Ballyvary – Béal an Bhearaigh

Ballyvary Village

Ballyvary, or Bellavary as it is sometimes spelt on maps, is a small Village in the heart of Mayo situated on the N5, 10km East of Castlebar.  According to the 2006 census the population stands at 147.  Its central location makes it an ideal spot for people to stop off on their journeys around Mayo.  Its Irish name – Beal Átha Bhearaigh – means ‘Mouth of the Ford of the Barrys’ this refers to the Barry family of Castlebar who built their Castle in the town in the mid 13th Century.  James McFarlan’s Stastical Survey of Mayo, published in 1802, lists Ballyvary as a County Town.  According to McFarlan Ballyvary was granted its charter in 1752, this allowed it to hold 3 Fairs annually – May, August and November, although tradition would suggest that fairs were being held prior to this date.

In 1983 the Village was by-passed when the new N5 was constructed.  This has meant that the Village has had much of its traffic diverted from the centre and has allowed for a much improved lifestyle for residents.  Four years ago the Ballyvary Enhancement Association was established and continues to work to make Ballyvary a better place to live in, work in and visit.  Since 2006 the Village has participated in the Tidy Towns competition and continues to improve year on year.  This year the Enhancement Association, in conjunction with Tóchar Valley and the County Council, has establish two localised Loop Walks that reveal the beautiful natural landscape and archaeological/heritage sites in the locality.

Clydagh River

Natural Features
Clydagh River
Diverse Flora & Fauna
Walking Routes

Heritage Sites
Currane Castle
Old Courthouse
Old Station House
Mass Rock
Gallow’s Fort Hill
Holy Well
Fulachta Fia & Ringforts