Things to do in Sligo

Explore exciting things to do in Sligo, from scenic landscapes to vibrant cultural activities and local attractions.

Things to do in Sligo

Things to Do in Sligo: A Comprehensive Guide to the Northwest’s Hidden Gem

Introduction for Things to do in Sligo

Settled along Ireland’s rough northwest coast, Things to do in Sligo is a district that charms guests with its dazzling regular magnificence, rich social legacy, and warm cordiality. From the emotional pinnacles of the Dartry Mountains to the desolate sea shores of the Wild Atlantic Way, Sligo offers a different cluster of encounters for explorers, everything being equal. In this complete manual for “What should be done in Sligo,” we’ll investigate the horde attractions that make this district a must-visit objective. Whether you’re attracted to outside undertakings, authentic locales, abstract associations, or culinary enjoyments, Sligo brings something to the table for each guest. Go along with us as we dig into the secret fortunes and notable milestones that make Sligo a genuinely remarkable Irish objective.

Explore Things to do in Sligo’s Natural Wonders

Climb Benbulben Mountain

Benbulben, frequently alluded to as Ireland’s “Table Mountain,” is a famous milestone that rules the Things to do in Sligo horizon. This unmistakable level beat mountain offers climbers a difficult yet remunerating experience.

Hiking Routes

There are several routes to the summit, with the most popular being the Gortarowey Trail:

1. Gortarowey Trail: A 5.5 km loop trail suitable for moderate hikers.
2. Luke’s Bridge Route: A more challenging ascent for experienced climbers.
3. Kings Mountain Path: Offers stunning views of Donegal Bay and the surrounding landscape.

Safety Tips

• Check weather conditions before setting out
• Wear appropriate hiking boots and clothing
• Bring plenty of water and snacks
• Inform someone of your hiking plans

Explore Glencar Waterfall

Simply a short drive from Things to do in Sligo town, Glencar Cascade is a 50-foot overflow settled in a rich, lush glen. This pleasant spot enlivened W.B. Yeats’ sonnet “The Taken Kid.”

Visitor Information

• Open year-round
• Free parking available
• On-site tea room and picnic areas
• Wheelchair accessible viewing area

Stroll Along Strandhill Beach

Strandhill is a lively ocean side town known for its extensive ocean side and elite riding conditions. Regardless of whether you’re not a surfer, the ocean side offers stunning perspectives and empowering strolls.

Activities at Strandhill

1. Surfing lessons for beginners
2. Beach yoga classes
3. Seaweed baths for relaxation
4. Coastal walks with stunning views of Knocknarea Mountain

Dive into Things to do in Sligo’s Rich History

Visit Sligo Abbey

Established in the thirteenth 100 years, Sligo Nunnery is a very much protected Dominican friary that offers guests a brief look into middle age Irish history.

Key Features

• Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculptures
• 15th-century high altar
• Intricate stone carvings
• Visitor center with informative exhibits

Explore Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

Quite possibly of Ireland’s most critical ancient site, Carrowmore is home to more than 60 burial places tracing all the way back to the Neolithic time frame.

Highlights

• Listoghil: The central and largest monument
• Guided tours available
• On-site exhibition center
• Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape

Visit Parke’s Castle

This reestablished seventeenth century estate palace sits on the shores of Lough Gill, offering guests an interesting understanding into Ireland’s violent history.

What to See

• Restored rooms and furnishings
• Beautiful lakeside setting
• Guided tours available
• Traditional craft demonstrations (seasonal)

Immerse Yourself in Things to do in Sligo’s Literary Heritage

Follow the Yeats Trail

W.B. Yeats, perhaps of Ireland’s most celebrated writer, had profound associations with Sligo. Emulate his example and find the scenes that enlivened his work.

Key Stops on the Yeats Trail

1. Drumcliffe Churchyard: Yeats’ last resting place Lissadell House: Youth home of Constance Markievicz, a companion of Yeats Sligo District Exhibition hall: Houses a huge Yeats assortment The Lake Isle of Innisfree: The island that roused quite possibly of Yeats’ most popular sonnet

Visit the Yeats Building

Situated in the core of Sligo town, the Yeats Building is a social place committed to the life and works of W.B. Yeats and his craftsman sibling, Jack B. Yeats.

What to Expect

• Permanent exhibition on the Yeats family
• Art gallery featuring contemporary Irish artists
• Regular literary events and workshops
• Café and bookshop

Enjoy Things to do in Sligo’s Vibrant Arts Scene

Explore The Model

The Model is Sligo’s contemporary arts center, housing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art.

Highlights

• Permanent collection featuring works by Jack B. Yeats
• Rotating exhibitions of international contemporary art
• Cinema showcasing independent and art house films
• Regular workshops and events for all ages

Attend a Performance at the Hawk’s Well Theatre

This private setting has a great many exhibitions, from customary Irish music to contemporary theater.

What’s On

• Local and touring theater productions
• Traditional Irish music sessions
• Stand-up comedy nights
• Children’s theater workshops

Experience Things to do in Sligo’s Outdoor Adventures

Go Surfing in Mullaghmore

Mullaghmore is prestigious for its huge wave riding, drawing in proficient surfers from around the world.

Surfing Information

• Best time for big waves: October to March
• Surfing schools available for beginners
• Equipment rental shops in the area
• Beautiful coastal scenery for non-surfers

Kayak on Lough Gill

Explore the tranquil waters of Lough Gill, the lake that inspired Yeats’ “The Lake Isle of Innisfree.”

Kayaking Options

1. Guided tours available
2. Half-day and full-day trips
3. Stops at historic islands and lakeside ruins
4. Suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers

Cycle the Things to do in Sligo Way

The Sligo Way is a 74 km trail that takes cyclists through some of the county’s most beautiful landscapes.

Route Highlights

• Passes through the Ox Mountains
• Views of Lough Talt and the Atlantic Ocean
• Crosses the Garavogue River
• Ends at the coastal village of Dromahair

Indulge in Things to do in Sligo’s Culinary Delights

Visit Sligo Farmers Market

Held each Saturday in the core of Sligo town, this market features the best of nearby produce and distinctive food varieties.

What to Expect

• Fresh organic fruits and vegetables
• Local cheeses and charcuterie
• Artisanal bread and pastries
• Homemade jams and preserves

Enjoy Seafood at Eithna’s by the Sea

Located in the fishing village of Mullaghmore, Eithna’s is renowned for its fresh, locally sourced seafood.

Menu Highlights

• Mullaghmore lobster Newly got fish of the day Natively constructed fish chowder Kelp injected dishes

Take a Food Tour

Find Sligo’s culinary scene with a directed food visit, testing nearby claims to fame and meeting high quality makers.

Tour Features

• Visits to local food producers
• Tastings at artisanal shops and cafes
• Learn about Sligo’s food history and traditions
• Optional cooking classes available

Discover Things to do in Sligo’s Traditional Music Scene

Attend a Session at Shoot the Crows

This customary Irish bar is known for its exuberant music meetings, highlighting nearby and visiting performers.

Session Information

• Live music most nights of the week
• Traditional instruments including fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns
• Welcoming atmosphere for visitors
• Wide selection of Irish whiskeys and craft beers

Visit the Coleman Traditional Irish Music Centre

Dedicated to the memory of fiddler Michael Coleman, this center celebrates Things to do in Sligo’s rich musical heritage.

What to See and Do

• Interactive exhibits on traditional Irish music
• Regular concerts and workshops
• Archives of historical recordings
• Traditional instrument displays

Relax and Rejuvenate in Things to do in Sligo

Try a Seaweed Bath at Voya Seaweed Baths

Experience the recuperating properties of ocean growth in a customary Irish kelp shower.

Bath Experience

• Private bath rooms with ocean views
• Organic seaweed harvested from the Atlantic
• Steam room and shower facilities
• Optional massage treatments available

Practice Yoga at the Strandhill Yoga Shala

Experience the recuperating properties of ocean growth in a customary Irish kelp shower.

Class Options

• Daily drop-in classes
• Weekend workshops and retreats
• Meditation sessions
• Beach yoga (weather permitting)

Shop for Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Browse the Crafts at The Cat and The Moon

This charming shop in Sligo town showcases the work of local artisans and craftspeople.

What to Find

• Handmade jewelry
• Pottery and ceramics
• Textiles and knitwear
• Local art and prints

Visit Drumcliffe Tea House and Craft Shop

Situated close to Yeats’ grave, this shop offers a scope of Irish specialties and keepsakes.

Shop Highlights

• Yeats-inspired gifts and books
• Local crafts and artwork
• Traditional Irish foods and treats
• On-site tea room for refreshments

Attend Things to do in Sligo’s Festivals and Events

Sligo Live

This annual music festival takes place in October, featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary music.

Festival Highlights

• International and local musicians
• Concerts in various venues around Sligo
• Traditional music sessions in local pubs
• Music workshops and masterclasses

Yeats International Summer School

Held yearly in July, this occasion commends the life and works of W.B. Yeats.

Program Features

• Lectures by renowned Yeats scholars
• Poetry readings and performances
• Guided tours of Yeats Country
• Social events and networking opportunities

Take a Day Trip from Things to do in Sligo

Visit Lissadell House

This brilliant ranch style home was once home to Constance Markievicz, a vital figure in Irish history.

What to See

• Restored period rooms
• Extensive gardens and woodlands
• Exhibition on the Gore-Booth family
• Tea room serving homemade treats

Explore Inishmurray Island

This uninhabited island off the coast of Sligo is home to a well-preserved 6th-century monastic site.

Visitor Information

• Boat trips available from Mullaghmore (weather dependent)
• Guided tours of the monastic ruins
• Opportunity to see diverse birdlife
• Bring packed lunch and water (no facilities on the island)

Things to do in Sligo by the Numbers

To give you a better idea of what Sligo has to offer, here’s a table with some key statistics:

Attraction/Activity	Number	Additional Information
Megalithic Tombs	60+	Located at Carrowmore
Beaches	13	Including Blue Flag beaches
Mountains	3	Benbulben, Knocknarea, and Truskmore
Lakes	20+	Including Lough Gill and Glencar Lake
Annual Visitors	500,000+	As of 2023
Yeats-related Sites	15+	Including grave site and childhood homes
Traditional Music Venues	20+	Pubs and dedicated music centers
Art Galleries	5	Including The Model and Hyde Bridge Gallery
Hiking Trails	100+ km	Including the Sligo Way and Benbulben Forest Walk
Annual Festivals	10+	Including Sligo Live and Tread Softly Festival

Frequently Asked Questions for Things to do in Sligo

H4: What’s the best time of year to visit Sligo?

While Sligo can be delighted in all year, the best opportunity to visit is for the most part among May and September when the weather conditions is milder and days are longer. Be that as it may, on the off chance that you’re keen on large wave riding, cold weather months offer the most noteworthy enlarges.

H4: How many days should I spend in Things to do in Sligo?

To completely encounter Sligo’s different attractions, we suggest spending something like 3-5 days in the region. This will permit you to investigate the fundamental sights, take part in open air exercises, and absorb the neighborhood culture.

H4: Is Sligo suitable for family vacations?

Absolutely! Sligo offers various family-accommodating exercises, including ocean side excursions, simple climbs, authentic locales with intelligent components, and social encounters appropriate for all ages.

H4: What’s the best way to get around Sligo?

While having a vehicle offers the most adaptability, particularly for investigating country regions, Sligo town itself is walkable. There are additionally nearby transport administrations and bicycle rentals accessible. For certain attractions, directed visits can be a helpful choice.

H4: Are there any famous movies or TV shows filmed in Sligo?

Indeed, Sligo’s shocking scenes have drawn in movie producers. Portions of the 2022 film “The Banshees of Inisherin” were recorded in Sligo, displaying its tough shore. The district has likewise been highlighted in different narratives about W.B. Yeats and Irish culture.

Conclusion for Things to do in Sligo

Sligo, with its stunning scenes, rich social legacy, and warm friendliness, offers a really remarkable Irish experience. From scaling the levels of Benbulben to investigating old gigantic burial places, from riding elite waves to submerging yourself in the verse of W.B. Yeats, this region gives a different cluster of exercises to suit each interest and age bunch. Whether you’re looking for experience, unwinding, social enhancement, or culinary enjoyments, Sligo conveys in spades. As you plan your excursion to this enrapturing corner of Ireland, recollect that the genuine enchantment of Sligo lies in its attractions, however in the tales, customs, and well disposed faces you’ll experience en route. So gather your sacks, bring your feeling of miracle, and plan to fall head over heels for Sligo – where history, nature, and Irish appeal meet to make recollections that will endure forever.

For more information on planning your trip to Sligo, visit the official Sligo Tourism website: https://sligotourism.ie/