Local Sligo Attractions

Known as Yeats Country, County Sligo is a special place that is rich in culture and history. To get the full experience and make the most of your stay, you’ll need to know the must-see spots and top Sligo attractions to visit.

Gravestone of Irish poet W.B. Yeats in a cemetery, inscribed with the epitaph:

W.B Yeats’ grave

Drumcliffe Churchyard is the final resting place of one of Ireland’s most prominent figures; W.B Yeats. His influence in the Irish literature space is simply unmatched, making his grave a pilgrimage spot for literature buffs worldwide.

The Churchyard is at the foot of Benbulben mountain and is only a short 15-minute drive away from Riverside Hotel Sligo. His grave displays his most famous epitaph: "Cast a cold Eye On Life, on Death. Horseman. pass by!" As far as Sligo attractions go, this one is must-see.

Did you know that Yeats himself specifically requested that “no marble, no conventional phrase” was to be used for his grave.

A cloister passage with stone columns and arches overlooking a graveyard in a grassy courtyard. The aged stonework shows signs of erosion and moss, adding to the historical feel.

Sligo Abbey

Also known as the ‘Dominican Friary of Sligo’, Sligo Abbey is a 13th century abbey that has stood the test of time. Surviving multiple disasters in its time, the remaining sections of the gothic and renaissance inspired abbey provide a fascinating insight on the period it was originally built in.

Open daily, the abbey offers guided tours for a small admission fee around its remains to visitors who want a better understanding of its regional significance and history. The abbey is less than a 5-minute walk from the Riverside Hotel, so it should definitely be on your list of Sligo attractions to visit.

A peregrine falcon flies toward the camera with wings fully extended and tail spread wide. The soft, muted backdrop emphasizes the detailed plumage and sharp eyes of the bird.

Eagles Flying

Eagles Flying is Irelands largest sanctuary for raptors and owls, and it is a seasonal attraction that children are sure to love. Open every day of the week between April and early November, you’ll see raptors and other birds of prey up close.

Visitors will be treated to an interactive, hour-long show led by a professional that’ll take you into the world of these magnificent creatures. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to hold one, or better yet, have one fly on to your arm.

There is also a petting-zoo onsite for visitors, where you can cuddle a variety of animals, such as rabbits or ferrets.

An underwater view of golden-brown kelp swaying gently in clear blue water, with light reflecting off the surface, creating shimmering patterns above.

VOYA Seaweed Baths

Feeling sore after that Benbulben trail or just fancy a day of TLC? Located in Strandhill, VOYA seaweed baths is a natural seaweed bathhouse that continues the traditional Irish practice in a modern atmosphere. Using sustainably sourced seaweed from the Atlantic Ocean, seaweed baths are an underrated way to relieve bodily aches or making your skin silky smooth.

The bathhouse can be accessed via a 25-minute drive by car, or a 30-minute bus ride. VOYAs’ seaweed baths are popular amongst visitors and non-visitors of Sligo, so it is recommended to book in advance to avoid any disappointment. You can book your seaweed bath by either visiting their website or calling the telephone number on their website.

A sign with an icon of headphones and an audio guide symbol, followed by a right-pointing arrow, indicating the direction to an audio tour or guide service.

Sligo Folk Park

Situated on 6 acres of mature gardens in the charming village of Riverstown, and only 15-minutes from Sligo Town. the Sligo Folk Park provides a captivating experience on rural Irish life at the end of the 19th century. Embark on a self-guided audio tour through the different exhibitions and take a step back through time.

The Sligo Folk Park has plenty of space for a picnic between activities, you can either bring your own or visit the cafe in the Folk Park. The park is open daily, but be sure to check the opening times, as they can change depending on the season.

Golf

Sligo is home to some of the best golf courses in the world making it ideal for perfecting your putt. The courses situated on the Wild Atlantic Way are acclaimed by golfers worldwide.

County Sligo Golf Club is sat at Rosses Point, and it’s one of the most picturesque golf courses in the world. GolfDigest have ranked it as one of the top 100 best courses in the world. There’s a pro shop inside for you to buy some County Sligo golf memorabilia, so you have something to remember your visit by.

Strandhill golf course is another entry in the top 100 best courses. A par 70 course, 18-holes of scenic bliss awaits you, and once you’ve finished your round, sit back in the clubhouse and enjoy a refreshing pint whilst you soak in the views.

For the golfing enthusiast, It’s hard to find a reason not to book a round of golf in County Sligo. For more information or to book, please visit the County Sligo Golf Club and Strandhill Golf Club websites.

Outdoor Activities

The Yeats Country is a paradise for outdoor activities. From horse riding on Streedagh beach with Benbulben as your backdrop to cycling the 24-mile-long Sligo Way, Sligo County with its idyllic scenery is perfect for outdoor activities.

Harbour SUP offers sessions for stand up paddleboarding from their homebase at Enniscrone. Catering to both beginners and veterans alike, individual and group sessions can be booked for up to twenty-four people. They have beginner friendly equipment for hire, so just turn up and get ready for a great time!

Another excellent provider for activities in Sligo is Northwest Adventure Tours. Offering freediving experiences and night hikes in the moon light, there’s something for the adrenaline junkie in the group. Founded in 2010, the team at NWAT are seasoned experts, so you can rest easy knowing you are well cared for.

For any information on any other activities in Sligo, please see the Sligo website.

Sligo

A Memorable Day in the Yeats Country

Sligo attractions are numerous, and this list is just a taste of what’s on offer. There are still plenty of attractions that deserve recognition and exploration. You won’t be able to see all of these in one day though, that’s where we come in.

The Riverside Hotel Sligo is the perfect base for exploring Sligo County. Relax with all the time in the world, sleep soundly after a full day of discovery; wake feeling refreshed and ready to do it all again.