Irish town that is ancestral home of Hollywood royalty with hidden fairytale

The small town of Newport in County Mayo, despite its size and population, is a place of beauty and historical significance that leaves many visitors in awe. Known to many as the ancestral home of Princess Grace of Monaco , this quaint town sits along the stunning Clew Bay, just north of the bustling town of Westport.

Despite having a population of less than 1,000, it offers a variety of activities and experiences for all types of holidaymakers. Newport was originally established by a Quaker family and experienced a period of prosperity in the mid-18th century due to its thriving linen industry. However, by the 19th century, the nearby town of Westport had surpassed Newport as the local economic powerhouse.

Evidence of the town's rich history can be seen throughout Newport. The old railway viaduct is a prominent feature, while St. Patrick's Church, built in 1914, boasts beautifully crafted stained glass windows.

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Rockfleet Castle is believed to be the final resting place of Grace O'Malley, the infamous Irish pirate queen, who died in 1603. Additionally, Burrishoole Friary, founded in 1470, serves as a testament to Newport's religious significance in Ireland's past.

However, the most notable association with Newport is perhaps the Kelly homestead. Hollywood star Grace Kelly, who later became Princess Grace of Monaco, was born in Philadelphia , USA. The actress had strong Irish roots through her grandfather, John Kelly, a native of the Co Mayo town. In 1887, John emigrated from Ireland to the United States, a journey shared by millions of his contemporaries.

In Philadelphia, Kelly established a construction company and found success. He evidently instilled a sense of Irish pride in his granddaughter. After becoming the Princess of Monaco by marrying Prince Rainer III in 1956, she visited Ireland several times.

In 1976, she purchased her ancestral home for £7,500. Tragically, Grace passed away in 1982, but Drimurla - the village where her grandfather hailed from - featured in her funeral as a wreath was made from wildflowers from the area.

Newport reciprocated Kelly's affection when a statue was unveiled in honor of the Hollywood icon near the town in March 2023. Her son, Prince Albert of Monaco, was present to help unveil the memorial to his late mother.

Although the Kelly home now lies in ruins, it continues to attract many tourists eager to see the birthplace of one of the biggest movie stars of the 1950s. While the past provides intrigue and draws many tourists, the town also offers plenty of modern activities, making it an ideal tourism destination.

The picturesque landscape of Newport offers a plethora of outdoor activities. For astronomy enthusiasts, the town's proximity to the Gold Tier International Dark-Sky Park is a boon, offering clear views of the night sky due to minimal light pollution. Star safaris, astrophotography workshops, and moonlit hikes are just some of the activities on offer.

For fishing enthusiasts, Newport is an ideal base, with ample opportunities for river, lake, and sea fishing. If fishing isn't your thing, there's no shortage of water sports available in the area.

Stand-up paddling, kayaking, and water zorbing are all on offer in Clew Bay. You can also embark on a sea safari, taking in the stunning scenery of western Ireland while learning about the region's history and its diverse plant and animal life.

Thanks to its beautiful surroundings, Newport is a popular spot for hiking and cycling. The Western Way and the Bangor Trail offer challenging hikes, but the breathtaking views and fresh country air make any subsequent muscle soreness worthwhile.

The Great Western Greenway, a 26-mile award-winning cycle route free from traffic, is a fantastic way to take in the countryside while burning off the calories from the delicious local food and drink.

There are a variety of accommodation options to cater for all budgets, along with five pubs where you can enjoy a perfect pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music. Two of these pubs, Walsh's Bridge Inn and The Grainne Uaile, offer food, while Kelly's Kitchen is known for its beautifully prepared local dishes.

For those wanting to experience the best of rural Ireland, including vibrant local communities, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich history that permeates every corner, a trip to Newport comes highly recommended.