Is Sligo Ireland Worth Visiting?

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Is Sligo Ireland Worth Visiting?

Is Sligo Ireland Worth Visiting? -Sligo is worth visiting! County Sligo is in northwestern Ireland and It’s known for the legacy of local poet WB Yeats, whose grave is in a cemetery in Drumcliff, near flat-topped Benbulben Mountain. In Lough Gill, tiny Innisfree Island inspired one of WB Yeats poems.

The county offers a stunning landscape of lakes, mountains, and rich green valleys dotted with ancient castles and monuments.

In Sligo town, you can enjoy its compact city center packed with everything from independent galleries to popular pubs. Take a trip down the Atlantic coast to uncover the wild beauty of The Strandhill Beach for some surfing or kite boarding.

The Knocknarea Mountain, Sligo is a must-see attraction. The mountain has ancient Neolithic cairns and crosses, as well as an Iron Age fort. Other things to check out include the remains of Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, which is one of the oldest in Europe; and stunning beaches like Streedagh and Mullaghmore.

Sligo is a perfect destination for those looking to make the most of Ireland’s unique landscape, culture, and history. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained such as walking routes, water sports, surfing lessons, kayaking trips and wildlife watching. The vibrant city center with its music venues, restaurants, and galleries provide an exciting nightlife for visitors. With its captivating beauty and fascinating history, Sligo is a must visit destination in Ireland.

How do you pronounce Sligo in Irish?

In Irish, the county of Sligo is pronounced as ‘Sligeach’. The word derives from the Old Norse ‘slygr’ which means a shelly place or pool. This reflects one of Sligo’s most popular landmarks – the beautiful Lough Gill.

When spoken in Irish, the accent is usually on the first syllable. The pronunciation should be similar to ‘Slee-gach’ with a long e sound in the middle and an audible ch at the end. It can sometimes sound more like ‘Sly-Gach’ though, depending on where you are in Ireland or who you are listening to.

County Sligo

County Sligo is a county located in the northwest of Ireland. It is part of the province of Connacht and is bordered by the counties of Leitrim, Roscommon, Mayo, and Fermanagh. The county covers an area of 1,854 square kilometers (717 sq mi) and has a population estimated at 130,000.

The county town of Sligo is the largest urban area in County Sligo, with a population of approximately 20,000. The other major towns include Ballymote, Collooney, and Tubbercurry.

County Sligo is known for its natural beauty and coastal scenery. It also boasts some of the best surfing and windsurfing in Europe. There are several golf courses, beaches, forests, and archaeological sites for visitors to explore. The county is home to two national parks – the Ox Mountains National Park and the Benbulbin Nature Reserve.

The culture of County Sligo is strongly rooted in Irish traditional music and dance. Every summer, the county hosts several festivals including the Sligo Live Music Festival, Sligo Folk Park Traditional Music Festival, the Puck Fair music festival, and the Lissadell International Gathering of Irish Harpers.

The County Council rules over local affairs in County Sligo which include social services, waste management, public health and safety, and road maintenance. The council consists of eighteen members who are elected every five years.

County Sligo has a strong economy based on agriculture, tourism, electronics manufacturing, healthcare and other industries. With its beautiful scenery, rich culture and economic growth potential, County Sligo is an attractive destination for both tourists and businesses alike.

Overall, County Sligo is a wonderful place to explore and experience the unique culture and beauty of Ireland. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, strong economy and friendly people, County Sligo is an ideal destination for those looking for something special in the Emerald Isle.

Benbulben Mountain

Benbulben Mountain is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers located in County Sligo, Ireland. The mountain stands prominent at 526 meters (1,722 feet) above sea level offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Benbulben is part of the Dartry range and is made up of limestone which has been carved by the elements over millions of years. The area is rich in flora and fauna, with wildflowers blooming in the summer months and an array of wildlife including otters, badgers, stoats, foxes and hawks. Benbulben Mountain is also home to a large variety of birds such as choughs, curlews, and ravens.

The mountain is popular with local sligo and international walkers, offering a wide range of trails ranging from easy to more challenging walks. Popular routes include the Gleniff Horseshoe which takes in views of Benbulben and Duncoura Lake, and the Benbulben Loop Walk which passes by some of the most breathtaking views. Climbers and abseilers also flock to the mountain all year round, taking advantage of its diverse range of challenges.

Benbulben Mountain is a spectacular natural feature that has enchanted people for centuries. With its dramatic views, plentiful wildlife, and wide range of outdoor activities, it’s no wonder why this area continues to be so popular. From the summit, you’ll be able to experience an unforgettable panoramic vista of County Sligo. So if you’re looking for a great outdoor adventure, Benbulben Mountain is definitely worth a visit!

About Sligo Town

Sligo is the capital town in the County of Sligo known and is home to the Yeats Memorial Building, featuring an exhibition and a library. Sligo town also has a medieval abbey and the Model contemporary arts centre it is also known as the birthplace of the 90s’ boyband – Westlife and the filming location of the popular Hulu series “Normal People”. 

Sligo is a beautiful and historic city, with an abundance of natural beauty, beaches, rivers and lakes. Visitors can enjoy walking tours around the sligo town where they can learn more about its rich history before heading out to explore some of the nearby attractions such as Lough Gill, Benbulbin mountain and Glencar Waterfall. There are also many activities available such as fishing, swimming, golfing and horse riding. The vibrant nightlife offers a range of bars and restaurants for visitors to enjoy in the evenings.

Grattan Street Sligo

One of the main attractions in Sligo is Grattan Street which runs through the heart of the town. This street has been described as one of the most vibrant streets in all of Ireland with’s best shops and restaurants as well as its major banking, legal, insurance and real estate firms.

Sligo has become an increasingly popular tourist destination due to its stunning landscape, attractions and activities making it well worth visiting. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, Sligo has something for everyone.

The town of Sligo is also famous for its traditional music and culture. There are many pubs and clubs that provide live Irish music every night, and you can experience the spirit of the locals through their singing and dancing. Additionally, there are a number of festivals throughout the year, and each one turns the town into a vibrant place full of colour and excitement.

Sligo is also home to some amazing outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an adrenaline filled adventure, there are plenty of options to choose from. From summer festivals like Sea Sessions to the renowned Benbulben Challenge, Sligo offers something for everyone.

To sum it up, Sligo is a beautiful place filled with culture and activities. It’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the Irish countryside or just have a relaxing time away from it all.

Why is Sligo famous?

Sligo is a very popular tourist destination made famous because of its connection to Irish writer WB Yeats. Sligo is renowned for its seaweed baths at Enniscrone and Strandhill and made world headlines in 1979 when Lord Mounttbatten was killed by the IRA, with a bomb blowing up his boat near Classiebawn Castle.

More About WB Yeats and his connection to Sligo

WB Yeats’s works are often considered to be among the greatest of English language poems and plays, and his influence on modern literature is profound. He was a key figure in the Irish Literary Revival, a movement that sought to create a distinctive national literature while reviving ancient Gaelic traditions.

His most famous works include The Tower, The Winding Stair, and Other Poems (1928) and The Collected Works of WB Yeats, a massive collection of his poetry, plays, essays and other writings edited by Richard Ellmann in 1956.

WB Yeats was an early advocate of Irish independence and wrote extensively about the political climate of the time. His works also often focus on themes of love, death and religion. He was a member of the Order of the Golden Dawn, an occult society devoted to magical studies and rituals, from which he drew inspiration for his writing. He is also remembered for several of his quotes such as “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.”

WB Yeats won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923, and his legacy remains strong today. He is remembered as one of the most important poets of the early twentieth century and an influential figure in Irish culture and literature. In 2020, he was honoured with his own memorial statue in Dublin, Ireland, which is fitting recognition for a man who dedicated so much of his life to the exploration of Irish identity and culture. His works continue to be studied, admired and enjoyed by readers around the world.

About the Seaweed Baths In Sligo

The seaweed baths in Sligo are well-known for their therapeutic powers. The combination of naturally sourced seaweed, sea water and thermal heat used to create a relaxing atmosphere is said to be beneficial for many ailments. People visit the baths for their purported healing properties in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, rheumatic complaints and to improve skin tone.

The seaweed baths in Sligo are also believed to be beneficial for strengthening the immune system, detoxifying the body and improving blood circulation. Other benefits include relieving muscular pain, stimulating cell renewal, helping with stress and fatigue, easing respiratory conditions such as asthma, preventing wrinkles and aiding digestion.

What is the name of the mountain in Sligo?

Knocknarea Mountain (Cnoc na Rí) is situated four miles west of Sligo Town, in the area of the Strandhill Peninsula. This breathtaking mountain is 1078 feet high and it dominates the skyline of Sligo town. It is 1078 feet high. The whole area is a walker paradise and a must do for those who love outdoor activities.

Can you walk up Benbulben?

There is a 3.5 hour ( 8 km ) walking route to the distinctive plateau of Kings Mountain (462m) also known as Fionn mac Cumhaill (McCools) Table and the spectacular vertical gullies and cliffs at Benbulben Head (526m). The area is spectacular and really a paradise for anyone that enjoys walking.

Where is Mullaghmore beach?

There is a 3km white sandy beach called Mullaghmore located between Cliffoney and Grange in County Sligo. . Mullaghmore is a small fishing village and popular holiday centre. The beach is a huge favourite among local Sligo surfers.

Rosses Point Beach, Sligo

Rosses Point Beach is a picturesque beach located in County Sligo, Ireland. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to relax and have some fun, with plenty of activities on offer including swimming, surfing, kayaking, and sailing. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife such as fish, seabirds, and even seals! The beach itself is great for sunbathing, with plenty of golden sands and clear blue waters. For those looking to explore a little further, Rosses Point Beach has some stunning walking trails that provide spectacular views of the Irish Sea.

It’s also within easy reach of other attractions in the area such as Yeats Country and Lissadell House. Rosses Point Beach is an ideal spot for a day out in Ireland, with plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained throughout the summer months. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the surrounding area, or try your luck at surfing and other water sports, Rosses Point Beach has something for everyone. So come on down and enjoy a day at Rosses Point Beach! You won’t be disappointed.

Garavogue River

The Garavogue River is a river in County Sligo, Ireland. It is approximately 13.7 miles long and rises at Glenade Lough before flowing into the Atlantic Ocean near Sligo town. The river is home to salmon, trout and other species of fish, as well as an abundance of flora and fauna. Popular activities along the river include fishing, walking, cycling, and kayaking.

There are several bridges crossing the Garavogue River and numerous spots along its banks that are ideal for picnicking and taking in the beautiful Sligo scenery. The river is also popular with photographers who come to capture its stunning views of Sligo Bay. In addition, the Garavogue River is the setting for several traditional Irish folk songs, such as “My Love is Like A Red Red Rose” and “The Banks of the Garavogue”. The river’s beauty and cultural significance make it an important part of the rich heritage of Sligo.

Glencar Waterfal Sligo

Glencar Waterfall is a lovely water feature located near Sligo, Ireland. Located in the beautiful Glencar Valley, this stunning waterfall cascades down from a height of over 60 feet and is one of the most visited sites in Sligo. The falls are surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the Mountains in the background.

The water itself is crystal clear and provides a great opportunity for swimming, fishing, and even kayaking. Visitors can also take advantage of paths that lead to the top of the waterfall, offering views of the surrounding area. Glencar Waterfall is a popular destination for tourists visiting Sligo, as it’s one of the best and most rewarding hikes in the area. The hike itself is relatively short but can be strenuous depending on the time of year. No matter what season you visit, a trip to Glencar Waterfall, Sligo will surely be one to remember.

Lougoona National Park is a stunning natural park located in Sligo, Ireland. Boasting miles of unspoiled nature, Lougoona provides visitors with the opportunity to experience some of Ireland’s most remarkable scenery. The park stretches from the Atlantic Ocean to the River Erroona National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including red deer, foxes, badgers and numerous species of birds. Visitors can also spot some of Ireland’s rarest plants, such as the Sligo bog cotton. In addition to its natural beauty, Lougoona, Sligo is home to a number of historic sites, suchoona National Park is a great place to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature, while enjoying some of the best outdoor activities in Sligo.

Lough Gill, Sligo

Lough Gill is a glacial lake located in County Sligo, Ireland. It has been an area of intense scenic beauty since prehistoric times and has attracted many visitors throughout the years. The lake’s shoreline is scattered with small islands and coves that provide tranquil hideaways for leisurely kayaking or sailing trips. The sloping hills around the lake are covered in lush vegetation, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors.

The nearby town of Sligo is a great base for exploring Lough Gill and its surroundings. Visitors can take advantage of the many activities offered here including fishing, swimming, sailing, and bird watching.

There are also many walking trails around Lough Gill that provide stunning views of the lake and its islands. The nearby Benbulben mountain also provides an incredible vantage point to view the lake from above. Lough Gill is a great destination for nature lovers, outdoors enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an escape into peaceful natural beauty of Sligo.

Markree Castle

Markree Castle is a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle located in County Sligo, Ireland. The castle was built in 1802 by Sir William Cooper and has been the family home of the Cooper Baronets for generations. It is currently owned by Henry St John Petre, 11th Baronet of Markree.

The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Collooney and provides spectacular views of the surrounding Sligo landscape. The castle features a wide variety of architectural styles, including Scottish Baronial, Tudor Revival, and Italianate. It is also known for its impressive restored gardens, which contain several rare species of trees and shrubs.

Markree Castle is open for guided tours throughout the year, offering visitors the chance to explore its halls and grounds. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as archery, falconry displays, and horseback riding. The castle is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including an annual medieval festival in August.

The castle is thought to be haunted, and visitors have reported seeing an apparition of a young girl in white. Whether these stories are true or not, Markree Castle is certainly an interesting and atmospheric place to explore. Its beauty and history make it one of the top attractions in County Sligo.

Golf in Sligo

Sligo boasts several excellent golf courses, including Strandhill Golf Club and Rosses Point Golf Course which have both hosted international tournaments.

Lightship Open is an annual event held at Strandhill that attracts some of the top professional golfers from around the world.

Check out our Sligo golf page for more information on golf in the area.

If you’re a fan of the game, be sure to add a round or two of golf to your itinerary.

The Wild Atlantic Way

A road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way is an amazing way to explore Ireland’s spectacular coastline, taking in some of its most stunning sights from remote peninsulas and rolling cliffs to lush green fields, vibrant coastal towns and more. Whether you choose to drive the entire route or just take in some highlights, this journey will be unforgettable.

Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way will allow you to see some of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry and Dunluce Castle. As you explore these breathtaking places, be sure to take a break in one of the quaint villages that line the route—many with welcoming pubs stepping aboard the Wild Atlantic Way will also give you a chance to taste some of Ireland’s unique delicacies. From Irish whiskey and Guinness stout to seafood chowder, traditional soda bread and more, there are plenty of delicious treats to sample along the way.

You can also discover a wealth of culture and history as you explore the Wildpping aboard the Wild Atlantic Way is a great way to get off the beaten track and immerse yourself in the culture of Ireland. From historic sites such as the Blarney Stone and Croagh Patrick to ancient Irish music and dance performances, there is plenty to see and do along this remarkable route.

No matter your pace or interest aboard the Wild Atlantic Way is an experience you won’t soon forget. With stunning scenery, iconic landmarks and plenty of culture and history to explore, this road trip will be one you’ll remember for years to come, especially when you visit the beautlful coastline of Sligo. So why not take a chance, hit the open road and explore one of Ireland’s most remarkable routes? You won’t regret it

Culture and Music in Sligo

Sligo has a vibrant culture and music scene. Home to a diverse range of traditional Irish music styles, Sligo is well known for its fiddle players and for having produced some of the most renowned musicians in Irish history. The Sligo Fiddler’s Convention held annually at Ballinafad draws people from all over the county to celebrate their music, and is considered a showcase for the local talent.

The county also has many festivals throughout the year that highlight traditional Irish music, such as Sligo Live Music Festival and Fleadh Ceoil na hÉireann. These events provide an opportunity for both locals and tourists to experience some of Ireland’s happening music genres.

Visit Thomas Connolly, Sligo’s oldest traditional pub

For those looking to experience a piece of Sligo’s rich history, the Thomas Connolly pub is a must-see destination. Established in 1820, this traditional Irish pub has been a constant feature of the Sligo landscape for over two centuries. The interior features exposed brick walls and vintage furniture that provide an authentic atmosphere and a reminder of times past.

The bar serves up a range of traditional Irish dishes and the atmosphere is always warm and hospitable. During live music nights, the pub comes alive with local musicians performing lively traditional Irish tunes to the delight of customers. The Thomas Connolly pub also hosts occasional events such as comedy shows, quizzes, board game nights popular.

Thomas Connolly Sligo’s oldest traditional Irish pub.

Where To Eat In Sligo?

To make your visit to Sligo even more enjoyable, why not explore the culinary delights available in this vibrant city? With a number of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs to choose from, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

If you’re looking for traditional Irish cuisine then the popular O’Connells Restaurant & Bar offers some delicious dishes. Here you can enjoy juicy steaks, succulent seafood and delectable desserts.

For something a little different, The Model Cafe is the perfect spot for lunch. Serving up creative dishes with a contemporary twist, this restaurant has won multiple awards for its tasty offerings.

If you’re looking for elegant dining then La Bella Vita is the place to go. This sophisticated Italian eatery serves up delicious pasta and pizza dishes in a beautiful setting.

Or if you’re looking for something more relaxed, why not try out The Dock Cafe in Sligo? This informal cafe serves up tasty burgers, sandwiches and salads with an unbeatable view of the river.

No matter what type of food you’re after, Sligo is sure to have something to satisfy your taste buds. So make sure you take some time out from exploring the city and sample the wonderful culinary offerings available here!

Anthony Gray Chef Sligo

Well, if you’re looking for an exciting culinary experience and want to find a Michelin-starred chef in the area, then Anthony Gray is definitely worth checking out.

Anthony Gray was trained at some of the most acclaimed restaurants in Europe including The Fat Duck and Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. His restaurant can be found in the chic area of Sligo.

The menu is exquisitly crafted to feature only the freshest and highest quality ingredients available in the region, which include locally-sourced meat, fish and produce from coastal fisheries and surrounding farms. Anthony’s cooking style is a fusion of modern European cuisine with Asian influences, resulting in dishes that combine exotic flavors.

Is Sligo posh?

The answer to the question of whether Sligo is posh is subjective, as it depends on individual perspectives. In a general sense, Sligo is considered more of a rural area than an affluent one. The city of Sligo has some prestigious areas and exclusive locations, but overall the county is largely rural. It features stunning scenery with beautiful rolling hills, mountains, and long stretches of coastline. The city center has a mix of popular bars and restaurants as well as some trendy shops and boutiques.

The cost of living in Sligo is relatively low compared to other parts of the country, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable lifestyle. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the region such as fishing, golfing, and hillwalking. Additionally, there are several fascinating historical sites including Cairns Hill Tower House and Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

In conclusion, Sligo may not be seen as a particularly ‘posh’ area compared to other cities in Ireland, but it is a beautiful and welcoming place that has something to offer everyone. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, outdoor activities and attractions, as well as the relaxed atmosphere. The cost of living is also attractive for those on a budget who want to enjoy all the area has to offer.

Therefore, whether Sligo is considered posh or not is ultimately up to the individual and their own perspective. However, it does offer a unique way of life that allows visitors to explore its natural beauty, historical sites, and lively culture.

How long is the train journey from Dublin to Sligo?

There are 6 daily departures from Dublin (Connolly station ) to Sligo. The journey will take 3 hours 10 minutes, 

How much is a bus from Dublin to Sligo?

The best way to get from Dublin to Sligo is to train which as mentioned above, takes 3h 10m and costs €17 – €25. Alternatively, you can bus, which costs €18 – €26 and takes 3h 40m.

Which airport is closest to Sligo?

The nearest airport to Sligo is Knock (NOC) Airport which is 45.4 km away. Knock airport has flights to Edinburgh, Bristol, London, Birmingham, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, and Manchester within the UK. European destinations include Milan, Paris, Gran Canaria, Barcelona, Dusseldorf, Faro, Lanzarote, Alicante, and Tenerife.

Other nearby airports include Belfast (Aldergrove) (BFS) (151.9 km), Belfast City (BHD) (172.4 km), Dublin (DUB) (173.5 km) and Shannon (SNN) (177.9 km).

Ready for that trip to Ireland? Start planning here!

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