A Trip Down Memory Lane,
Thirty Years in the Making
From a community vision to a living celebration of Irish heritage,
this is the story of Sligo Folk Park and the people who made it happen.
A Trip Down Memory Lane,
Our History
A Timeline of Community, Heritage and Dedication
1990
A Community Comes Together
Locals from Riverstown, drawn from backgrounds in agriculture, business, education, and community life, joined forces with a shared goal: to reverse rural decline and make Riverstown a thriving place to live, work, and raise a family. A company was formed and a comprehensive action plan was put in place.
Early 1990s
Laying the Foundations
A number of community projects followed, improving the village environment and creating local employment. Millview House, a turn of the century farmhouse set on six acres, was purchased as the company headquarters. An historical research project was launched, uncovering the rich local history of the area. Today, large volumes of documents and photographs from that research remain available for public access.
1994
Mrs Buckley’s Cottage Takes Her First Steps
The now famous thatched cottage was built at Sligo Folk Park and made her debut at the Beat on the Peat festival in Yonkers, New York, beginning a remarkable journey that would see her travel to festivals across Ireland and receive two Presidents.
1997
Riverstown Creamery Milestone
The first creamery in Riverstown had opened a century earlier in 1897, a piece of local history now commemorated and celebrated within the park’s Dairy House exhibition.
2001
Opening the Gates
Sligo Folk Park officially opened its doors to visitors, welcoming tourists and locals alike to explore thousands of artefacts, all donated by the local community, housed across Millview House and eight other buildings on the site.
2001 to Present
Growing the Collection
The Folk Park has continued to welcome visitors for tours and annual events every year since opening. The collection has grown steadily, with heritage items continuously being restored and placed on display.
2019
A New Chapter Begins
Sligo Folk Park commenced a major redevelopment of the site, bringing new and exciting additions to the park on a regular basis, ensuring the story of rural Irish life continues to be told for generations to come.
2026
Accessible Pathways Installation
The installation of accessibility pathways throughout the park and the development of our sensory garden ensures that Sligo Folk Park is a welcoming and inclusive visitor experience for all.
Today
Community at the Heart of Everything
Sligo Folk Park remains a proudly community run social enterprise, dedicated to promoting Sligo tourism, supporting local employment, and preserving the heritage of the region for future generations. The park is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors including Noel Jinks (Chair), Michael Tuohy (Vice-Chair), Elaine Tuohy (Secretary), Hugh Kelly (Assisstant Secretary), Mary Kelly (Treasurer), John Taylor (PRO), Hilda Shaw, Paul Quinn, and Dermot McDermott. The company warmly welcomes enquiries from anyone in the local community or beyond who would be interested in joining the Board.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you are popping in for a few hours or making a full day of it, Sligo Folk Park has plenty to see, explore, and enjoy. Here is everything you need to know before you arrive.
Opening Times
Monday to Friday (All Year)
10am to 5pm, last tour at 4pm
May to September (Saturday)
10am to 5pm
May to September (Sunday and Bank Holidays)
12 noon to 5pm
Admission Prices
Adult: €12
Child (4 to 16 years): €6
Family (2 Adults and 2 Children): €30
Discounted Adult: €10
Children under 4: Free
Group rates available (over 10 persons)
Location
Sligo Folk Park is located in the heart of Riverstown village, just 15 minutes from Sligo Town and Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
Eircode: F52 TX06
Events
From our Easter Eggtravaganza to the famous Halloween Scare in the Park, we host a packed calendar of seasonal events the whole family will love.
Splash