Recommendations for a staycation in Sligo

castletownman

Hello folks,

Looking for some insider/local knowledge as to things to do in Sligo for a weekend stay. Based ourselves in the town itself, and plan to do the Wild Atlantic Way (via car) at some stage. Ben Bulben is on the agenda as well.

As regards socialising, how loose are bars in terms of walk-ins? Would I need to book ahead the more popular spots? Is the town dead since covid? The last time I was in the town was at the National Fleadh a few years ago and I was generally in a haze for my time there, so remember very little, only that it was mighty craic.

I know there are some wonderful seafood restaurants around the coast, but any in particular worth visiting?

Thanks in advance.

mightyreds

Have been up there twice and probably don't have a complete list but will list what we did.

Claimed benbulen, the glencliff horseshoe loop, glencar waterfall, devil's chimney, lake isle inisfree and accompanying lake, Lough key and if you can kayak you can kayak around the castle on the island there, strandhill beach, yeats grave, kilronan castle.

For food, I like yeats restaurant, eala bahn is probably best we were at, coach lane is good, hargadon bros too, hooked for breakfast or lunch.

We booked everywhere except hooked, this was in September this year and august last year, the place was busy both times

BronsonTB

Most in town seem to be allowing booked & walk in. Andserson's & Flip side both do a mean burger. (both central)

If going out towards Ballina, recommend stopping at the 'The Beach Bar' & walking the beach beside it.

If out around Lissadell, 'Ellens' pub in Maugherow is worth a visit (Good food).

If you like Guinness - Connollys pub do a decent pint of it (Beside Ulster Bank) - Advanced booking advised.

Good suggestions above too - If wet, Glencar Waterfall can be in full flow

BTB

castletownman

Aside from the hospitality suggestions above, thanks very much by the way, I have devised a bit of a itinerary for now:

Day 1: Knocknarea/Queen Maeve's grave and Strandhill

Day 2: Ben Bulben and Glencar Waterfall

We will be travelling over and back on each of the other two days (Friday and Monday). 3/3.5 hour one-way trip so unlikely to do much on either day.

Am I missing something must-see to squeeze in?

HeidiHeidi

Seaweed bath after a walk on the beach in Enniscrone!

BronsonTB

Some excellent idea's on this page - https://magnumlady.com/category/travel-2/

daingeanrob

surely a seaweed bath in strandhill? after walks, are ye a couple or a family?

castletownman

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118172718#Comment_118172718

We are a couple in our early 30s

Does anyone know whether we'd have to book places like Blind Tiger or Harp Tavern in advance? Look to be two of the higher recommended places for drinks on Tripadvisor anyway.

Not too fussed about the new restrictions coming into effect this weekend, but any suggestions of a good, lively pub for someone in our age bracket. Both vaccinated with green certs to boot.

jt69er

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118182418#Comment_118182418

No need to pre book anywhere for drinks as far as I know. Blind Tiger, Fiddlers Creek, Burbon Bar all located close to each other along the river should be lively enough.

daingeanrob

yeah, harp is closed, but as suggested above, blind tiger, fiddlers, bourbon, garavogue, andersons all along the river. great that they are so close together and where the mainstream crowd is. i'd personally recommend the swagman for food/pints only around the corner from these.

jt69er

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118183542#Comment_118183542

Harp is not closed.

Carrowmore Megalithic Site just out of town is being considered as a UNESCO World a heritage site.

If you can safely tune the tides, a visit across the vast sand flats to Coney Island is unique, bracing and exciting!

Mullaghmore is a nice seaside/harbour spot.

Maybe it is possible to arrange a joy flight in a light aircraft from Sligo Airport near Strandhill. Years ago I did that.