County Sligo is where W.B. Yeats spent most of his childhood. One of the greatest poets of the 20th century, Yeats’ love and admiration for this beautiful place came through in his writings. Over the past couple of years, more and more travelers have become aware of all the beautiful places.
If your thrill-seeking heart yearns for something even more unique and beautiful, I would recommend that you check out the amazing things to do in Sligo Ireland
Despite the considerable boost in admirers and tourists, County Sligo or Yeats County continues to remain largely underrated. So if you are feeling a bit lost about things to do or places to visit in Sligo, it’s completely understandable.
Read on to quell all your doubts and know more about this remarkable place to visit in Sligo!
Hotels in Sligo
Sligo Southern Hotel
They have all the luxurious facilities at their hotel. The staff is very cooperative and helpful. They have swimming pools and steam baths.
The food there is also lovely, and the best part is that it is just a 10-minute walk away from the town.
Surf N Stay Strandhill Accommodation
It is situated between the slopes of Knocknarea Hills and offers some unique activities like golf and hiking. They also offer the facilities of water sports and authentic Irish pubs.
They have both dorm-style rooms and private rooms and thus are flexible with their rates. You can have some breathtaking views from here; I would recommend staying at this place for a day or two.
Top Things To Do In Sligo
Climb the Gleniff Horseshoe for an amazing view
A narrow road between majestic cliffs was formed a thousand years ago. I bet you’ll never come across a site like this. It is filled with lush greens, mountains, and waterfalls.
Just follow the highway route and enjoy the ride. It is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Sligo.
Head on to my blog for a detailed article about the place
Follow the trail to see the Mullaghmore Head
Mullaghmore Head is a wonderful place to explore and one of the finest places to visit in Sligo. It is said to be having the highest waves in Europe and is thus known for surfing which is some of the best things to do in Sligo.
You can also walk around the site if you’re not interested in any water activities and take amazing aesthetic travel pictures.
Mullaghmore Village is also known for fishing, so you can try your hand at catching a big fat meal for yourself.
Visit The Beautiful Coney Island
The American Coney Island derives its name from the serene Coney Island at County Sligo, Ireland. The name of the island, in Gaelic, means “the island of rabbits.”
It is said that the Captain of a merchant ship, which used to travel between New York and Sligo, named New York Island after Coney Island because of the large number of rabbits at the former place.
Seeing the sunset from the bay’s westernmost point is a magical experience and one of the must things to do in Sligo. There’s also a pub, Mc Gowan; you can enjoy a drink after your walk between the stunning waves and ruined forts.
Take a stroll on the beautiful-looking beach and delve into some local cuisines at Coney Island. Thanks to the stunning setting and the friendly locals, you can expect to have a great time on this island.
Hike to the famous Knocknarea- “Hill Of Kings”
A myth that exists about this place is that ancient kings of this province used to be crowned atop this mountain. Knocknarea, in Gaelic, means “Hill of kings.”
The mound of stones at the top of the mountain is known as “Queen Maeve’s grave,” owing to an old legend that the body of the famous Queen Maeve of Connacht is buried underneath these massive stones.
It is located west of Sligo Town; you won’t regret climbing up this mountain. The surrounding views are truly spectacular and will leave you absolutely floored.
A flat-topped mountain near Sligo, the magnificent Ben Bulben served as an inspiration behind “Under Ben Bulben,” a famous poem composed by W.B. Yeats.
This jaw-droppingly beautiful mountain has its fair share of legends and myths. It is said that Ben Bulben is the only place in Ireland wherein mortals can see fairies.
It is only 15 minutes from Sligo, and it’s the only location in Ireland where you can see the tea-leaved willow, an Arctic plant commonly found in Iceland.
As you bask in the haunting setting, you might even find yourself being transported into an alternate universe of sorts.
If you are in Sligo, you should definitely take some time out to visit this beautiful mountain.
Explore the history of Carrowmore
If you like history, then you’re going to love this place.
Ireland is home to Carrowmore, the oldest and largest megalithic complex in the country. When it comes to beauty and grandeur, Carrowmore is unrivaled.
Neolithic art was discovered at Carrowmore, and it’s also the only tomb where bodies were interred rather than cremated. You can take the guided tours here, to know about the history of the place in detail.
Ireland is very famous for its majestic monuments, and Carrowmore will definitely take your breath away. If you are on the lookout for things to do at Sligo, make sure to visit this iconic place.
Have A Look At This Gorgeous Lake- Lough Gill
An 8 km long limestone lake, Lough Gill is home to a bunch of islands. The Innisfree Island is the most famous and served as the setting for Yeats’s “Lake Isle of Innisfree.”
This lake is surrounded by magnificent trees and shrubs all around. A protected site, this lake is also home to some unique species.
Make sure to visit Lough Gill on your trip to Sligo. You will not regret it and indeed have an amazing time with your friends or family. It is one of my favorite things to do in Sligo.
Dwell Into The Irish History At Sligo Abbey
“Where friars’ prayers echo among the ruins” – The Sligo Abbey has managed to stand the test of time, and thousands of people visit this tourist attraction in Sligo every year to see the stunning carvings, the Gothic and Renaissance sculptures, and the high altar, among others, that this place has to offer.
If you’re someone who would like to know more about Irish history, this is a must-visit place for you among this list of things to do in Sligo.
Check out the opening times of Sligo Abbey and plan your visit accordingly.
Click Amazing Instagrammable Pictures At Rosses Point
W.B. Yeats, a nobel prize-winning poet and the most famous person to have come out of Count Sligo, believed that Rosses Point was home to many ghosts. Several other legends will get you hooked on the history of this place.
The main beach at Rosses Point, an arcing bay sheltered from the open ocean by the peninsular at Ballymulderry to the west, is awarded the Blue Flag every year. This is one of the most beautiful things to do in Sligo.
The village is not only picture-perfect, but it is also really simple looking. It is often referred to as the “West’s best-kept secret,” and for a good reason. As we know, Irish hospitality and culture are world-famous. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to this beautiful village if you’re looking for a great time in County Sligo.
Sink in the artistic beauty of Drumcliffe Parish Church
The Drumcliffe Parish Church is nestled in the rural setting of County Sligo. The rich history and culture of this church make it a noteworthy tourist spot.
A richly carved Irish High Cross from the 800s and a Columbian monastery built in the 6th century is just a few steps from the church. A Celtic round tower from the 900s or 1000s is another historic monument here. This church consists of people from all walks of life.
I’d recommend paying a visit to the Drumcliffe Parish Church if you are looking for a place to visit in County Sligo to spend some calming time.
Look at the noteworthy art in The Model
This is one of the unique things to do in Sligo, The Model houses noteworthy exhibitions by famous artists from time to time.
If not the art festivals, you can still look at the art reserves here.
The model was built in 1862 and has been subjected to redevelopments over the years.
This stunning location not only offers a great view into Sligo County and Town but also offers facilities such as a restaurant, coffee shop, among others, that you can unwind at.
Explore the royalty of Parke’s Castle
Some studies have revealed that Ireland is home to around 30,000 castles. Located on the northern shores of Lough Gill, Parke’s Castle is of the finest things to do in Sligo and is as striking as it can get.
There are hour-long guided tours that explain the techniques of construction of this building from the 17th century.
Following tragedies and unforeseen accidents, Parke’s castle has been newly refurbished to attract more tourists. You can visit this place with your family and make some fantastic memories.
Visit the historically significant Lissadell House and Gardens
Home to Irish revolutionary, Constance Gore-Booth, and poet and suffragist, Eva Gore-Booth, the Lissadell House and Gardens is a country house that will absolutely floor you. This house also served as the holiday retreat for W.B. Yeats.
If you are in County Sligo, visit the Lissadell House and Gardens and delve into the large collection of paintings and literature that this beautiful abode has to offer.
If you have kids with you, then do take them, as they will love this place.
FAQs
How To Travel Around Sligo?
Car is the best option for traveling in Sligo as you can stop wherever you want and plan your itinerary in your own way.
Another option is the local buses, you will have several bus stops in the county, for more information and timings of the bus click here.
Best Time To Visit Sligo?
April to October is the best time to visit Sligo as this is the time when you will be able to enjoy all the things to do in Sligo without worrying much about the weather conditions.
As the weather is delightful around this time, you will also have many more tourists with you, making your travel a bit expensive.
Conclusion
County Sligo in Ireland may not be as famous as other cities in Ireland, but it’s definitely worth a visit. This place is best known for serving as the setting wherein W.B. Yeats spent his childhood years. A lot of famous locations of County Sligo have been immortalized in the compositions of William Butler Yeats.
Dublin is also a beautiful place near Sligo, so if you plan to extend your trip, you can check out the things to do in Dublin.
Let me know in the comment section below about your fun travel experiences!
Want to Visit these places! Its so Attractive and Informative. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks, Hasti.