Things to see and do in Sligo
County Sligo boasts one of the most appealing stretches of coast on the Wild Atlantic Way. From its delightfully surfable waves crashing on broad golden shores, to the rolling green hills and misty mountaintops of the affectionately dubbed ‘Yeats country’, this is a county that attracts a distinct breed of adventure-loving traveller.
MULLAGHMORE HEAD
Meaning ‘the great summit’, the surf haven of Mullaghmore is one of the most popular places to visit in Sligo. Backed by rocky cliffs, its 2km sandy beach and pretty stone harbour beckon to walkers, while Mullaghmore Head offers stunning views out to Inishmurray Island.
STREEDAGH
From the Spanish Armada shipwreck site, to the fascinating fossils embedded in the rocks, a visit to the golden strand at Streedagh is one of the best things to do in Sligo for children. With easy walking along its 3km stretch, it’s one of the most tranquil spots in the west.
SURFING
From the big wave thrills at Mullaghmore and Strandhill’s consistent breaks, to the family- friendly swell at Enniscrone, no trip to Sligo is complete without a go on a surfboard. Surf schools can help newbies paddle out with confidence, while pros can hunt for secret spots.
SLIGO FOOD TRAIL
Delighting palates and surpassing expectations is what the Sligo Food Trail is famous for. Map your own route with the help of experts to choose the cuisine that you love best and enjoy fresh, nourishing local food that will make you think you’ve arrived in foodie heaven.
CONEY ISLAND
The original and best, Sligo’s Coney Island is the largest and most popular of the islands in Sligo Bay. Boasting
400 acres of beaches and green fields crisscrossed by old stone walls and populated by an abundance of rabbits, it’s a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
SLIGO ABBEY
Looking for something to do in Sligo this weekend? The medieval Dominican abbey in Sligo Town offers a peek into an intriguing past, with artefacts, lore and a rich history dating back to 1252. It’s also one of the best places to see Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculptures.
SLIGO TOWN
Discover Yeats county from the ideal base in Sligo Town, second only to Galway in size and boasting a compelling blend of past and present - from Hargadon Bros, the Michelin Guide-listed pub and eatery; to the stone bridges linking both sides of the River Garavogue.
GRAVE OF WB YEATS
Spend some time in the northeast of the county in pretty Drumcliffe, where you’ll find the grave of beloved Irish poet and Nobel Prize-winner WB Yeats. Tucked away in a churchyard, it’s a serene spot and the nearby round tower, scripture cross, church and gift shop are must-sees.
CARROWKEEL
The Neolithic cemetery complex at Carrowkeel is one of the finest examples of a passage tomb in Ireland, consisting of 14 cairns dotted across the beautiful hills of the Bricklieve mountain range in the south of County Sligo, near the County Roscommon border.
BEN BULBEN
In the northwest of the county, the distinctive 320 millionyear-old rock formation known as Ben Bulben cuts a striking figure above the landscape near Cashelgarran. Part of the Dartry mountains, it’s a popular destination.
While the Sligo Tourism Office do not recommend climbing Benbulben, there is a looped walk around Benbulben and Sligo Tourism Office can give you details of this.