Welcome to County Sligo

Sligo is one of Ireland’s most captivating counties, a place where dramatic landscapes, ancient history, and a rich literary tradition come together in the most spectacular way. From the iconic flat topped summit of Benbulben watching over the countryside, to the wild Atlantic crashing against the shores of Mullaghmore Head, the scenery here is simply unrivalled.

This is the county that inspired W.B. Yeats, one of Ireland’s greatest poets, and it is easy to see why. Sligo is a place that gets under your skin. Wander the laneways and trails around Benbulben, explore the enchanting megalithic sites that dot the landscape, sample fresh local produce at farmer’s markets, or simply sit back and watch the surfers take on the Atlantic swell. Whatever you are looking for, Sligo has a way of delivering it.

Riverstown sits at the heart of this beautiful county, making Sligo Folk Park the perfect base for exploring everything the region has to offer. Whether you are staying for a day or a week, there is always something new to discover just around the corner.

Explore Things to Do

Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club

The four star Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club is situated just on the edge of Sligo town, nestled in peaceful parkland in the heart of Yeats’ Country. The hotel offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty, providing guests with guest rooms that boast stunning views of Benbulben, Knocknarea, and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Visitors can enjoy delicious local cuisine in the Hazelwood Restaurant or unwind in the casual atmosphere of Jack B’s Bar and Terrace. The on-site Leisure Club features a bright swimming pool and a relaxing Jacuzzi, making it an excellent spot for rejuvenation after a day of exploring the surrounding scenery.

With 136 stylish rooms, including 31 Executive Rooms, this property is ideal for leisure breaks, family holidays, or special occasions. Excellent amenities, family activities, live entertainment, and adventure are all right on the doorstep, ensuring a memorable stay in the scenic Northwest.

The Glasshouse

The Glasshouse is a stylish, four star hotel located right in the centre of Sligo Town, setting a high standard of luxury accommodation at an affordable price. Its dramatic, modern design is beautifully contrasted by the towering backdrop of Benbulben, creating an unsurpassed urban setting.

Guests can choose from a variety of excellent dining options overlooking the River Garavogue. The hotel features fine food and attentive service in an energetic atmosphere, whether you are stopping in for Afternoon Tea, enjoying casual dining in The Café Bar, or eating at the renowned Kitchen Restaurant.

Its prime central location means that all of Sligo’s top attractions, vibrant nightlife, and shopping districts are within easy walking distance. The Glasshouse offers a chic and dynamic base for travelers looking to experience the very best of Sligo’s culture and hospitality.

Sligo Southern Hotel

Located in the heart of the bustling market town, the family owned Sligo Southern Hotel sits serenely in its own gardens adjacent to the main rail and bus stations. This popular four star hotel has been a major player in the hospitality business for over 20 years, subtly blending old-world elegance with the best of modern comforts.

The hotel features 93 well appointed ensuite bedrooms and an award winning leisure centre complete with a 13 metre swimming pool, a children’s pool, a sauna, and a steam room. Guests can kick start their day with a hearty buffet breakfast, enjoy gourmet sandwiches and traditional Atlantic chowder in the lobby beside open fires, or dine at the Garden Room restaurant, which sources fresh ingredients from local suppliers.

With its excellent conference suites and proximity to the 340 seat Hawks Well theatre and the Gaiety Cinema, the hotel caters to all types of groups. Active guests can easily access a riverside fitness trail leading to Lough Gill, while championship golf courses, surfing beaches, and the beautiful Hazelwood Forest Walk are all within a short drive.

Hooked Sligo

Hooked Sligo is an award winning restaurant in Sligo Town that delivers tasty food in a casual, eclectic environment. Named after the traditional meat hooks used in the butcher shop once run by the owner’s father, the restaurant features a cool and edgy vibe where the quality of the ingredients takes center stage.

The core ethos at Hooked is to support local, artisan, and Irish producers, which perfectly complements its spectacular location along the Wild Atlantic Way. The diverse menus cater to everyone, offering dedicated selections for breakfast, brunch, and dinner, as well as a fun “Little Nippers” menu specifically designed for children.

Visitors can indulge in everything from fluffy pancakes and smoked salmon fishcakes for brunch to slow cooked pork belly, Greek beef gyros, and local seafood for dinner. Paired with a fantastic selection of wines, it is an absolute must-visit destination for foodies traveling through Yeats Country.

Atlantic Sheepdogs

Located in the picturesque townland of Streedagh in North Sligo, Atlantic Sheepdogs offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Irish country life. Set between the majestic Benbulben Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, it provides the perfect backdrop to watch these highly trained, intelligent animals working in their natural environment.

Visitors can spend time with expert trainer Martin Feeney, who has successfully represented Ireland on the international stage with his dogs. You will learn about the art of herding, find out how the dogs are raised, and discover the different breeds of sheep reared in this beautiful coastal landscape.

A demonstration reveals how vital these sheepdogs are to a typical Irish farm as they expertly move sheep across fields and mountainsides. If you visit during the summertime, you might even get to experience the traditional craft of sheep shearing up close.

Yeats Building

The Yeats Building is a well preserved, 120 year old arts and crafts structure situated in the heart of Sligo Town along the River Garavogue. Here, the Yeats Society celebrates the immense creative legacy of Nobel laureate WB Yeats and his talented family, whose work was deeply inspired by Sligo’s folklore and wild Atlantic scenery.

The building hosts the engaging Yeats Exhibition, where visitors can listen to fascinating family stories and arrange for custom talks and tours. Upstairs, the light filled Hyde Bridge Gallery features 11 contemporary exhibitions a year that are completely free to visit, alongside an eclectic library overlooking the river.

The venue also holds a wedding licence for intimate groups of up to 40 guests, offering couples the unique opportunity to sign their register at Susan Yeats’ original writing desk. Visitors can also download their free app, Yeats Unwrapped, to explore several literary trails across the county.

The Model – Home of the Niland Collection

The Model is one of Ireland’s leading contemporary arts centres, located in a vibrant corner of Sligo Town. The centre provides audiences in the north west with access to cutting edge contemporary art exhibitions, artist talks, and an extensive, multi-disciplinary programme of visual and performing arts.

This historic building is home to the prestigious Niland Collection, which is highly significant for its focus on the landscape and culture of the north west of Ireland. Art lovers will appreciate the gallery’s focus, as it contains some of the most important and celebrated works by the famous Irish artist Jack B Yeats.

Admission to the gallery spaces is free for all visitors, making world class art highly accessible to the public. For those looking for a more in depth and educational experience, private guided tours of the exhibitions can be easily booked in advance through their website.

VOYA Seaweed Baths

Situated in the popular seaside resort of Strandhill just seven miles from Sligo Town, VOYA Seaweed Baths invites visitors to discover a centuries old Irish wellness tradition. Patrons are treated to the luxury of private, immaculately maintained rooms, each equipped with its own Victorian cast iron bath and personal steam unit.

The experience begins with a gentle steam treatment to open the pores and relax the muscles before you immerse yourself in a warm bath of fresh seawater and organic, hand harvested seaweed. The heat naturally releases the seaweed’s rich, silky essential oils, helping tiredness, muscle tension, and everyday aches slip away.

This luxurious treatment deeply hydrates the skin, supports natural cell regeneration, and leaves the body feeling wonderfully buoyant. Guests finish their hour-long session with an invigorating cold shower, leaving them feeling completely revitalized and refreshed.

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

Get Directions

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.

Find Out More

What Our
Visitors Say

Never Miss
a Moment

Be the first to hear about upcoming events, seasonal openings, and news from Sligo Folk Park. Sign up to our newsletter and never miss a thing.

Instagram