16 Best Things to do in Sligo (2025 Road Trip)

Sligo is famous for its rugged landscapes, where windswept mountains meet wild Atlantic shores, its world-class surf that draws thrill-seekers to towering waves, and its deep literary connections.

One of the reasons that this is my favourite county in Ireland is that many of the best things to do in Sligo are clustered within easy reach, allowing you to wander between terrific trails, ancient tombs, and breath-taking beaches without spending too much time behind the wheel.

In this guide, you’ll discover what to do in Sligo, from tourists favourites, like Sligo Abbey, to unusual attractions, like the ‘hidden’ Glen. Cheers!

The best things to do in Sligo

This peach of a Wild Atlantic Way county is home to the striking Benbulben mountain, the ancient tombs of Carrowmore, and the landscapes that inspired W.B. Yeats’ poetry.

Whether you’re hiking windswept trails, exploring medieval ruins, or tucking into fresh seafood after a day on the waves, there are endless places to visit in Sligo at any time of year.

1. The Gleniff Horseshoe

The Gleniff Horseshoe should take pride of place on every Sligo road trip! This is a glacial valley on the northern side of the Dartry Mountains and you can explore it by car, bike or on foot.

Formed during the last Ice Age, this rugged landscape is defined by towering cliffs, steep slopes, and sweeping views over Donegal Bay.

Along the way, you’ll pass abandoned mining structures, the eerie remains of the Gleniff Barytes Mill, and the legendary Diarmuid and Gráinne’s Cave.

The Gleniff Horseshoe Walk is a moderate 9.1km trail, while the drive takes just 30 minutes, making it one of the best things to do in Sligo if you’re short on time but want to experience its wild, untamed beauty.

2. The Mullaghmore Head Walk

If you’re wondering what to do in Sligo that’ll blast away even the stickiest of post-pint cobwebs, the Mullaghmore Head Walk is worth a bash!

This 8km coastal loop takes around 2.5 hours, but it’s an easy-going ramble with some of the best sea views in the county.

Along the way, you’ll pass Classiebawn Castle, standing defiantly against the Atlantic, and get a clear view of Benbulben’s towering slopes in the distance.

Keep an eye on the waves, too—Mullaghmore is one of Europe’s top big-wave surf spots, where swells can reach a staggering 60 feet!

3. The Caves of Keash

The Caves of Keash are one of the most unique places to visit in Sligo—a series of 17 ancient limestone caves carved into the side of Keshcorran Hill, towering over the village of Keash.

These caves aren’t just visually striking; they boast a history that stretches back thousands of years, with human remains and Ice Age animal bones discovered inside, some dating back older than the Pyramids of Egypt.

Getting to the caves requires a short but steep 20-minute climb, and while the trail is well-marked, it can be treacherous in wet weather, so sturdy footwear is a must.

4. Carrowmore

If you’re wondering what to do in Sligo that’ll immerse you in the county’s history, make a beeline for Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

This is Ireland’s largest and oldest collection of Neolithic tombs, dating back 6,000+ years.

Located near Knocknarea, it features 30 surviving tombs, with Listoghil (Tomb 51) as its focal point. These early passage tombs were built by seafaring settlers from Brittany, whose remains, tools, and Ice Age animal bones have been uncovered here.

A visit takes around 1.5 hours, with a visitor centre offering insight into its history. Highlights include the Kissing Stone, a remarkably intact dolmen, and panoramic views of Lough Gill and the Ballygawley Mountains.

5. The Knocknarea Queen Maeve Trail

The Knocknarea Walk (Queen Maeve Trail) is one of the most rewarding walks in Sligo, offering panoramic views and a direct link to Irish mythology.

This 6km trail takes 1.5 to 2 hours and leads you up the 327m-high Knocknarea Mountain, where Queen Maeve’s Cairn sits at the summit.

Starting from Strandhill, the route follows a gravel path and wooden boardwalk, with several hundred steps to climb. The effort pays off with sweeping views over Strandhill, Sligo Bay, and, on a clear day, the Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal. 

6. Sligo Abbey

A visit to Sligo Abbey is one of the best things to do in Sligo Town, offering a glimpse into medieval Ireland with its well-preserved ruins and intricate stone carvings.

Founded in the mid-13th century, this Dominican Friary survived fires, wars, and the Dissolution of the Monasteries, with much of its original structure still standing today.

Visitors can explore the towering Gothic arches, 15th-century cloisters, and ancient tombs, including the O’Craian altar tomb (1506) and the O’Connor mural, dedicated to the noble family who fought to preserve the abbey.

There’s also a chilling connection to Dracula—Bram Stoker’s mother, Charlotte Thornley, documented a horrific cholera outbreak here in 183

7. Sruth in Aghaidh an Aird

The Devil’s Chimney (Sruth in Aghaidh An Aird) is Ireland’s tallest waterfall, but there’s a catch—it only flows after heavy rain.

Located on the Sligo-Leitrim border, this 150-metre cascade gets its name from the way strong winds can blow the water back up the cliff, creating an eerie, smoke-like effect.

The 1.2km loop walk takes around 45 minutes to an hour and offers multiple viewing points along the way.

Just a stone’s throw from Glencar Waterfall, this is one of the most unique things to do in Sligo, but timing is everything—visit after a dry spell, and you’ll be staring at a bare rock face!

8. The Benbulben Forest Walk

The Benbulben Forest Walk is a 5.5km loop that offers incredible views of Sligo’s most famous mountain without the need to climb it.

The trail starts 15 minutes from Sligo Town and follows a flat, well-maintained path, making it an easy walk for most fitness levels.

The route begins in dense woodland, before opening up to jaw-dropping views of Benbulben’s sheer face on one side and Donegal Bay, Mullaghmore, and even Slieve League on the other.

9. Coney Island

Coney Island is another of the more unique places to visit in Sligo. This is a quiet, rabbit-filled island sitting between Rosses Point and the Coolera Peninsula.

It’s accessible by boat from Rosses Point or by crossing Cummeen Strand at low tide, following 14 stone pillars that mark the safe route.

The island is steeped in history, with fairy forts, ancient stone circles, and St. Patrick’s Well, plus a possible link to New York’s Coney Island. A 45-minute walk across the strand brings you to Carty’s Strand, a peaceful beach perfect for a wander.

If you’re planning a visit, check Coney Island tide times—many have been stranded over the years!

10. The grave of W. B Yeats

Drumcliffe Church is best known as the final resting place of W.B. Yeats, but its history stretches back much further.

Set against the backdrop of Benbulben, this 6th-century monastic site is home to a striking 11th-century High Cross and the remains of a round tower.

However, it’s Yeats’ connection that has cemented Drumcliffe Church as one of the more popular Sligo tourist attractions. His grave, marked by a plain headstone, bears his self-penned epitaph: “Cast a cold eye on life, on death, horseman, pass by.”

11. The Knocknashee Walk

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Sligo that’ll take you away from the crowds, tackle the Knocknashee Walk.

This is a short, tough and rewarding hike up one of Ireland’s most intriguing Bronze Age hillforts. Sitting 276m above sea level, this 1.5km trail offers incredible 360° views over Sligo, Mayo, and the Ox Mountains.

Starting at a small roadside parking area, the trail begins with a steep gravel path, leading to a grassy plateau where remnants of ancient stone ramparts, burial cairns, and megalithic tombs hint at its 4,000-year-old history.

The name Knocknashee—meaning Hill of the Fairies—adds a touch of Irish folklore to the experience.

12. The Glen

The Glen is tucked into the side of Knocknarea Mountain. This a hidden gem and a half and it’s one of the most unusual places to visit in Sligo.

Formed by glacial activity—or perhaps something more mystical—it’s a narrow, mossy chasm lined with towering 60ft rock walls, dripping water, and thick ferns.

Completely sheltered from the outside world, it feels like stepping into another realm. The Glen is unmarked and tricky to find, but those who do are rewarded with an otherworldly escape.

13. Surfing

Sligo is Ireland’s surf capital, where the Atlantic delivers waves for all levels, from rolling beach breaks to monstrous reef swells.

There are several beaches in Sligo where waves draw surfers from across the country. Strandhill Beach is the go-to for beginners, with surf schools lining the shore, some great accommodation options and a lively village to refuel afterward (see my guide restaurants in Strandhill).

Enniscrone Beach offers a gentler alternative, with a vast sandy beach and forgiving waves. For experienced surfers, Easkey’s reef breaks have been legendary since the ‘70s, serving up powerful, glassy barrels.

Then there’s Mullaghmore—where only the bravest tackle waves that can reach 40ft. Some other beaches well worth a visit for a ramble are Streedagh Beach, Mullaghmore Beach and Rosses Point Beach.

14. Sligo’s oldest pub

Sligo is home to some mighty pubs. For tunes and a sensational pint of Guinness, head to McGlynn’s in the town.

For a pint with a view, you can’t bate the Beach Bar at Aughris. And, for a fine bit of history, head to Thomas Connolly’s in Sligo Town.

Sligo’s oldest licensed pub, it has been pouring pints since 1861. Steeped in history, it has welcomed figures like Charles Stewart Parnell and once housed a grocer’s shop alongside its bar.

15. Union Wood and/or Hazelwood Forest

If you’re wondering what to do in Sligo on a fine morning, give one of these walks a whack! Union Wood is a 15-minute spin from Sligo Town. There are two trails: the Oakwood Trail (2 hours) and the Union Rock Trail (1.5 hours).

Both are easy-going, with ever-changing scenery and panoramic views of the Ox Mountains, Knocknarea, and Ballygawley Lake on a clear day.

Hazelwood Demesne is one of the first stops on the Lough Gill Drive and a perfect spot for a wander.

Sitting at Half Moon Bay, it offers short trails with spectacular views of Church Island, Cottage Island, and Goat Island, along with the tranquil waters of Lough Gill.

16. A room with a view

There’s plenty of great hotels in Sligo that make the perfect base for a visit, however, there are also some unique places to stay.

If you fancy a very memorable experience, the likes of Markree Castle and Benbulben Farmhouse (above) are worth checking out.

There are also plenty of places to go camping in Sligo, with everything from wild camping to campsites by the sea on offer.

Explore beyond the places to visit in Sligo

Now that you know what to do in Sligo, it’s time to explore the places to visit nearby.

Here are some places very worthy of your time, after you’ve ticked off the different things to do in Sligo in Ireland:

• Bundoran (30-minute drive)
• Donegal Town (1-hour drive)
• Cuilcagh (55-minute drive)