County Sligo · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Enchanting County Sligo: Ireland's Hidden Gem

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

County Sligo, located on the stunning west coast of Ireland, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Known as 'Yeats Country,' it is where the famous poet W.B. Yeats found much of his inspiration. The county is dotted with ancient monuments, rolling hills, and pristine beaches that offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors to County Sligo can explore the impressive Benbulben Mountain, often called Ireland's Table Mountain. This unique rock formation offers scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The nearby Glencar Waterfall, immortalized in Yeats' poetry, is a must-see, especially after a rainfall when it is at its most dramatic. The coastal town of Strandhill is perfect for those who love the sea. It's renowned for its surfing spots and vibrant local community. Don't miss a visit to the Voya Seaweed Baths for a traditional Irish seaweed bath experience. History buffs will revel in exploring Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, one of the largest and oldest Stone Age cemeteries in Ireland. Each grave tells a story of the ancient people who once roamed this land. County Sligo is also home to Lough Gill, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush forests. Take a boat trip to the Isle of Innisfree or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore. The charming town of Sligo itself offers a range of attractions including the Sligo Abbey, a 13th-century Dominican Friary, and a number of art galleries, shops, and traditional Irish pubs where you can enjoy live music and local cuisine.

Sligo

Sligo Abbey

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Gleniff Horseshoe

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Strandhill

Queen Maeve's Cairn

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Keshcorran Caves

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Castle Classiebawn Viewpoint

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Easkey Castle

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Dunmoran Strand

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Luke's Bridge (start of Benbulbin walk)

Discover County Sligo, Ireland's hidden gem, where natural beauty, ancient history, and cultural heritage come together to create an unforgettable experience.

When is the best time to go to County Sligo?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJun–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodFeb–Sep

Explore places in County Sligo

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    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic County Sligo sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    Essential bars & hidden hideouts

    The evening cards below match the bars layer in the map, so browsing and orientation stay connected.

    File:Cliffs Of Moher Panorama Clare Ireland Landscape Photography  (221392087).jpeg - Wikimedia Commons
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    Explore County Sligo in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Benbulbenmount.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:WBYeats.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery P7 2015 09 08.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Rosses Point .jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Sligo Abbey Kreuzgang.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Lissadell House Copyright Nigel Aspdin.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Queen Maeve's Rocks.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Glencar waterfall01.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Strandhill Ireland.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Classiebawn Castle, Mullaghmore.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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