Killala Quay

Killala (in Irish: Cill Ala) is a picturesque seaside village six and a half miles north-west of Ballina in north Mayo. The town of Killala is famous in Irish history for the part it played in the 1798 rebellion - "The Year of the French". Killala was the site of the first battle of the French force of General Humbert in the 1798 Rebellion. On August 22nd, 1798, Humbert landed at nearby Kilcummin Harbor with 1,109 troops with the objective of supporting the United Irishmen. The force quickly seized the town. Humbert advanced to Ballina, which he captured with little trouble. The force them moved further and on August 27th it won a battle in Castlebar against larger force commanded by General Lake.

There are beautiful, unspoilt beaches in the region, including nearby Ross - a Blue Flag beach, excellent for swimming and other watersports. Seals can often be seen in Killala Bay or nearby Bartra Island.

Along the left bank of the river are the ruins of several monasteries. Rosserk, a Franciscan house of strict observance, was founded in 1460. The Abbey of Moyne still stands on a site just over the river, and further on, north of Killala, was the Dominican Rathfran Friary. On the promontory of Errew running into Lough Conn another monastery existed as such till comparatively recent times. A round tower in Killala itself, still preserved, indicated the ancient celebrity of the place as an ecclesiastical centre.

The Weekend Painting Retreat at Creevagh in Killala is suitable for those who have experience with painting (acrylics or oils) or those who are beginning to paint, but would like to improve their technique and broaden their experience. Drawing inspiration from the natural environment, participants focus on observation of form and interpretation of the landscape through colour, light and space.

Based in the historic town of Killala, Wild Atlantic Cultural Tours offer a range of unique and interesting cultural experiences - day tours and holiday packages - along the wild north coast of Mayo, Ireland.

Touring Mayo?  Stay with us at the 4 star McWilliam Park Hotel, enjoy complimentary use of our leisure facilities.