Westport RFC Summer Fixture

Westport RFC have been playing rugby in Co. Mayo since 1925, making them one of the oldest clubs in Connacht. A summer fixture at their Carrowholly grounds is a proper afternoon out - unpretentious, free to get through the gate, and set against the kind of Mayo countryside that makes the journey as good as the match itself. It suits anyone who fancies live sport without the fuss of ticketing, queues, or steep prices: families, visitors passing through, or locals looking for something on a Saturday afternoon.

What to expect

The Bulls - Westport RFC’s long-standing nickname - compete in the Connacht Junior 1A League and have built a strong club base over the past century. A summer fixture in late August typically falls in the pre-season window, so expect a competitive but open match: teams running shape, getting fit, and testing combinations before the league proper kicks off in September. The atmosphere is clubhouse-close and low-key. Supporters stand or sit pitchside, there is a real sense that everyone knows someone on the pitch, and the clubhouse bar is usually open after the final whistle. Refreshments are available at the club.

The Carrowholly grounds have two pitches developed when the club moved from its original Demesne site in 1984, with a purpose-built clubhouse added in 1986. Floodlights went in on the main pitch in 2017. It is a well-developed community ground - the result of decades of volunteer effort.

Getting there

Carrowholly is roughly three miles from Westport town centre, out towards the coast. Coming by car from Westport, follow the Golf Course Road - the grounds sit close to Westport Golf Club. Parking is available at the club. If you are arriving by public transport, Bus Eireann serves Westport from Galway, Castlebar, and Dublin, and the town is also on the Westport rail line from Dublin Heuston (about 3.5 hours). From the town centre you would need a taxi or a bike for the last few miles to Carrowholly.

While you’re in Westport

Westport is one of the most pleasant towns on the west coast - a planned Georgian town with the Carrowbeg River running through its tree-lined Mall and Croagh Patrick on the horizon. An afternoon match fits neatly before an evening meal on Bridge Street or a walk along the Quay. There is more to see in Westport and across Co. Mayo.

Good to know

• Date: Saturday 22 August 2026, kick-off 3:00pm
• Admission: Free
• Venue: Westport RFC Grounds, Carrowholly, Westport, Co. Mayo - approximately 3 miles from town
• Fixtures and updates: check westportrugby.ie before travel, as pre-season dates can shift