Gleniff Horseshoe, Cycling, Benwiskin Tr
Mullaghmore Head, a dramatic coastal peninsula in County Sligo, Ireland

North Sligo

There is lots of things to do for all ages in North Sligo. There are glorious beaches, scenic walks, historical sites and lots more.

Benbulben Mountain

Benbulben is Sligo’s most iconic natural landmark, known for its dramatic flat top and towering cliffs. Part of the Dartry Mountains, it offers scenic walking trails and panoramic views over Sligo Bay and the Atlantic. You don’t need to climb it to appreciate its beauty — even from the road, it’s a striking sight.

Mullaghmore Beach & Head

This large sandy beach is perfect for a peaceful walk or watching surfers take on some of Ireland’s biggest waves. Nearby, Mullaghmore Head offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, with the silhouette of Classiebawn Castle in the background — a popular photo stop and picnic spot.

Streedagh Beach

A long, quiet strand popular with walkers and surfers, Streedagh Beach is also known for its history — it's the site where Spanish Armada ships were wrecked in 1588. It’s a peaceful place to take in Sligo’s coastline, with dunes and distant mountain views.

Drumcliffe Church

Set at the foot of Benbulben, this churchyard is the final resting place of poet W.B. Yeats. It’s a peaceful, historic site with a round tower, old stone crosses, and views of the mountains. A small café and craft shop nearby make it a nice stop for a short visit.

Glencar Waterfall

Located just over the border in Leitrim, this 15-metre waterfall inspired the poetry of W.B. Yeats. The short walk from the car park leads through woodland and opens up to a picturesque view of the falls — a great stop for families or a quiet moment in nature.

The Atlantic coastline is a magnificent resource and offers so many options for enjoying the outdoor life. Sligo has some great surfing beaches, Strandhill and Mullaghmore with its famous Prowlers Wave are particularly well known and have several options for lessons and equipment rental.

Sea angling is a great day out. Fishing trips go regularly from Rosses Point and Mullaghmore. The skippers will take your group sightseeing instead if that’s your preference. If you’d prefer to keep two feet on firm ground, you can still learn shore angling from the beach (and the kids can too).

SUPping (stand up paddleboarding) is a fabulous way to see the coastline from a different perspective. No experience is necessary and the learning curve is swift. What’s not to like?

If you’re feeling brave, coasteering is an exhilarating way to enjoy the Atlantic shoreline.
SUPping and kayaking are also available inshore on scenic Lough Talt or Lough Easkey where you don’t even need to deal with waves! 

Or you could try your hand paddling a Canadian canoe where your lunch definitely won’t get wet.

Why not take a boat trip on the idyllic Lough Gill, a must see attraction during your visit to Sligo.
Choose from galloping along a sandy beach or trekking on quiet lanes and mountain trails. Being on horseback really gives a different perspective to the countryside. Riding stables are located in Grange, Cloonacool, and Tubbercurry.
Sligo is a beautiful county and walking, particularly in the hills and mountains is a lovely way to see it in detail. 

Visit the beautiful coastline at one of the many stunning Beaches Sligo has to offer. 

Take a walk along the Garavogue River down to the lovely Doorly Park. 

Choose from self guided walks or go with one of the walking guides available to book at Sligo Walking Tours. Just make sure you’re dressed for the walk you’re going to do!
Seeing Sligo by bike is a great option – either road bike or mountain bike. 

Visit Cycling routes in Sligo for a helpful guide to some local routes and check out Coolaney MTB Trails if you are looking for an adventurous trail with some beautiful views.