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Explore Sligo

We are thrilled to announce that the theme for this year’s
Sligo St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2026 will be “Legends Live Here”

WILD ATLANTIC WAY

WILD ATLANTIC WAY

There’s adventure and excitement around every corner of the Wild Atlantic Way, from the Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal to Kinsale in Cork.

www.discoverireland.ie

1. SLIGO ABBEY

1. SLIGO ABBEY

Steep yourself in Sligo towns history with a visit to the impressive Abbey built in 1252 by town founder Maurice FitzGerald.
The Dominican Abbey boasts an impressive array of carvings, tombs and sculptures.

www.heritageireland.ie

2. SLIGO OYSTERS

2. SLIGO OYSTERS

If you are looking to try delicious oysters in the heart of Sligo Town, Sligo Oyster Experience have oysters that come straight from their farm to your plate.

Sligo Oyster Experience is located in WB’s Coffee House, on Stephen Street, Sligo Town, and was established by Aisling Kelly Hunter. You can visit WB’s Coffee House and try their delicious oysters, naked or baked, along with other oyster dishes.

www.sligooysterexperience.ie

3. COCKTAILS & WHISKEY

3. COCKTAILS & WHISKEY

Sligo boasts an array of Cocktail / Whiskey specialist bars.

Thomas Connollys hosts Whiskey Tasting whilst Cocktail fans should visit Lillie’s, The Blind Tiger andBourbon Bar. A visit to any local Sligo Pub will give an authentic Irish pub experience.

4. GO FOR A WALK

4. GO FOR A WALK

The Benbulben Loop is a pleasant, mostly easy walk that’s perfect for taking an afternoon out to stretch the legs with family or friends.

Head out from the car park at the entrance to Gortarowey Forest and enjoy the easygoing company of fellow hikers, runners and nature groups as you take in the fresh country air, lush forested hills, and beautiful views of picturesque Benbulben.

www.discoverireland.ie/sligo/ben-bulben-loop

5. HORSE RACING

5. HORSE RACING

Sligo Races hosts 9 meetings each year between May-Oct.
With stunning views and comfortable facilities, its’ the perfect day out for all.

www.countysligoraces.com

6. GET CRAFTY

6. GET CRAFTY

Sligo has an abundance of local craft makers, check out www.madeinsligo.com or to see a master live at work and hear a good story.

Visit Michael Quirke on Wine St

7. COFFEE & CHILL

7. COFFEE & CHILL

Wherever you go in Sligo town, an amazing café is nearby.
Chill outside a riverside café or find a cosy nook with a book.
Just ask anyone you meet for suggestions.

8. SKATE OR SCOOT

8. SKATE OR SCOOT

Whatever the weather. Zero Gravity Indoor Skatepark is 5 min walk from the town centre and has challenges for all ages and abilities.

www.zerogravity.ie

9. SHOP TIL YOU DROP

9. SHOP TIL YOU DROP

Sligo has a wide range of shops, from local artisan suppliers to high street favourites. Carraroe and Cleveragh Retail Parks also have many of your favourite stores not far from the town centre.

10. RIVER CRUISE

10. RIVER CRUISE

ON LOUGH GILL
The Rose of Innisfree Tourboat offers a unique Sligo experience as you enjoy the views of Lough Gill to the sounds of Yeats poetry.

www.roseofinnisfree.com

11. WATER SPORTS

11. WATER SPORTS

Discover the magic of surfing with Atlantic Surf School, Strandhill, County Sligo. Begin your journey here to enjoy many hours of unforgettable adventure in the Atlantic waves.

Atlantic Surf School offers a complete surfing experience for both beginners and intermediate level surfers. Comprehensive lessons provided by expert instructors ensure that each individual surfer has an enjoyable and safe surfing experience.

Strandhill is an incredible location to catch some waves and enjoy a memorable surfing experience in the company of a welcoming community of surfers. Some of the best waves in Europe, as well as the use of high quality equipment, means time spent at Atlantic Surf School is very rewarding.

12. GONE FISHING

12. GONE FISHING

A popular sight is to see local fisherman hook their line into the Garavogue. Why not give it a go and head to Barton Smiths for all your equipment.

13. TAKE A GUIDED WALK.

13. TAKE A GUIDED WALK.

A number of local companies offer a guided trail around the town to help you learn more about the beautiful buildings and sights you pass.

www.sligowalkingtours.com

14. LOUNGE IN THE LIBRARY

14. LOUNGE IN THE LIBRARY

Take a breather from it all or entertain the kids on a wet day, Sligo Library is on Stephen St and has a huge offering.

www.sligolibrary.ie

15. SLIGO COUNTY MUSEUM

15. SLIGO COUNTY MUSEUM

From Stone Age Artefacts to Yeats and Countess Markievicz memorabilia, a visit here will steep you in our local history. Just across from the library too.

16. BROWSE SOME BOOKS

16. BROWSE SOME BOOKS

For a good holiday read, pop into the Award winning LIber on O’Connell St, or check out Easons two outlets. Bookmart may have a hidden gem you’ve always wanted.

17. CATCH A LIVE GIG

17. CATCH A LIVE GIG

From 4 – 11 July 2026, Cairde Sligo Arts Festival brings Sligo to life with music, dance, theatre, spectacle & more in streets, buildings, landscapes & unexpected venues across the county. Join us for a vibrant celebration of creativity & community!

Cairde Sligo Arts Festival is an annual, 8-day celebration of imagination and shared experience that welcomes all.

Inspired by the creative energy of Ireland’s Northwest, the festival brings artists and audiences together for music, theatre, dance, visual arts, spoken word and spectacle.

www.cairdefestival.com

18. DANCE YOUR SOCKS OFF

18. DANCE YOUR SOCKS OFF

If you don’t get enough dancing at the live gig, head to The Garavogue Bar, Gracies Bar, Bourbon or Lola Montez for a late night boogie.

19. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN YEATS

19. IMMERSE YOURSELF IN YEATS

YOURSELF IN YEATS
Sligo’s most famous son is every where in Sligo. Grab a selfie with his statue or visit the Yeats building for a more in depth tour.

www.yeatssocietysligo.com

20. FRESH BAKES

20. FRESH BAKES

Lots of Sligo’s eateries boast their own signature bakes. La Fournil, Kates Kitchen, Baker Boys or O’Hehirs are just a few to mention.

21. MAKE A MEAL OF IT

21. MAKE A MEAL OF IT

From Fine Dining to Bar Bites, you’re never too far from a tasty Sligo food stop. If it’s a romantic meal or a Burger with the match, you’ll not be stuck for options in Sligo.

www.sligofoodtrail.ie

22. GRAB A MOVIE

22. GRAB A MOVIE

Sligo Omniplex 10 Screens will ensure your movie taste is covered or why not experience their MAXX Screen! The Model also offers more niche screenings each month.

www.omniplex.ie

23. CATCH A SHOW

23. CATCH A SHOW

The Hawk’s Well Theatre is one of Irelands most iconic theatres and their programme features lots of day time family fun during the holidays as well as nightly theatre and music shows.

www.hawkswell.com

24. GET ARTY AT THE MODEL

24. GET ARTY AT THE MODEL

Home to one of Irelands most notable public arts collections, expect to be wow’ed by pieces by Jack B Yeats or the Niland Collection.

www.themodel.ie

25. TIME FOR A SPA DAY

25. TIME FOR A SPA DAY

If it’s a massage or a full on Spa Day, Sligo has many options to choose from. Maybe go a step further and try a specialist seaweed bath at Voya in Strandhill.

26. BLUE RAINCOAT THEATRE

26. BLUE RAINCOAT THEATRE

Produce a number of professional productions every year, with an emphasis on modern European classics, new writing and new adaptations for stage.

www.blueraincoat.com

27. TAKE A BREWERY TOUR

27. TAKE A BREWERY TOUR

Just a 5 min walk from the town centre, Lough Gill Brewery offer tours which will show you Sligo’s brewing history whilst learning the brewing process.

www.loughgillbrewery.com

28. BRING THE KIDS FOR A PLAY

28. BRING THE KIDS FOR A PLAY

Doorly Park. Kevinsfort Park, Sligo Regional Park and Forthill Park, just Google these for some Free outdoor fun.

30. GET SNOOKERED

30. GET SNOOKERED

The Embassy Rooms have a beautiful space filled with full size Snooker tables as well as American Pool tables.

www.belfrypub.com

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