700,000 passengers annually. Formerly known as Knock International Airport, the airport was initially opened to bring employment to the local surrounding villages and to allow pilgrims to visit the local Roman Catholic Knock Shrine. However, since then the airport has welcomed thousands more passengers looking for a break from their busy city lives and a chance to unwind in the surrounding villages.
Location
West Knock Airport is located 3.5 miles south-west of Charlestown.
Facilities
The airport is well equipped to deal with the influx of passengers and demand from new locations across Europe. With free WI-FI access, airport shopping and fresh food and beverages the airport only adds to the relaxation of being in Ireland, whether you are just arriving or setting off for home. More specifically though, West Knock Airport has a both a sit down restaurant, a cafe bar as well as 2 different shops supplying duty free goods and travel necessities. The airport also has currency exchange facilities, ATM machines and car hire.
To and from the airport
By Taxi
There is a wide selection of local taxi companies that are available either by pre-booking or at the front of the terminal building. To get to Charlestown it will cost you around 15 Euros, however prices differ depending on how far you are travelling. For those looking for destinations further afield, click here for a full list of pricing.
By Bus
Bus Eireann supplies a range of services to various destinations across Ireland. By following the link www.buseireann.ie you can book online and save up to 10% on your bus ticket.
By Train
The nearest railway station is 22 km away in Ballyhaunis. To access this station (which is on the Dublin Heuston – Westport line), you can get transfers from the airport either by taxi or by bus.
By Car
West Knock Airport is located on the main N17 North, South road between Galway and Sligo and is well sign posted. For passenger drop offs there is a designated set down area outside the terminal doors. The airport also supplies car hire services so it is possible to hire a car and properly explore the surrounding areas.
Contact
T: +353 (0)94 9368100
W: www.irelandwestairport.com
