Things to Do in Sligo: A Local’s Guide to the Wild Atlantic Way
County Sligo is one of Ireland’s most magical destinations, where rugged coastlines meet ancient history and the spirit of Yeats lingers in the air. As someone who’s explored every corner of this Wild Atlantic Way gem, I’ve put together a guide to 38 unmissable things to do in Sligo—from surfing at Strandhill and hiking the iconic Benbulben, to discovering hidden beaches, megalithic tombs, and charming local pubs.
Whether you’re here for adventure, culture, or simply to soak in breathtaking scenery, this local’s guide will help you experience Sligo like someone who truly knows it. Living near Donegal Town I make the very short trip to Sligo almost every week and it is one of my favourite places to visit. Sligo is the most under-visited and underrated Irish counties so I urge everyone to add it to your bucket list it is truly an Irish hidden gem.
- Things to Do in Sligo: A Local’s Guide to the Wild Atlantic Way
Top 10 Highlights in Sligo
Map of Attractions to see in Sligo
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Benbulben Mountain Hike — Ireland’s “Table Mountain” (1 hr from Sligo town).
Mullaghmore Head — dramatic coastal drive + world-class surf swells.
Yeats’ Grave at Drumcliffe — final resting place of Ireland’s Nobel poet.
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery — ancient tombs, 5000 years old.
Strandhill Beach — surfers’ paradise + seaweed baths.
Glencar Waterfall — inspiration for Yeats’s poetry.
Parke’s Castle — restored 17th-century plantation castle on Lough Gill.
Inishmurray Island (by boat) — monastic ruins & rich wildlife.
Knocknarea & Queen Maeve’s Cairn — iconic hilltop hike with panoramic views.
Sligo Town Riverside Walk — pubs, live music, and riverside dining.
Top things to do in Sligo – Sights & Landmarks
Benbulben Mountain: This iconic flat-topped limestone table mountain dominates the Sligo skyline and offers a range of hiking trails for various experience levels, all rewarding climbers with truly panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.
Knocknarea & Queen Maeve’s Cairn: The approximately 1.5-hour climb to the summit of Knocknarea is a must-do, culminating at the massive, unexcavated Neolithic cairn known as Queen Maeve’s Grave. The effort is well worth it for the stunning, uninterrupted vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and Sligo below.
Glencar Waterfall: Easily accessible and famously mentioned by W.B. Yeats, this beautiful 50-foot waterfall cascades dramatically down a rock face into a wooded valley. A dedicated car park and picnic area make it a perfect spot for a peaceful visit, with free entry for all.
Drumcliffe Churchyard & Yeats’ Grave: A major literary pilgrimage site, this peaceful churchyard is the final resting place of the poet W.B. Yeats. Visitors can see his famous headstone with the poignant epitaph for free, set against the stunning backdrop of Benbulben.
Rosses Point: A charming coastal village known for its safe, sandy beaches, excellent links golf course, and rich maritime history, including the Metal Man navigation marker. It’s a perfect spot for a seaside stroll or a round of golf.
Mullaghmore Head: This wild and exposed headland offers a spectacular coastal drive. It’s a renowned spot for watching big-wave surfers tackle monstrous Atlantic swells and for viewing the romantic silhouette of Classiebawn Castle from a distance.
Sligo Town Riverside Walk: This pleasant paved path follows the Garavogue River through the heart of the town, passing historic bridges, traditional pubs, and the ruins of Sligo Abbey, which can be entered for an admission fee of €5.
Inishmurray Island (boat only): Accessible only by arranged boat trip from Mullaghmore or Rosses Point, this uninhabited island holds one of Ireland’s most complete and remote early Christian monastic sites, offering a truly unique historical adventure.
Classiebawn Castle (viewpoint only): This striking Victorian castle, once a holiday home of Lord Mountbatten, is privately owned and not open to the public. However, its dramatic profile can be easily admired from various viewpoints along the Mullaghmore headland loop.
Hazelwood Forest & Sculpture Trail: Located on a scenic peninsula beside Lough Gill, this network of trails winds through mixed woodland and features a series of intriguing contemporary sculptures integrated into the natural landscape, all with free entry.
Surfing & Beaches (10 Best Spots)
Sligo is famed for surf — Mullaghmore has some of Europe’s biggest waves, while Strandhill is ideal for all levels.
Strandhill Beach: A renowned surf destination with consistent Atlantic waves, making it the perfect place to take a lesson from one of the local surf schools. Afterward, you can relax and rejuvenate at the famous Voya Seaweed Baths, a unique local experience.
Mullaghmore: Home to some of the biggest and most dangerous waves on the planet, this is strictly for expert-level big-wave surfers. For everyone else, it’s a spectacular location to safely watch these athletes take on the awe-inspiring power of the Atlantic from the headland.
Enniscrone Beach: A magnificent, family-friendly 5km stretch of golden sand, ideal for long walks, swimming, golf links and beach games. For those looking to catch some waves, surfboards and wetsuits are readily available for hire from local shops in the town.
Streedagh Beach: This long, beautiful sandy beach is steeped in history as the site of the wreck of three ships from the Spanish Armada in 1588. It’s a fantastic spot for a bracing walk while contemplating its dramatic past
Rosses Point Beach: A sheltered, Blue Flag awarded beach, ensuring high water quality and excellent facilities. It’s a favourite for safe swimming, sailing, and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding bay and mountains.
Dunmoran Strand: A quieter and often less crowded alternative to its neighbour Strandhill, this sandy beach is popular with local families for swimming and surfing in a more relaxed setting.
Easkey Beach: Distinguished by its iconic reef break and right-hand point wave, Easkey is a world-class destination that attracts experienced and advanced surfers from across the globe.
Aughris Head & Beach Bar: A picturesque headland with a small, rocky beach offering good surf. Its biggest draw is the authentic, traditional Beach Bar perched right above the shore, perfect for a post-surf or post-walk pint.
Deadman’s Point: A small, sheltered cove located near Strandhill, offering some protection from the wind. It’s a great spot for a swim or a paddle when the conditions on the main beach are too rough. This is where you will find the stunning “Waiting on the Shore Statue” the statue pays tribute to the seafaring men of the west coast of Ireland and the women who waited at home for their return.
Trá Bui (Yellow Strand): A more remote and often deserted golden-sand beach, offering a true sense of escape. It’s known for its powerful swells and strong currents, so caution is advised for swimming.
History & Heritage (10 Key Sites)
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery: Explore the oldest and one of the largest collections of megalithic tombs in Ireland, with monuments dating back over 5,000 years. Managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), entry is €5 for an insightful guided tour of this prehistoric landscape.
Carrowkeel Passage Tombs: For a more adventurous historical experience, take a remote hike up the Bricklieve Mountains to this spectacular cluster of Neolithic passage tombs. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking views and a profound sense of connection to the ancient past.
Parke’s Castle: This beautifully restored 17th-century plantation castle sits picturesquely on the shores of Lough Gill. A Heritage Ireland site, for a €5 entry fee you can explore its fortified walls and learn about its turbulent history.
Sligo Abbey: Located in the heart of Sligo Town, these atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century Dominican friary feature a unique sculpted altar and an intact vaulted cloister. Entry is €5 to explore this important medieval site.
Inishmurray Monastic Site: This early Christian monastery, founded in the 6th century, is one of Ireland’s most complete and isolated, situated on an island off the Sligo coast. Its impressive stone enclosures and beehive huts are accessible by arranged boat tour.
Ballinafad Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking Lough Arrow, these striking ruins of a Jacobean fortress from the Plantation era are freely accessible to the public, offering a great view with no entry fee.
Knocknashee (Hill of the Fairies): This large flat-topped limestone hill is a significant archaeological site, featuring the remains of a massive Bronze Age hillfort. The easy walk to the summit offers panoramic views of south Sligo.
Drumcliffe Round Tower: See the unique and rare remains of a medieval round tower, across the road from Yeat’s grave.
Lissadell House: This magnificent neoclassical 19th-century estate is famously linked to the Gore-Booth family, particularly Constance Markievicz, a key figure in Ireland’s revolutionary history. Check their website for current tour info and pricing.
Famine Memorials (Sligo Quay): A series of poignant bronze sculptures on Sligo’s quayside poignantly commemorate the Great Famine, marking the point from which thousands of emigrants departed Ireland for a new life.
Sligo Folk Park – (just outside Sligo Town) the Sligo Folk Park is conveniently located on the main N16 road to Manorhamilton in Riverstown. Adult tickets typically around €10,You can explore meticulously recreated thatched cottages, a traditional farmstead, and period exhibits that tell the story of rural life in the region
Nature & Outdoors (10 Experiences)
Benbulben Forest Walk: This family-friendly 5km looped trail offers a relatively flat and accessible path through mixed woodland, providing some of the very best and most dramatic close-up views of the iconic Benbulben mountain.
Glencar Lake Loop: A gentle and picturesque lakeside stroll that is suitable for all ages and abilities. The trail offers serene views across the tranquil waters of Glencar Lough, surrounded by steep hills and waterfalls.
Knocknarea Hike: The climb to the summit of Knocknarea is a classic Sligo activity. The well-trodden path leads you to the massive ancient cairn of Queen Maeve and rewards you with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the county.
Dartry Mountains Drive: For those who prefer to take in the scenery from the car, this scenic driving loop winds through the dramatic Dartry Mountains, offering stunning vistas of Gleniff, Benbulben, and the surrounding landscapes.
Lough Gill Boat Tour: Embark on a boat tour from Parke’s Castle to fully experience the lake immortalized by W.B. Yeats. You’ll hear the poetry and lore of the area and see the famous Lake Isle of Innisfree from the water.
Culleenamore Horse Races (seasonal): Witness a truly unique and thrilling tradition where local horses and jockeys race along the hard sand of Culleenamore Strand. This seasonal event is a vibrant part of local heritage.
Ox Mountains: For those seeking solitude and wild terrain, the Ox Mountains offer off-the-beaten-path hiking across heather-clad hills, remote bogland, and quiet lakes, providing a sense of true remoteness.
Eagles Flying Centre (Ballymote): An interactive bird of prey sanctuary where visitors can get up close to eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons. The daily flying demonstrations are both educational and spectacular.
Hazelwood Sculpture Trail: This peaceful woodland walk on the shores of Lough Gill combines nature and art. The trail features a changing collection of contemporary sculptures integrated into the forest environment, making for a stimulating stroll.
A 3 days Sligo road trip Itinerary
Travel Tips
Day 1 – Sligo Town & Yeats Country
Morning
- Sligo Abbey – Explore the 13th-century Dominican ruins (€5, Heritage Ireland).
- Riverside Walk – Stroll along the Garavogue River; pop into a café like Lily’s & Lolly’s for coffee.
Afternoon
Drumcliffe Churchyard – Visit Yeats’ grave beneath Benbulben. Free entry.
Glencar Waterfall – A short drive away; family-friendly and picnic-ready. Discover Ireland
Evening
- Dinner in Sligo Town – Try Eala Bhán for Irish fine dining or Hargadon Bros for traditional pub fare.
- Live music at Shoot the Crows or McLynn’s Bar.
Day 2 – Surf & Coastline
Morning
Strandhill Beach – Surf lesson with Strandhill Surf School or enjoy a seaweed bath at Voya.
Coffee & scones at Shells Café on the beachfront.
Afternoon
- Mullaghmore Head Scenic Drive – Spectacular headland loop with views of Classiebawn Castle. Discover Ireland
- Streedagh Beach – Walk the strand, learn about the Spanish Armada wrecks.
Evening
Dinner at The Beach Bar (Aughris) – great seafood and local pints by the ocean.
Sunset drive back along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Day 3 – History & Heritage
Morning
Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery – Explore 5000-year-old tombs (€5, OPW).
Knocknarea Hike – 1.5hr climb to Queen Maeve’s Cairn, with panoramic views.
Afternoon
Parke’s Castle (Lough Gill) – Restored 17th-century plantation castle (€5, Heritage Ireland).
Lough Gill Boat Tour – Visit Yeats’s “Lake Isle of Innisfree” Info.
Evening
Return to Sligo Town for final dinner at Hooked (modern Irish cuisine).
Nightcap at a local pub with live trad music.
Practical Tips
Getting around: Car hire is recommended; most sights are within 20–40 minutes’ drive.
Best season: May–September for hiking/surf; October–March for fewer crowds.
Accessibility: Many heritage sites (e.g., Carrowmore, Parke’s Castle) have limited wheelchair access — check official Heritage Ireland accessibility info.
Sligo Way — 80km long-distance trail for serious hikers.
From the wild waves of Strandhill to the ancient tombs of Carrowmore, Sligo is a place where history, adventure, and natural beauty collide. Experiencing it like a local allows you to uncover hidden gems, savour authentic food, and connect with the landscapes that inspired Yeats. Whether you’re exploring rugged cliffs, strolling through charming villages, or hiking iconic mountains, Sligo offers something unforgettable for every traveller. Use this guide to plan your journey, and let the magic of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Where to stay in Sligo
Glasshouse Hotel
The Glasshouse Hotel: The Glasshouse is set on The Garravogue River in Sligo’s centre. It boasts an AA Rosette restaurant and a gym. Chic and stylish, each room features a 26-inch LCD TV with internet access and an entertainment menu. Rooms also include a private bathrooms and a hairdryer. Individual climate control is available in each room, along with free tea and coffee.
The award-winning Kitchen restaurant serves full Irish breakfasts, an extensive lunch menu, and a creative evening á la carte menu. The Manhattan-style View Bar boasts fantastic river views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and luxurious decor. O’Connell Street, the main street in Sligo, and the WB Yeats memorial building are both a 2-minute walk away. Sligo Station is less than 10 minutes away, and Hawks Well Theatre is a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
Markree Castle
The only Castle Hotel in Sligo is Markree Castle, which was home to the Cooper Family for over 370 years. With beautiful Italianate gardens and 500 acres of fields and parkland. In 2015, after four centuries, it finally changed hands and is now run by the Corscadden family who owns several hotels around Ireland. The Castle reopened after its refurbishment and renovation in 2018 to rave reviews.
Best cottages to rent in Sligo
Everyone loves an Irish cottage whether a thatched roof picturesque location by the sea or in the midst of green Irish landscapes here are two of my favourites in Sligo.
Lislary Cottage
Lislary Cottage is a 3-bedroom cottage with a garden. Lissadell House is 3.7 km from the holiday home, while Sligo County Museum is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Ireland West Knock Airport, 70 km from Lislary Cottage on Wild Atlantic Way.
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Ireland is such a beautiful place. I really hope to got there soon. Specially after seeing these great pics!
Wow. Looks cool. Never knew there are so many things you could do there. All we every hear about Ireland is Dublin LOL